Over 35? You, too, can now register!

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Good news! Registration on the national electronic vaccination data system (EVDS) has been opened for people aged 35 – 49 years (anyone over the age of 35 can now register if they have not already done so). Registration can be done online on the EVDS website, via WhatsApp on 0600 123 456, or via SMS by dialing *134*832#

Mental Health

DEALING WITH FEELINGS OF LOSS DURING THE PANDEMIC

Many beneficiaries may have lost loved ones due to Covid-19 and/or may be feeling depressed or unhappy due to the current circumstances we find ourselves in.

Grief is typically an emotion that we experience as a result of loss. This pandemic is causing loss and therefore feelings of grief on many levels, such as:

  • freedom of movement;
  • relationships;
  • income;
  • job security;
  • loved ones; and
  • more!

There are no easy answers to overcome these feelings, but fortunately there is a wealth of resources to help us cope. If you are struggling with feelings of grief, consider consulting your General Practitioner (GP) or by visiting the following websites for helpful information and tips:

In addition, working members can also contact their Employee Wellness Programme.

If you feel that your mental health is at risk, whether because of the pandemic or anything else, remember that the Society offers specific benefits to help you in this regard. These are:

  • DAY-TO-DAY BENEFITS: Consultations with Mental Health practitioners;
  • CHRONIC MEDICINE: Medicine for conditions such as Bipolar Mood Disorder, ADHD, Alzheimer Disease and Depression; and
  • HOSPITAL BENEFITS: Psychiatric hospitalisation.

Please note that specific benefit limits and authorisation conditions apply to the above benefits – refer to the 2021 Member Guide for more information, or read about these under Benefits on the Society’s website.

DISCHEM: HELP DURING THE CURRENT UNREST AND LOOTING

Some Dischem operations have had to be closed due to the unrest and looting in certain parts of our country. You can view a list of closed stores here. (This list is dynamic, as Dischem is closing stores whenever there is a threat to their staff and/or customers, and reopening again when deemed appropriate).

Please, remember that you are able to use any Dischem store or courier, even for repeat prescriptions, as your profile is accessible via Dischem’s shared database.

Stay healthy; stay safe!

Stanley Mathonzi

PRINCIPAL OFFICER