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Medical aid glossary

Waiting period

A period after joining a scheme during which some or all claims are not paid. A general waiting period applies to all claims, while a condition-specific waiting period applies only to a named pre-existing condition. Both are limited in length by the Medical Schemes Act.

Where you will see this term

Terms like this appear on claims statements, remittance advices, authorisation letters and scheme rules. Understanding the exact wording your scheme used is usually the first step in working out whether a rejected or short-paid claim can be disputed.

Browse the full glossary.

Related terms

Above Threshold Benefit (ATB)Annual limitAuthority to actBeneficiaryBenefit yearCase managerChronic Disease List (CDL)Chronic medication list (formulary)Chronic registrationClaims shortfallClaims statementClinical motivation

Claim review

Not sure what your scheme's wording means for your claim?

Send us the rejection letter, the itemised account and the clinical notes. We translate the scheme's reasoning into plain English and tell you whether the decision stands up against its own rules and the Prescribed Minimum Benefit regulations.

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This page is provided for general information and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Medical scheme rules, benefit structures and regulations change over time — always confirm the position with your scheme’s current member material, your treating practitioner, or an attorney admitted in South Africa.

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