The Minister of Health gave an update on 3 January 2021 regarding South Africa's plans to procure and distribute the COVID-19 vaccine. The Minister further indicated that South Africa will be procuring an initial quota of the vaccine through COVAX (a multi-national body procuring the vaccine on behalf of 190 countries) which is expected to reach South Africa by April 2021 if not sooner.

COVID-19 treatment, including the vaccine, is considered a PMB (Prescribed Minimum Benefit) and we therefore assure you that Bonitas Medical Fund will cover the cost of the vaccine and clinically-approved treatment which members currently require to manage the COVID-19 infection.

At this stage, medical schemes are not able to procure the vaccines for themselves directly, but we are keeping abreast of the government's progress of vaccine procurement-and are planning to distribute it to our valued members as quickly as possible.

We are committed to ensuring that our members receive the treatment they need. It is critical that we continue with all preventative measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones from contracting COVID-19.