Subscription rates
The current subscription rates for South Africa are available in PDF format. To download a copy, please use the link on the right hand side or click here.
Frequently asked questions
If you have any questions about these subscription rates, please check the list of common queries below. If your question does not appear in this list, or if your specialty is missing from the subscription rates document, please contact SAMA on (012) 481 2070 (0800 225 677 toll free).
What has prompted the new subscription rate increase?
The cost of clinical negligence claims in South Africa is rising alarmingly. We have also seen an increase in the number of claims brought against members. In the last two years (2009 – 2010) we have seen the cost of reported claims more than double. We have tracked this carefully for some time, but the increase in the value of reported claims in the last six months of 2010 was startlingly high, particularly for the cases involving the most serious damage. As a result we have had to increase our subscription rates for members. This will have the greatest impact on doctors in higher-risk categories.
How do you set subscriptions rates?
As a not for profit organisation, we always try to ensure our subscriptions are fair and reflect the risk. We have no other motivation when setting subscriptions than to ensure our members’ needs are met. Our rates are calculated carefully and are based on independent actuarial advice.
When do the new rates take effect?
Members who renew after 1 April 2011 will be subject to the new rates. Please remember that it is essential that you pay the correct subscription for the work you are doing to ensure that you are fully protected in the event of a claim.
Why are the increases in subscription rates happening now?
There is often a significant period of time between an incident occurring and a claim for negligence being brought and every year the cost of settling claims increases. The increase you are seeing now is designed to protect your interests long in to the future.
What will happen if the costs of claims continue to increase?
Please be assured of MPS’s strong commitment to the medical profession in South Africa. We have operated in South Africa for more than fifty years and plan to be here for many more. We will closely monitor the situation regarding the increasing costs of claims, and endeavour to keep our members regularly informed. We will be engaging with stakeholders to explore opportunities to address this growing problem, which we are committed to tackling.
Why have subscriptions increased for obstetricians?
The cost of settling claims where children are damaged at birth is soaring. The cost of funding life time care packages, inherent in these types of claims, has grown substantially and we have had to reflect this in our subscription increases for obstetricians.
Why have subscriptions increased for paediatricians who undertake neonatal care?
Paediatricians who undertake any neonatal care have moved from the low to medium risk category. The change reflects the significant increase in the cost of compensation awards made to young children harmed by negligent treatment and specifically the substantial cost of funding life time care packages.
Why have subscriptions increased for neurosurgeons and orthopaedic surgeons performing spinal surgery?
The cost of settling claims for patients who suffer serious neurological damage has grown significantly, largely because if the substantial cost of funding life time care packages. We have had to reflect this experience in our subscriptions increase for neurosurgeons and as well orthopaedic surgeons undertaking spinal surgery.
Who should I contact if I have any queries about subscriptions and my membership?
For questions about your subscriptions rates please contact:
South African Medical Association (SAMA)
Tel: (012) 481 2070
Fax: (012) 481 2061
Toll free: 0800 225 677
Email: mps@samedical.org
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