One of the benefits of youth is the sense of invulnerability that accompanies it, but this can be misleading. While most young adults would not consider themselves at risk of serious health issues, according to Bestmed Medical Scheme, avoiding or delaying preventive care and screenings is not advisable, as health problems can arise at any age.
This is certainly true in South Africa, where a significant number of youths face chronic conditions. Among the biggest challenges faced is the high prevalence of intestinal infectious diseases, tuberculosis and HIV, as well as respiratory system diseases led by influenza and pneumonia.
“However, it is not only physical wellbeing that can be a challenge for the youth, but poor mental health as well. There is also a direct correlation between physical health and mental health, and both need to be managed actively,” says Weatherton Nyambeu, Direct Sales Manager at Bestmed. “With this in mind, and as we look to celebrate Youth Month this June, it is imperative to educate young adults on the importance of regular check-ups, vaccinations, mental health support and preventive screenings. In fact, such an approach is key to fostering a generation that values their wellbeing. It is necessary to remind them that youth is no guarantee of health. For this reason, young people should investigate their options for medical care as soon as possible, as well as gain a clear understanding about how to utilise these options effectively.”
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Recent studies indicate that while many young adults join medical schemes, a surprising number still lack awareness about how to utilise their benefits effectively.
“Most medical aids provide a number of plans to choose from and as such, are able to meet the needs of young people regardless of the diversity in their finances or in their expectations related to their healthcare,” says Nyambeu. “Some of the most popular choices are savings plans, hospital plans and income-based or network plans.”
Hospital plans generally cover the costs of hospital admission, fees for specialists, medication administered in the hospital and necessary procedures performed during your stay. Depending on your need for out-of-hospital benefits, such as GP or specialist consultations, dentistry, optometry and/or over-the-counter medicine, you could choose a plan that offers medical savings or day-to-day benefits, which will cover these additional costs.
“It is worth noting that most schemes also offer a range of preventative care benefits to help you detect medical conditions early. Such benefits can, for example, include flu injections, blood glucose and pressure tests, mammograms, pap smears and prostate screenings, paid for by the Scheme and not from your savings,” adds Nyambeu.
In addition to the above, you may also have access to travel vaccines, female contraceptives, human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccinations for women up to 26 years old, cholesterol, body mass index and HIV screenings, depending on the scheme you select.
“From a Bestmed perspective, we have a track record of providing young adult members with access to a network of healthcare specialists, wellness benefits and cost-effective healthcare coverage options. All our benefit options offer young South Africans significant benefits for preventative healthcare,” says Nyambeu.
“Regrettably, youth does not always equate to good health, but early detection can help avoid more severe health problems later on. Indeed, prioritising your health is one of the most crucial decisions you can make. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, mental health support and preventive screenings are essential in nurturing a generation that prioritises their wellbeing,” Nyambeu concludes.
