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Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS)

Contact Details

Postal Private Bag X782, Cape Town, 8000
Physical Vutomi House, 124 Mercy Avenue, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria, 0010
Tel 0860 00 4367
Web www.gems.gov.za

Overview

The beginning of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) was a historic moment when, in 2002, the Cabinet approved a framework policy on a restricted (closed) medical scheme for further development by an interdepartmental working group (Departments of Public Service and Administration, National Treasury, Health, Education, Correctional Services and SAPS).

The approved framework policy centred on the principles of equity, efficiency and differentiation: equity, where employees have equal access to the most extensive set of equal basic benefits under equitable remuneration structures, subject to affordability; efficiency, regarding the costs and delivery of benefits; differentiation, where employees choosing more extensive cover have equal access to higher benefits subject to their needs; and government's commitment to an equitable and affordable medical scheme.

The Cabinet gave the development and implementation of GEMS intense consideration, relying on substantial research and data analyses. The implementation of GEMS is a positive step that positions government as an employer of choice that truly cares for the health and wellbeing of its employees.

GEMS was registered on 1 January 2005 specifically to meet the healthcare needs of government employees. It offers six excellent healthcare benefit options, namely Tanzanite One, Beryl, Ruby, Emerald Value, Emerald and Onyx. Its goal is to help public service employees and their families to get the best possible healthcare at the most affordable rate.

Overseeing Department/Entity

The information in this directory is compiled from various sources and is subject to continual change. If you notice any errors or omissions, contact us so that we may correct them.

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