Johannesburg – The Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) has announced that a revised contribution adjustment of 9.5% for the year 2026 has been approved by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS).
In a statement made available to The Bulrushes on Thursday, 22 January 2026, GEMS said the approval followed extensive engagement with labour unions through the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC).
“The Scheme initially announced a contribution adjustment of 9.8% on 17 November 2025 as approved by the CMS,” the statement.
“Subsequent consultations with key stakeholders, including the PSCBC, and further actuarial analysis have informed the revised adjustment.
“During the consultations, the Scheme provided detailed information on operational costs, which includes a breakdown of non-healthcare costs.”
The decision aligns with GEMS’ mandate to provide affordable and comprehensive healthcare benefits to public service employees, while ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the Scheme.
“An adjustment below 9.5% would compromise the Scheme’s financial stability and operational efficiency, thereby jeopardising our ability to fulfil our mandate,” said Dr Stan Moloabi, Principal Officer of GEMS.
For January 2026, the contribution adjustment of 9.8% will apply as approved by CMS.
The revised adjustment of 9.5% will be implemented from February 2026.
GEMS remains one of the most affordable medical schemes in South Africa.
For a standard public service family, contributions are up to 23% lower than those in comparable open schemes before the subsidy is taken into account, and up to 51% lower after the subsidy is included.
All Members and Stakeholders have been informed of the revised and approved contribution adjustment for 2026 through official communication channels.
