Gap service providers are essential in covering the financial shortfalls of the medical scheme (medical aid), ensuring that you are fully protected against unexpected medical expenses.
This article showcases two prominent gap service providers, TRA and Discovery Health, listing their monthly premiums, coverage, and key benefits.
Gap Cover
Gap cover is a medical insurance plan that is designed to cover shortfalls on approved medical treatments (in-hospital and specific out-of-hospital procedures). This shortfall is the difference between what medical aid pays and the actual cost of medical treatment.
Gap services are crucial for avoiding out-of-pocket expenses and providing comprehensive financial protection during medical emergencies.
Side By Side: Gap Cover Providers
TRA: Overview and Features
TRA is a reputable gap service provider known for its extensive coverage options and competitive pricing.
Monthly Premium
- Starting at R99 per month.
Coverage Above Tariff
- Up to 700% of the medical scheme rate
Some Key Benefits
- Casualty
- Co-payments
- Sub-limits
- Oncology Cover
- Certain dental procedures
- Global fee benefit
- Maternity private ward rate shortfalls
- Travel benefits with Hepstar Travel
- TRA Assist
Gap Cover Plans
Basic Cover 300 – from R99p/m
Vital Cover Plus- from R360 p/m
Super Cover Plus – from R380 p/m
Absolute Cover Plus from R620 p/m
Discovery: Overview and Features
Discovery is a well-known insurance provider with a strong presence in the health insurance market. It offers comprehensive gap cover options.
Monthly Premium
- Starting at R157 per month.
Coverage Above Tariff
- Up to 500% of the medical scheme rate
Some Key Benefits
- In-hospital specialist claims – supplementary illness benefit
- Specific out-of-hospital costs
- Co-payments on approved cancer-related claims
- Extended cover for scopes and scans
- Travel benefits outside of South Africa
- Support for high-cost treatments on more expensive packages
- Hospital admission benefit extender covers gaps still experienced over and above what your medical scheme and In-hospital Specialist Gap Cover pay for (up to R15 000 per year, depending on your Discovery Vitality status, health plan type, and family structure).
Gap Cover Plans
The Discovery Gap Comprehensive – from R248 (dependent on age and medical aid plan)
The Discovery Gap Core – from R157 (dependent on age and medical aid plan)
For more detailed information, visit the official websites of both service providers.
Get To Know Your Gap Cover
Coverage and Benefits
- TRA: Offers up to 700% coverage above the tariff, covering a wide range of medical expenses including casualty and co-payments, making it suitable for comprehensive coverage needs.
- Discovery Gap Cover: Provides up to 500% coverage above the tariff, focusing on in-hospital specialist claims, specific out-of-hospital costs, and co-payments on approved cancer-related claims.
Cost vs Value
- TRA: More affordable with premiums starting at R99, offering extensive benefits and higher coverage percentages.
- Discovery Gap Cover: Higher starting premium at R157, but offers specific high-value benefits such as their extender benefits and support for high-cost treatments.
Overall Customer Service
- TRA: Known for excellent customer service and a comprehensive support system, including TRA Assist. TRA is often praised for its broader coverage options.
- Discovery Health: Well-regarded for its customer support, particularly in handling high-cost treatment claims and providing international travel benefits. Discovery is valued for its in-hospital and high-cost treatment support.
Plan Flexibility and Customisation
- TRA: Offers a wide range of benefits that can cater to various medical needs.
- Discovery Health: Provides specialised support for high-cost treatments and cancer-related claims and a hospital admission benefit extender.
Add Ons
- TRA: Travel benefits and TRA Assist mobile app are notable additional perks.
- Discovery: Benefit extenders and support for high-cost treatments.
For more detailed information, visit the official websites of both service providers.
Let’s Sum It Up
Total Risk Administrators (TRA) is the top-ranked gap cover provider in South Africa. It offers comprehensive plans designed to protect you and your family.
Recognised for their integrity and efficiency, TRA is ranked top gap cover provider on Hellopeter, reflecting their exceptional customer service and commitment to client satisfaction. Their policies provide extensive benefits, ensuring financial support for a wide range of medical expenses. Clients consistently praise TRA for their fast, efficient service and reliable claims processing, highlighting the ease of accessing their services and the prompt resolution of issues.
With a customer-centric approach, TRA delivers a seamless and supportive experience, making them the preferred choice for gap cover.
TRA’s Take
When choosing a gap service provider, consider your specific medical needs, age, and budget.
Review the benefits and coverage details carefully to ensure you select the provider that best meets your requirements.
Get a quote from TRA today!
For more detailed information, visit the official websites of both service providers.
Disclaimer:
This article was written on behalf of TRA and is intended to provide general information about TRA’s Gap Cover plans and Discovery’s Gap Cover Plans. It is not offering advice to its readers. TRA is an independent gap cover provider and is not affiliated with Discovery. All medical aid plan information referenced is based on publicly available sources as of 2025 and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date details about Discovery, please consult them directly or visit their official website. Always review the full TRA policy documents to understand benefits, limitations, and waiting periods that may apply. TRA is underwritten by Auto&General, an authorised financial services provider and licensed non-life insurer.
