The Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) has become a cornerstone of healthcare provision for public service employees in South Africa. Its development marked a significant moment in healthcare policy, as it was introduced with a firm commitment to equity and affordability, ensuring public sector employees have comprehensive healthcare coverage. Here’s an in-depth look at GEMS, its origins, mission, and what it offers.
- Is GEMS for government employees only?
- How much is the government subsidy on GEMS medical Aid?
- Who is eligible for GEMS?
- Can any person join GEMS medical aid?
- How do I find out if I qualify for GEMS?
- Can I stay on GEMS if I resign?
- Does GEMS cover abortion?
GEMS was officially registered on January 1, 2005, but its story began in 2002 when the Cabinet approved a framework policy to create a restricted medical scheme. This framework, crafted by a collaboration of several government departments—including Public Service and Administration, National Treasury, Health, Education, Correctional Services, and SAPS—focused on three guiding principles: equity, efficiency, and differentiation.
- Equity: All employees should have equal access to basic healthcare benefits under fair remuneration structures, tailored to be affordable.
- Efficiency: Emphasis was placed on cost-effective delivery of healthcare benefits.
- Differentiation: Employees seeking broader coverage can access enhanced benefits, based on their needs.
This scheme represents the government’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable healthcare, positioning itself as an employer that values the well-being of its workforce.
Who is GEMS?
GEMS is dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of South Africa’s government employees. It offers six benefit options designed to cater to various healthcare needs and financial capabilities:
- Tanzanite One
- Beryl
- Ruby
- Emerald Value
- Emerald
- Onyx
The overarching goal of GEMS is to enable public service employees and their families to access quality healthcare at competitive rates. As of now, nearly two million beneficiaries are enrolled, showcasing the scheme’s success and impact on the healthcare landscape.
GEMS: Supporting Public Health
GEMS has had a significant influence on both public and private healthcare sectors. Its implementation has eased the burden on public healthcare facilities by enrolling members who would otherwise rely on state resources. By incorporating government employees into a medical scheme environment, GEMS not only reduces patient loads in public hospitals but also generates additional revenue streams for healthcare facilities through the Tanzanite One option. This initiative creates a synergy with ongoing efforts by the Department of Health, including National Health Insurance.
The expansion of medical scheme beneficiaries helps to:
- Decrease pressure on public healthcare resources.
- Drive revenue in the private healthcare sector.
- Promote partnerships that enhance overall healthcare delivery.
Mission and Vision
Mission
GEMS aims to provide all members with equitable access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare, prioritizing their well-being.
Vision
The scheme envisions being an excellent, sustainable, and transformative medical scheme, leading advancements in the healthcare industry and aligning with universal healthcare principles.
Core Values and Commitments
GEMS is driven by a set of core values, ensuring members receive reliable, high-quality service.
1. Collaboration
GEMS fosters a culture of collaboration, keeping members well-informed about activities and changes in services. The scheme communicates openly, particularly when addressing members’ healthcare needs.
2. Member Value
The organization values dependability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. It is committed to retaining members, adapting to their evolving needs, and maintaining active engagement.
3. Excellence
Aiming for high performance, GEMS consistently delivers on its goals and strives to exceed member expectations.
4. Innovation
The scheme encourages innovative thinking, cost-control strategies, and practical risk-taking to enhance service delivery. Continuous improvement remains a priority.
5. Integrity
Trustworthiness and professionalism define GEMS. It stands firmly against fraud and corruption, fosters transparency, and takes responsibility for its actions. The scheme also actively supports the communities it serves.
How to Contact GEMS
For any inquiries or support, GEMS provides various contact options:
Need Information or Confused about Something ?
Ask a Question- General Enquiries:
- Call: 086 000 4367 (Mon-Fri: 08h00 – 17h00, Sat: 08h00 – 12h00)
- Email: enquiries@gems.gov.za
- Post: Private Bag X782, CPT, 8000
- Fax: 086 100 4367
- Emergency Number: 080 044 4367 (24/7)
- Healthcare Provider Enquiries: 086 043 6777 (Mon-Fri: 09h00 – 16h00)
- Confidential Fraud Hotline: 080 021 2202
- Email: gems@thehotline.co.za (Mon-Fri: 09h00 – 16h00)
- HIV/AIDS Support: 086 043 6736
- Send a ‘please call me’ to 083 843 6764
Sponsored Guide
Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)
If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.
📌 What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.
NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:
- Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
- Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.
✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?
To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
- Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).
📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS
NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.
If you’re studying:
- Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
- Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.
📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application
When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
- Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
- Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
- Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).
🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online
Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)
-
Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
-
Create an Account
- Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
- You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
- Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
-
Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
-
Fill in Your Personal Details
- Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Provide household income information and living arrangements.
-
Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
-
Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
-
Track Your Application
- Log in regularly to check your application status.
- You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.
🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)
- Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
- Disbursement: After registration and approval
Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.
💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?
NSFAS funding typically includes:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation (if living away from home)
- Meals and transport
- Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)
For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).
🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment
Repayments are:
- Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
- Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
- Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.
You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.
🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application
If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
- If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
- Upload any missing or corrected documents.
- Provide a clear explanation or motivation.
📱 NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM)
- Twitter: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: NSFAS
📝 Final Tips Before Applying
- Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
- Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
- Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
- Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.
By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.