The Medical Aid Society of Malawi (Masm) has announced the scrapping off of shortfalls for its clients accessing medical care in private and government hospitals.
Masm Chief Executive Officer, Sydney Chikoti, made the announcement in Blantyre on Tuesday.
He said the development comes after a member satisfaction survey conducted last year revealed that members were not happy with the payment of shortfalls.
The survey also revealed that members were not happy with the levels of customer service at Masm offices and Masm Medi Clinics.
In addition, the members expressed dissatisfaction with the long time taken to update new member information.
“The survey results showed that members were satisfied that Masm is accessible in all hospitals in addition to the good levels of organisation for ambulances and Masm staff.
“In addition, the survey also revealed that members were impressed with the range of doctors and specialists at their disposal on Masm,” Chikoti said.
He said the scrapping of shortfalls is a direct response to the customer’s needs.
The Masm CEO also announced strict measures to ensure that members do not exceed their limits on their respective plans.
Chikoti said, despite the scrapping off of shortfalls, those who exceed their limits will be expected to pay at the hospitals.
“Previously, the society observed that other members were being asked to pay for the over expenditures of others. Under the new system, those who exceed their limits will be asked to pay additional resources but those who stay within their limits will pay no extra amounts.
“I, therefore, urge members to take some time to study the benefits of their respective medical schemes so that they are aware of their ceilings,” Chikoti said.
He added that those members demanding expensive branded drugs as opposed to generic drugs in pharmacies will be expected to cough additional money for them.
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