Understand the next step. Ask what it costs.
Access starts with more than an appointment. You need to know what care is appropriate, where it can happen, who will provide it and what you may need to pay.
Start without assuming insurance cover
You can request care as a self-funded patient or tell us about a medical scheme, employer or programme that may help fund it. Benefits and eligibility need to be checked; choosing a funding option is not authorisation or a promise of payment.
Compare scope, not just a headline price
Before agreeing to care, ask for the service fee, separate provider charges, travel or collection fees, tests, medicines, follow-up and exclusions. Confirm the cancellation terms and how any additional costs will be approved.
Tell the team about access barriers
Use your care request to describe practical constraints such as travel, location, time away from work or affordability. The team can discuss available settings and options. Financial assistance, discounts and a particular appointment time are not guaranteed.
Care closer to home, where appropriate
Some steps can happen remotely; others need a clinic, hospital, HealthDesk or supported Doorstep visit. The care setting depends on clinical suitability as well as capacity, location and cost.
A lesson carried forward from 2017
Phiwa Nkambule's Riovic Health work explored direct access and negotiated healthcare prices for people facing out-of-pocket costs. Medtimes carries that access question forward: how can care become easier to understand, reach and continue? Today, clinical coordination and continuing care sit alongside the cost conversation.
Your questions, answered
Is Medtimes medical aid or insurance?
No. Requesting or paying for a service does not provide insurance cover or protection against future medical bills.
Where can I see prices?
Published service or product prices apply to the stated scope. For coordinated care, request an estimate and confirm all relevant provider charges before committing.
Can my employer pay?
Tell the team if you have an employer or programme benefit. The team must confirm eligibility, scope and authorisation with the relevant payer.
Medtimes is not an emergency service. Clinical decisions remain with appropriately registered professionals. Scope, cost and availability must be confirmed for your request.