Prescribed minimum benefits

In SA, prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) are protections put in place to ensure that people with serious conditions, like cancer, aren’t denied essential treatment due to medical aid limitations. It’s meant to be a form of safety net. 

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

What PMBs mean for you?

If your diagnosis falls under the PMB list, your medical aid is required to cover certain treatments. This  includes chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and essential oncology visits. It’s your right to ask your medical aid whether your cancer is listed as a PMB condition. You’re allowed to know what level of care is covered and what is not.

Where dietitians fit in

Unfortunately, dietitians aren’t automatically covered under the oncology benefit on most medical aids. This means a consultation isn’t always freely included, even though nutrition plays such an important role in treatment strength and recovery.

However, there are situations where a dietitian can apply for PMB funding on your behalf. This usually happens when there is a very specific medical need, such as rapid weight loss, severe malnutrition, swallowing difficulties or the need for medical nutrition supplements or tube feeding. These applications take time and care. Your dietitian will first assess your nutrition risk, then write a motivation to your medical aid explaining why nutritional intervention is necessary for your medical safety.

A realistic expectation

It’s important to know that approval isn’t automatic. There is strict criteria that medical aids use before authorising nutritional supplements or dietitian sessions under PMB. Please try not to feel disheartened if the process feels slow. If your dietitian applies on your behalf, it’s because they see a valid need and that nutritional support will genuinely help your recovery.

For government patients

If you’re receiving care in the public health system, you can ask your doctor to refer you to a dietitian. Dietitians in government hospitals can assess whether you meet criteria for nutritional supplements. These decisions are usually based on weight loss, low BMI, or difficulty eating. Care may take time but asking is an important first step in receiving support.

You are allowed to ask

You may be unsure or afraid to ask about benefits or funding. But remember, you’re not asking for something extra. You’re asking for support that helps your body stay strong through treatment. Whether in the private or public healthcare system, your voice matters. And where possible, we advocate with you and for you.

Meagan Atcheson is a clinical dietitian, specialising in oncology nutrition and complex clinical care. She focuses on quality of life, managing treatment-related symptoms, and empowering patients through every phase of cancer care with structured yet gentle nutrition guidance.