What is the HealthCard?

• A Visa Electron Debit Card issued by Mercantile Bank Ltd that facilitates payment of your out-of-hospital medical expenses at medical service providers such as GPs, dentist, specialists, pharmacies, etc
• You deposit funds into the card, earn interest and pay for medical expenses at point of sale

Who qualifies for a HealthCard?

• Any person (18 years or older) may apply for the HealthCard
• Any person who has the need to save funds specifically for medical expense not covered by the medical scheme
• Any person who cannot afford a medical aid, but has the need to provide for medical emergencies

• Immediately pay the medical service provider, subject to funds available in your account
• Bargaining power for discounts because the payments are considered cash transactions. Paying the service provider with an electronic card is easier, more convenient and safer than carrying cash
• Accumulated funds provide immediate financial relief when you incur unexpected medical expenses
• Provision can be made to save for shortfalls, goods and services not covered by a medical aid or when benefits are depleted
• Accumulated funds may be withdrawn at year-end provided R200 is retained to keep the card active

• A card may not be used successfully without contacting the call centre to verify receipt and activation of the card
• The cardholder decides on the amount to be deposited into the account on a monthly basis (minimum R100)
• The card can then be presented as payment at any medical services provider, provided they have electronic point-of-sale facilities
• Transactions are verified electronically and processed if sufficient funds are available in the account