Witbank Coalfields Medical Aid Scheme

WCMAS is a restricted membership scheme registered in terms of the medical schemes act, and has been servicing its members, associated Employer Groups, and the community for over 80 years. The Scheme was founded in 1935 and originated from the amalgamation of a number of “medical clubs” operated by some of the Coal Mines in the Witbank area.

These “medical clubs” date back to the early 1920’s and mainly offered their members hospital benefits in return for a monthly membership fee. In 1935, these “medical clubs” amalgamated and formed the Witbank Coalfields Benefit Society (WCBS), a non-profit organization offering its members medical cover mainly through a panel doctor system. With the development in the Coal Mining Industry the Scheme went from strength to strength and in 1976 it changed from a Benefit Society to a Medical Aid Scheme, offering members a wide range of benefits at service providers of their choice.

The scheme currently offers three benefit options namely: Comprehensive, Midmas and Ntsika. The scheme is managed by a Board of Trustees made up of 50% employer representation and 50% employee representation. An internal audit committee oversees scheme activities and annual independent external audits are performed by PriceWaterhouseCoopers. WCMAS has a sound financial record over 80 years with current reserves exceeding 80% of contribution income (as on 31 December 2023). The statutory requirement for reserves is 25%.

With an active Board of Trustees and well experienced and dedicated staff, we will continue to strive to provide our members with the most cost-effective medical scheme using innovative methods combined with effective management and administration.