There are two types of Hospital plans:

1.)  A registered medical aid which contracts with service providers such as Hospitals and Clinics where arrangements exist that the medical aid will settle the accounts or part thereof (if a co-payment exists) directly with the suppliers.  A Hospital plan covers any in-hospital procedures that have been authorised and/or any emergency procedures. Certain chronic medicine benefits may be claimed from this plan. No Out of Hospital benefits (other than certain chronic medicines) are covered on these types of options.

2.)  A Short-Term Insurance Hospital Plan product will pay you a defined benefit if you land up in Hospital. This benefit may only start after a few days or cover you for a fixed or limited period, irrespective of what your hospitals costs are.  The owner of the plan will be required to negotiate costs with the Hospitals and clinics for services provided. You may be accountable to pay a deposit or full amounts to the Hospital or clinic prior to admission.