I was diagnosed with stage IV cancer last year. I had to upgrade the plan I was on, as the oncology benefit wouldn't have covered everything (a cost of approx R10k extra pa). The first regime I was on did not work, as Bonitas refused to pay for Rituximab/MabThera - the superior ingredient in chemo that actually heals you. The doctors & oncologist have sent numerous appeals, motivational letters & justifications for my treatment, but to no avail. I've been shunned around for the past month now, having to go for different tests every other week, and they still haven't authorised my 2nd batch of chemotherapy. I was contacted by someone from Bonitas last week, who said that I should upgrade to the most expensive plan (an extra R40k pa) before they will authorise the MabThera, and then I must still pay a 10% co-payment (approx R20-R40k out of my own pocket) for the chemo! My & my doctor's application for the MabThera to be Ex Gratia is also ignored. They don't have an Ex Gratia application form like other medical aids, you have to send them an e-mail or fax. Bonitas would rather have a person die, than heal them and get their monthly contributions for the next 50 years.
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