GEMS
Government Employees Medical Scheme - Healthcare for public servants
GEMS (Government Employees Medical Scheme) is South Africa's largest restricted medical scheme with over 2 million beneficiaries, exclusively serving government employees and their dependants.
As a restricted scheme, GEMS offers competitive rates due to group bargaining power and employer subsidies. Government employees receive a significant medical aid subsidy, making GEMS an affordable choice for public sector workers.
Who Can Join GEMS?
GEMS is a restricted scheme - only government employees and their dependants can join. This includes national and provincial government departments, public entities, and certain state institutions. Private sector employees cannot join GEMS.
At a Glance
2M+
Beneficiaries
5
Plan Options
From R1,800
Monthly
Subsidised
By Employer
GEMS Plan Options
Emerald Value
R1,800
per month (before subsidy)
Hospital Cover
PMB hospitals + network
Day-to-Day
Limited day-to-day
Ruby
R2,400
per month (before subsidy)
Hospital Cover
Private hospitals with co-pay
Day-to-Day
Savings account
Onyx
R2,800
per month (before subsidy)
Hospital Cover
Unlimited private hospitals
Day-to-Day
Comprehensive day-to-day
Sapphire
R4,200
per month (before subsidy)
Hospital Cover
Unlimited - any provider
Day-to-Day
Full benefits
Government Subsidy
As a government employee, you receive a substantial medical aid subsidy from your employer. The exact amount depends on:
Your Salary Level
Higher salary levels typically receive higher subsidy amounts.
Number of Dependants
More dependants means a higher subsidy to help cover family costs.
Plan Selected
Subsidy covers a percentage of your chosen plan's premium.
Tip: Check with your HR department for exact subsidy amounts based on your circumstances.
Plan Comparison
| Plan | Hospital | Day-to-Day | Chronic | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sapphire | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Maximum cover needed |
| Onyx | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | Comprehensive with value |
| Ruby | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Balanced cover & cost |
| Beryl | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Budget-conscious |
| Emerald Value | ★★☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Lowest cost option |
Why Choose GEMS?
Employer Subsidy
Significant portion of your premium is paid by government.
Largest Restricted Scheme
Over 2 million beneficiaries - strong buying power.
Competitive Rates
Group negotiating power keeps premiums competitive.
Range of Options
From entry-level to premium - plan for every budget.
Payroll Deduction
Premiums deducted automatically from your salary.
Financial Stability
Government-backed scheme with strong reserves.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Significant employer subsidy
- Competitive premium rates
- Automatic payroll deduction
- Strong chronic medication cover
- Large member base
- Financial stability
Cons
- Only for government employees
- Some plans have network restrictions
- Co-payments on lower plans
- Less flexible than open schemes
- Annual increases still apply
How to Join
Confirm Eligibility
Verify you're a government employee eligible for GEMS membership.
Check Your Subsidy
Contact your HR department to understand your subsidy amount.
Choose a Plan
Compare Sapphire, Onyx, Ruby, Beryl or Emerald based on needs and budget.
Apply via HR or GEMS
Submit your application through your department's HR or directly to GEMS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join GEMS if I'm not a government employee?
No, GEMS is a restricted scheme exclusively for government employees and their dependants. Private sector workers should consider open medical schemes like Discovery, Bonitas, or Momentum.
How much does the government subsidise?
The subsidy varies based on your salary level and number of dependants. It can cover a significant portion of your premium. Check with your HR for exact amounts.
What happens if I leave government service?
You have 3 months to transfer to an open medical scheme without waiting periods. After that, standard waiting periods apply. Retirees can remain on GEMS.
Can I change plans during the year?
You can upgrade anytime. Downgrades are typically only possible during the annual option change period (usually October/November for January start).
Important Information
- • GEMS is administered by Metropolitan Health and registered with the Council for Medical Schemes.
- • Premiums shown are before employer subsidy - your actual cost will be lower.
- • Eligibility is restricted to government employees and their dependants.
- • New employees have 3 months to join GEMS without waiting periods.