Based on recent customer reviews, Polmed is facing significant dissatisfaction from long-standing members who feel let down during critical medical situations. Customers consistently mention rejected claims, particularly under the Aquarium package, where diagnostic imaging like X-rays and sonars are reportedly denied. A recurring theme is prolonged authorisation delays for procedures such as prostheses and surgeries, with members describing repeated follow-ups yielding only query numbers. Concerns around transparency, inconsistent benefit communication, partial payments leaving unexpected shortfalls, and unresponsive call centre support feature prominently across the feedback received.
TrustIndex
2.4
Ranking
#60
in Health & Medical
NPS Score
-39
Recommended: Unlikely
Jul '25 - Jun '26
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Share Your Experience1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am deeply aggrieved by our so called medical aid polmed they are really putting us in danger health wise and financially because they are saying we should pay for X rays i believe thats is wrong because we dont choose to go to x rays the doctor refers us for x rays because he or she genuinely sees a problem if they say pay for it without even giving us ample time to prepare what do they think. I feel they are selfish and self centered because they only looking out for their pockets. Now I have to pay for something that was supposed to be covered by them which is totally wrong before implementing things there should be sufficient time given to employees so information reaches them be careful ****mers are nt only outside but in companies we believe in.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am deeply aggrieved by our so called medical aid polmed they are really putting us in danger health wise and financially because they are saying we should pay for X rays i believe thats is wrong because we dont choose to go to x rays the doctor refers us for x rays because he or she genuinely sees a problem if they say pay for it without even giving us ample time to prepare what do they think. I feel they are selfish and self centered because they only looking out for their pockets. Now I have to pay for something that was supposed to be covered by them which is totally wrong before implementing things there should be sufficient time given to employees so information reaches them be careful ****mers are nt only outside but in companies we believe in.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
*"Putrid"* Monday: ER. Back screaming. Blood not stopping. Melomed: "Come back tomorrow." Tuesday, 08:30. Gynae sees me. Brilliant. Kind. "Admit her. She needs tests." Then 7.5 hours of hell. Polmed: "New member. Not approved." Back and forth. Calls. Emails. My body waiting. Bleeding. They finally let me in. Now they know what's wrong. Treatment = Life. But Polmed's quiet again. "Underwriters deciding." Deciding my life. Every hour matters. Every delay kills. Polmed, your service is putrid. Disgusting. I am not a file. I am alive.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
*"Putrid"* Monday: ER. Back screaming. Blood not stopping. Melomed: "Come back tomorrow." Tuesday, 08:30. Gynae sees me. Brilliant. Kind. "Admit her. She needs tests." Then 7.5 hours of hell. Polmed: "New member. Not approved." Back and forth. Calls. Emails. My body waiting. Bleeding. They finally let me in. Now they know what's wrong. Treatment = Life. But Polmed's quiet again. "Underwriters deciding." Deciding my life. Every hour matters. Every delay kills. Polmed, your service is putrid. Disgusting. I am not a file. I am alive.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
We have been running around trying to get my dad's prosthetic legs to be reviewed since 28 Feb 2024. I have been told the request is still being reviewed by the clinical team for the past 2 years. No one is giving us any feedback . We go to the polmed offices we are told about making appointments but no one responds to our emails I dont know where the "Treating Customers Fairley " policy is when my dad has been on a wheelchair for the past 2 years but no one cares to give us feedback.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
We have been running around trying to get my dad's prosthetic legs to be reviewed since 28 Feb 2024. I have been told the request is still being reviewed by the clinical team for the past 2 years. No one is giving us any feedback . We go to the polmed offices we are told about making appointments but no one responds to our emails I dont know where the "Treating Customers Fairley " policy is when my dad has been on a wheelchair for the past 2 years but no one cares to give us feedback.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
My recent experience with POLMED has raised serious concerns about the practical value of its benefits, particularly under the Aquarium package. Despite a doctor’s clear recommendation for diagnostic imaging (X-rays and an ultrasound) following my daughter’s ankle injury, the claim was declined. The reason provided was that the diagnosis — classified as a sprain — did not meet the criteria for a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition. As a result, essential radiology services were not covered. This approach places members in a difficult position, where access to necessary medical investigations depends less on clinical judgment and more on whether a condition fits a predefined administrative category. It is concerning that even when a healthcare professional identifies the need for further examination, coverage may still be denied based on coding technicalities. Furthermore, the suggestion that the diagnosis could be amended for reassessment — without any guarantee of payment — highlights an underlying issue: members may be required to navigate complex administrative processes rather than receive straightforward support during medical situations. A medical scheme should provide reassurance and assistance when it is needed most. Unfortunately, this experience reflects a gap between expected support and actual service delivery. Prospective members should carefully evaluate the limitations of the benefit structure and consider whether it aligns with their expectations for accessible and responsive healthcare coverage.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
My recent experience with POLMED has raised serious concerns about the practical value of its benefits, particularly under the Aquarium package. Despite a doctor’s clear recommendation for diagnostic imaging (X-rays and an ultrasound) following my daughter’s ankle injury, the claim was declined. The reason provided was that the diagnosis — classified as a sprain — did not meet the criteria for a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition. As a result, essential radiology services were not covered. This approach places members in a difficult position, where access to necessary medical investigations depends less on clinical judgment and more on whether a condition fits a predefined administrative category. It is concerning that even when a healthcare professional identifies the need for further examination, coverage may still be denied based on coding technicalities. Furthermore, the suggestion that the diagnosis could be amended for reassessment — without any guarantee of payment — highlights an underlying issue: members may be required to navigate complex administrative processes rather than receive straightforward support during medical situations. A medical scheme should provide reassurance and assistance when it is needed most. Unfortunately, this experience reflects a gap between expected support and actual service delivery. Prospective members should carefully evaluate the limitations of the benefit structure and consider whether it aligns with their expectations for accessible and responsive healthcare coverage.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am extremely disappointed in how POLMED Medical Scheme has deteriorated over the years, particularly regarding the so-called “Aquarium Package.” Recently, my daughter injured her ankle, and we consulted a doctor who, out of medical concern, referred her for X-rays and a sonar. This was not a decision I made lightly or without professional guidance. However, to my shock, POLMED rejected the claim, stating that under the Aquarium Package, X-rays and sonars are only covered in life-threatening situations. This raises serious concerns. Since when are diagnostic tools like X-rays and sonars reserved only for life-threatening cases? How are members expected to properly diagnose injuries before they become critical? The logic behind such a policy is deeply flawed and, frankly, alarming. It makes one question the competence of those responsible for these decisions. I am also aware of colleagues whose children faced genuinely life-threatening medical emergencies, yet POLMED failed to cover even a reasonable portion of their treatment costs—despite prior authorization being granted. This inconsistency further erodes trust in the scheme. If POLMED no longer intends to provide the level of cover previously associated with the Aquarium Package, then they should be transparent about it. Members deserve clear communication regarding benefit changes. In the past, X-rays and sonars were covered—what has changed, and why were members not properly informed? With recent reports about challenges facing schemes like Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS), one cannot help but wonder whether POLMED is facing similar internal issues. Given the broader concerns around mismanagement and *******ion in various sectors, these experiences only add to growing suspicion and frustration. After more than 20 years of loyalty, I can confidently say: this is not the POLMED we once trusted.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am extremely disappointed in how POLMED Medical Scheme has deteriorated over the years, particularly regarding the so-called “Aquarium Package.” Recently, my daughter injured her ankle, and we consulted a doctor who, out of medical concern, referred her for X-rays and a sonar. This was not a decision I made lightly or without professional guidance. However, to my shock, POLMED rejected the claim, stating that under the Aquarium Package, X-rays and sonars are only covered in life-threatening situations. This raises serious concerns. Since when are diagnostic tools like X-rays and sonars reserved only for life-threatening cases? How are members expected to properly diagnose injuries before they become critical? The logic behind such a policy is deeply flawed and, frankly, alarming. It makes one question the competence of those responsible for these decisions. I am also aware of colleagues whose children faced genuinely life-threatening medical emergencies, yet POLMED failed to cover even a reasonable portion of their treatment costs—despite prior authorization being granted. This inconsistency further erodes trust in the scheme. If POLMED no longer intends to provide the level of cover previously associated with the Aquarium Package, then they should be transparent about it. Members deserve clear communication regarding benefit changes. In the past, X-rays and sonars were covered—what has changed, and why were members not properly informed? With recent reports about challenges facing schemes like Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS), one cannot help but wonder whether POLMED is facing similar internal issues. Given the broader concerns around mismanagement and *******ion in various sectors, these experiences only add to growing suspicion and frustration. After more than 20 years of loyalty, I can confidently say: this is not the POLMED we once trusted.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I had unpaid claims by the medical aid on 20250611 I been taken from pillar to post regarding payments, portion of the payments was made by Polmed on the 26/6/2025 of which they don't give me a reason why didn't they pay in full. Ihave been calling them numeracy times getting DRS motivation but still not sorted out, My accounts has been handed over because medical aid is failing to make full payment and the staff in the call center are unable to give me clarify i spoke to DARRIK yesterday 30/3/2026 he said he will revert back to me i am still waiting even now. I will like this to be sorted ASAP otherwise I am refering in to the OMDUB of Medical scheme. JM Mohlabi 073 146 9521/ 067 838 0867 Med Aid Num 64005822731
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I had unpaid claims by the medical aid on 20250611 I been taken from pillar to post regarding payments, portion of the payments was made by Polmed on the 26/6/2025 of which they don't give me a reason why didn't they pay in full. Ihave been calling them numeracy times getting DRS motivation but still not sorted out, My accounts has been handed over because medical aid is failing to make full payment and the staff in the call center are unable to give me clarify i spoke to DARRIK yesterday 30/3/2026 he said he will revert back to me i am still waiting even now. I will like this to be sorted ASAP otherwise I am refering in to the OMDUB of Medical scheme. JM Mohlabi 073 146 9521/ 067 838 0867 Med Aid Num 64005822731
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Polmed. As a member for over 20 plus years. What is causing your decline. Why is the admistrator of this medical causing so my disappointment amongst your members There is so much i want to say, but I will refrain from being RUDE. On 28th March 2026 you rejected submission for Transact patches and Panamor Gel, as an exclusion. ***. Is it because I am on Aquarium or what. Soooo angry right now. I require an explanation as to why this counts as an exclusion. SOON you will get the same exposure as GEMS is getting, promise.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Polmed. As a member for over 20 plus years. What is causing your decline. Why is the admistrator of this medical causing so my disappointment amongst your members There is so much i want to say, but I will refrain from being RUDE. On 28th March 2026 you rejected submission for Transact patches and Panamor Gel, as an exclusion. ***. Is it because I am on Aquarium or what. Soooo angry right now. I require an explanation as to why this counts as an exclusion. SOON you will get the same exposure as GEMS is getting, promise.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am extremely dissatisfied and frustrated in the handling of my daughters recent hospital procedure claim. Several crucial claims were only partially paid leaving me with nearly half of the total amount owed to service providers. This outcome is both unexpected and unacceptable. What makes this particularly dissappointing is that I've been a loyal member of this medical aid for more than 21years,in all that time this was the first occasion that I or any member of my family required a hospital procedure. After more than two decades of consistently paying contributions, I expected fair coverage and reliable support when it was finally needed. Instead I have been left with a significant and unforseen financial burden. Members rely on their medical aid to provide meaningful support during serious medical events, and in this instance the service and claims handling of polmed have fallen far short of expectations. I strongly urge polmed to review this partial claims payment as this was in hospital and not out of hospital. My underage daughter also needed physio therapy after this surgery and due to polmeds non-payment for this essential benefit I had to borrow money to get my daughter the help she needed as she had to learn to walk from start again because polmed failed my daughter in this regard. On top of that now I am left with almost half of the amount of the procedure to pay the service providers which leaves me with the question why are we paying monthly contributions and why is there different benefits like in hospital but they dont cover essential aid for their members. For a medical aid that members trust to provide support during serious medical situations this level of service is extremely dissappointing. This experience has seriously damaged my trust in the values of this medical aid called polmed and I would strongly caution other members to carefully consider their options before relying on this scheme...
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am extremely dissatisfied and frustrated in the handling of my daughters recent hospital procedure claim. Several crucial claims were only partially paid leaving me with nearly half of the total amount owed to service providers. This outcome is both unexpected and unacceptable. What makes this particularly dissappointing is that I've been a loyal member of this medical aid for more than 21years,in all that time this was the first occasion that I or any member of my family required a hospital procedure. After more than two decades of consistently paying contributions, I expected fair coverage and reliable support when it was finally needed. Instead I have been left with a significant and unforseen financial burden. Members rely on their medical aid to provide meaningful support during serious medical events, and in this instance the service and claims handling of polmed have fallen far short of expectations. I strongly urge polmed to review this partial claims payment as this was in hospital and not out of hospital. My underage daughter also needed physio therapy after this surgery and due to polmeds non-payment for this essential benefit I had to borrow money to get my daughter the help she needed as she had to learn to walk from start again because polmed failed my daughter in this regard. On top of that now I am left with almost half of the amount of the procedure to pay the service providers which leaves me with the question why are we paying monthly contributions and why is there different benefits like in hospital but they dont cover essential aid for their members. For a medical aid that members trust to provide support during serious medical situations this level of service is extremely dissappointing. This experience has seriously damaged my trust in the values of this medical aid called polmed and I would strongly caution other members to carefully consider their options before relying on this scheme...
Based on recent customer reviews, Polmed is facing significant dissatisfaction from long-standing members who feel let down during critical medical situations. Customers consistently mention rejected claims, particularly under the Aquarium package, where diagnostic imaging like X-rays and sonars are reportedly denied. A recurring theme is prolonged authorisation delays for procedures such as prostheses and surgeries, with members describing repeated follow-ups yielding only query numbers. Concerns around transparency, inconsistent benefit communication, partial payments leaving unexpected shortfalls, and unresponsive call centre support feature prominently across the feedback received.
Polmed has a TrustIndex of 2.4 out of 10 on Hellopeter, based on 29 reviews in the last 12 months. Hellopeter has tracked Polmed across 229 total reviews. How is the TrustIndex calculated? →