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Bonitas vs Medihelp
A large administered scheme compared with the oldest self-administered scheme.
By Martin Janse van Rensburg, Sales Manager and Financial Advisor · Reviewed by Roxanne Hurter-Ehlers
Bonitas vs Medihelp: Compare Plans, Benefits and Networks (2026)
Bonitas and Medihelp are two of South Africa's open medical schemes, both regulated by the Council for Medical Schemes. This guide compares their structure, plan ranges, hospital networks and wellness programmes so you can see how they differ. It does not quote premiums, which change every year: for current contributions, check each scheme's own website or ask a broker for a personalised quote.
| At a glance | Bonitas | Medihelp |
|---|---|---|
| Scheme type | Open scheme, CMS-regulated | Open scheme, CMS-regulated |
| Administration | Open scheme with external administration | Self-administered |
| Plan ranges | options such as BonCap, BonStart, Standard, BonSave, BonFit, BonComplete, BonClassic and BonComprehensive | options such as MedMove!, MedVital, MedAdd, MedSaver, MedReach, MedPrime, MedElite and MedPlus |
| Plan types | Entry-level network, hospital, savings and comprehensive options | Entry, savings, network (Elect) and comprehensive options |
| Hospital network | A mix of open and network plans, including the BonCap network and Select variants | Tiered hospital-network access, with Elect options using a defined network |
| Wellness and rewards | B-Value and Wellbeing rewards (free to members) and the Babyline helpline for young children | Preventative and chronic-care support, including an oncology programme |
Who each scheme may suit
Bonitas
Bonitas is one of the largest open schemes. On structure, it may suit people who want a large open scheme with a broad option list and free wellness benefits.
Medihelp
Medihelp is the oldest medical scheme in South Africa, dating to 1905. On structure, it may suit people who value a long-established, self-administered scheme.
The right choice depends on your specific needs, your preferred hospitals and which plan tier fits your situation, not on the scheme name alone.
How a broker helps you compare
A registered broker compares the schemes side by side against your needs through a needs analysis (required under the FAIS Act), covering your health needs, chronic conditions, family composition, hospital preferences and budget. Curemed is FSP 44098 and accredited by the Council for Medical Schemes as ORG 163, and advises on all the main open schemes. See our credentials.
Related comparisons and guides
Frequently asked questions
Which scheme is self-administered?
Medihelp is self-administered, while Bonitas is an open scheme with external administration.
Which is older?
Medihelp is the oldest medical scheme in South Africa, dating back to 1905.
Which has more plan options?
Bonitas publishes a longer list of options, while Medihelp offers a focused range with Elect network variants.
Do both have entry-level network plans?
Yes. Bonitas offers BonCap, and Medihelp offers MedMove! and Elect options.
Do both have savings-type plans?
Yes. Bonitas offers BonSave and BonFit, and Medihelp offers MedAdd and MedSaver.
Are both open to the public?
Yes. Both are open schemes regulated by the Council for Medical Schemes.
How do I choose between them?
Match each scheme's plan tiers, hospital networks and benefits to your needs. A broker can run a side-by-side comparison and a personalised quote.
Compare these schemes against your needs
Speak to an independent Curemed broker for a no-obligation needs analysis and a side-by-side comparison matched to your situation.
Speak to a broker
Martin Janse van Rensburg
Sales Manager and Financial Advisor | Financial advisor specialising in medical aid
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