Netcare Medical Scheme
ADHD and Ritalin not covered by chronic benefits

I am a lifelong sufferer of ADHD. I went to my Doctor recently as I was feeling depressed and felt like I was unable to cope. My Doctor prescribed Ritalin to me and this has had an astounding effect on me. The positive effect of the Ritalin on my daily life can not be measured. I am far more productive and no longer suffering from my bouts of depression.

I contacted the Netcare Medical Scheme's call center in order to enquire as to how I could register my condition under the chronic benefits. I was told that ADHD was not recognized, nor covered under the chronic benefits. And thus I could not register, nor claim for treatment under chronic benefits. I was informed that I could use my medical savings account to purchase Ritalin. However, this would exhaust my medical savings account in a matter of months.

What annoys me is that depression is covered on chronic benefits. And members receiving benefits for depression receive the same, if not more, financial benefit in order to cover their treatment. However treating depression caused by ADHD, and the ADHD itself, in the correct way is not covered.

Company: Netcare Medical Scheme
Country: South Africa
City: National

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