Bonitas: BonEssential
Monthly Contributions
Max 3 children billed. Child rates apply up to age 24.
Hospital Cover
On these options you can avoid a 30% co-payment by using a hospital on the applicable network. R2 800 co-payment per scan event for MRIS AND CT SCANS. Avoid a R9 800 co-payment by using the DSP for CATARACT SURGERY. A co-payment of R5 200 per admission applies for the removal of impacted teeth only OR A R2 600 co-payment if the dental treatment is done in a day hospital. Avoid a R6 500 co-payment by using a network day hospital for Day Surgery procedures. Procedure co-payments of R2 020, R5 130, and R9 500 may apply.
Chronic Cover
Plan highlights
- Unlimited, network specialists covered in full at the Bonitas Rate
- Pay for a maximum of three children up to age 24
- Uses a list of specific private hospitals
- Linked formulary of chronic medication
- Covers 28 chronic conditions
Who is BonEssential for?
- Members happy to use a defined network of GPs and hospitals in exchange for lower premiums
- People prioritising affordable monthly contributions over freedom of choice
- Budget-conscious members looking for entry-level cover
This is general guidance. Use our free calculator to see whether this plan matches your specific needs and budget.
What's covered
- Unlimited hospital cover at restrictive network
- 28 chronic conditions (27 PMB + 1 additional)
- All Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB) — required by South African law
What to watch out for
- Planned admissions at hospitals outside the network — co-payments apply
- Cosmetic procedures, alternative therapies and certain elective treatments
- Out-of-hospital costs above your annual day-to-day limit (where applicable)
Compare with similar Bonitas plans
BonFit
BonEssential Select
BonPrime
Frequently asked questions
Source: Bonitas BonEssential 2026 Brochure — accessed 2026-04-28.
All benefits and limits are per calendar year, unless otherwise stated.
Managed Care protocols apply.
All benefits are approved by the Council for Medical Schemes.
PMB = Prescribed Minimum Benefits. DSP = Designated Service Provider.
Pricing and benefits sourced from official 2026 Bonitas brochures. Final premiums confirmed by Bonitas at application.