Discovery Health Adds Depression Benefit to Flexicare 2027

In Short

Discovery Health is adding a new mental health benefit to its Flexicare Plus health insurance offering.

From 2027, eligible Flexicare Plus members diagnosed with depression will get an extra R1,500 in their FlexiFund for antidepressant medicines. They will also get 12 months of free access to SilverCloud by Amwell.

The 2027 benefit enhancements are subject to approval from the Council for Medical Schemes.

What Happened: How Flexicare Plus Adds Depression Support

Discovery Health said Flexicare Plus is a private health insurance offering administered by Discovery Health and underwritten by Auto & General.

The new primary healthcare mental health benefit is aimed at Flexicare Plus members who are diagnosed with depression.

Discovery Health said the additional R1,500 will be added to members’ FlexiFund. It described FlexiFund as “akin to a healthcare benefit wallet”, meaning members get a defined amount of cover each year for specific healthcare expenses.

The update also adds access to SilverCloud by Amwell. Discovery Health described SilverCloud as an internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy programme, which provides mental health guidance and support through online modules and exercises.

Maria Makhabane, Chief Growth Officer at Discovery Health, said: “Mental health conditions are now a core component of healthcare demand, on individuals, families and the healthcare system, particularly as prevalence rises among younger adults who may not be able to afford medical aid cover.” She added that the benefit is meant to provide “more affordable, integrated support earlier.”

Why It Matters: Benefits, Claims Data, And Demand

Discovery Health said Flexicare Plus already provides cover for 27 chronic conditions, including funding for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

It said the new mental health benefit addresses an “increasingly important area of need”, and supports both physical and mental wellbeing.

The company also pointed to mental health demand indicators. It cited data from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) stating that one in three South Africans currently lives with a mental illness or will experience one during their lifetime.

Discovery Health also referenced its HealthTrend26 report, which draws on mental health statistics from 2015 to 2025. It said the report found that depression accounted for 63% of all mental health claims.