Why is it important to manage your membership?

As a member, you need to make sure that you follow the Scheme's Rules and procedures so that you can get the most from your membership.

Following the terms and conditions of your GEMS membership

It is important to follow the Scheme Rules and not abuse the benefits of the Scheme as this will negatively affect contributions for all members.

Who can join GEMS?

You can join GEMS if you are employed in or are a pensioner of:

• A National Department listed in Schedule 1 of the Public Service Act;
• A Provincial Department listed in Schedule 2 of the Public Service Act;
• A Provincial Administration listed in Schedule 2 of the Public Service Act;
• Organisational components listed in Schedule 3 of the Public Service Act; or
• You belong to any employer group approved by the Scheme. A list of these employers is available in the Scheme Rules as Annexure A.

Rule 6 of the Scheme Rules, explains who can become a GEMS member. The Public Service Act is available on the Department of Public Service and Administration website at http://www.dpsa.gov.za/.

Membership cards and membership certificates

• We issue a membership card to every Principal Member. If the member has registered dependants, we also issue a card to each adult dependant.
• We will issue extra cards for dependants should you request it.
• Only you and your registered dependants may use your membership card. It is illegal to give your membership card to someone who is not your registered dependant.
• Neither you nor your dependants are allowed to use your membership card if you leave the Scheme or are no longer
  eligible to be a GEMS member. We willnot pay claims for any healthcare services that you or a dependant received after the date that you left the Scheme.
• If you cancel your membership, GEMS will send a membership certificate to you.
• If you remove a dependant, GEMS will issue a new membership card to you.
• Please use your membership number as a reference on all correspondence with the Scheme to ensure that we can help you quickly and correctly.
• You must show your membership card to healthcare service providers (for example, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, specialists and hospitals) when you visit them.

Rule 10 of the Scheme Rules, gives you information about the membership card and the membership certificate.

Remember: You are not allowed to be a member or a registered dependant of more than one medical scheme at the same time.

You can obtain the Scheme rules on the GEMS website at www.gems.gov.za.