Maisha launches low-cost medical aid scheme

Sunday Mail Correspondent

Leading health insurer, Maisha Health Fund has launched a new ultra-low-cost medical aid scheme, in a move that is set to make healthcare affordable to low-income earners.

The health cover – MaishaCare – will offer primary care from as little as US$5 per month to allow customers access to a network of doctors, emergency procedures and treatment for non-chronic conditions.

Maisha Health, which is owned by EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited, said the medical aid cover will cater for physical consultations, prescription drugs, online consultations through Dial-a-Doc, access to private emergency rooms, Government and mission hospitals, road ambulance, and health tips.

In addition, the service will also provide health tips and ambulance cover through a partnership with MARS and Maisha Health.

Speaking at the launch, EcoCash Holdings chief executive officer, Mr Eddie Chibi said:

“Access to basic health care is a major necessity for all Zimbabweans and to augment our current services, we have created this bundle that will allow one to get consultation remotely on their mobile phone.

“Where there is need for evacuation to a health care centre, we will provide a road ambulance through MARS.”

Monthly premiums of US$5 are payable through the EcoCash USD wallet.

Alternatively, one can pay through a bank deposit or at the nearest Econet Shop.

The medical aid will be accepted at various council, Government, mission hospitals and selected private health care service providers nationwide.

In cases of medical emergencies, MARS Ambulances or affiliate ambulances will ferry the patient to the nearest health care centre.

Maisha Health Fund head and chief life officer, Mr Godwin Mashiri said in addition to treatment, the group has gone a step further to promote healthy living through health tips, leveraging on the existing Maisha Health Tips.

“We want to promote disease prevention and wellness so that we reduce the need for expensive treatment on people’s already depressed incomes,” he said.

“The marginalised groups in our society suffer the most when the cost of living and health care goes up.

“Our product is looking at bridging the gap between current private health assistance and public health provision by providing basic critical care at agreed tariffs through friendly service providers.

“In addition, our members will be covered to get hospital cash back, prescription drugs and more.”

Maisha Health Fund is a provider of tailor-made medical insurance services in Zimbabwe, offering medical cover to corporates, colleges, schools, and individuals.