Medshield Medical Scheme 2026 Review
Mid-tier open scheme with a 10-plan range from MediCurve at R1,821 to PremiumPlus at R9,489. 7.5% weighted increase for 2026 with 71.6% of members on a 7% increase. New 2026 benefits: continuous glucose monitoring, annual mammograms from age 30.
Cheapest plan
MediCurve
From (main member)
R1,821
2026 increase
7.5% (71.6% of members get 7%)
Network
Medshield Choice DSP
Gym benefit
Planet Fitness / Virgin Active subsidy
New 2026 benefits
Continuous glucose monitoring
2026 Medshield plan range
| Plan | Main member | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MediCurve | R1,821 | Cheapest entry network plan |
| MediPhila | R2,145 | Network with basic day-to-day |
| MediValue Compact | R2,907 | Network hospital + day-to-day |
| MediValue Prime | R3,207 | Any-hospital MediValue |
| MediCore | R4,278 | Pure hospital plan |
| MediPlus Compact | R4,938 | Network + chronic + dental |
| MediSaver | R5,376 | Hospital + MSA |
| MediPlus Prime | R5,436 | Any-hospital MediPlus |
| MediBonus | R9,015 | Comprehensive with bonus benefit |
| PremiumPlus | R9,489 | Top tier |
Source: Medshield 2026 product suite launch; medicalaid.com Medshield 2026 pages.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Medshield cost in 2026?+
Medshield MediCurve is the cheapest plan at R1,821/month for the main member. The full range runs from R1,821 to R9,489 for top-tier PremiumPlus. The 2026 weighted average increase is 7.5%, with 71.6% of members on a 7% increase. Effective 1 January 2026.
What new benefits did Medshield add for 2026?+
Continuous Glucose Monitoring for diabetics, annual mammograms from age 30 (funded from risk), annual eye tests funded from risk, expanded virtual GP care, and a Hospital-at-Home benefit on selected plans. The product suite naming was also rationalised from the older MediBonus/MediValue Plus structure.
What is the Medshield gym benefit?+
Richer Medshield plans subsidise access to Planet Fitness and Virgin Active gyms. The exact 2026 rand value is not publicly disclosed and varies by plan tier. Available on MediPlus, MediBonus and PremiumPlus.
Is Medshield a good medical aid?+
Medshield is a mid-tier open scheme with consistent service ratings. Strengths: predictable annual increases (7% modal), broad benefit range, dedicated Compact (network) and Prime (any-hospital) options on each tier. Trade-offs: not as large as Discovery or Bonitas, so less hospital-tariff negotiating power; the lower plans use restricted networks with 30-40% co-pay for voluntary non-DSP admissions.
Important
This article is for general information only and is not financial advice. Figures and rules change frequently — always verify with the official source before acting.