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1 December 2023
Dr Helen Weber, Senior Medical Advisor at Sanlam, reflects on the shift in HIV/AIDS perceptions and treatment from a dire diagnosis to a well-controlled chronic disease.
"From a condition shrouded in fear and uncertainty to a manageable chronic illness, South Africa's HIV/AIDS diagnosis and treatment journey has been significant. In the early 2000s, an HIV diagnosis was considered a life-altering condition and HIV-positive individuals had to take a handful of pills with such pronounced physical side effects that they were easily identifiable. We've now successfully reduced treatment to one pill a day and even injectable forms available every two months – drastically improving the quality of life for individuals living with HIV."
The mortality study reveals that South Africa’s life expectancy at birth was 65.1 years in 2017, compared to 54.0 years in 2006. Of these 11.1 years gained, the study says 8.9 years were attributable to HIV mortality reductions.
Insurers like Sanlam have played a pivotal role in this evolution. Sanlam, which became the first major insurer in South Africa to offer standard life cover to people living with HIV in 2013, recognised the potential for change, offering life and health insurance products to enable HIV-positive individuals to live with confidence.
Dr Weber shares how people can help to maintain the momentum of this progression.
HIV-positive individuals have nuanced financial considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, medical aids are legally required to support HIV-positive individuals as part of the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB). This ensures access to essential health services, including HIV treatment, regardless of the chosen benefit option. Individuals without medical aid can access free treatments like antiretroviral treatment (ART).
Additionally, gap cover is an essential supplement to medical aid, covering excess costs not covered by standard medical aid plans. Furthermore, incorporating elements such as disability cover is recommended for income protection in unforeseen circumstances. Fortunately, individuals with HIV can access life cover and other financial services without facing discrimination, similar to any other well-managed chronic condition.
Dr Weber says advancements in HIV prevention, like Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), are pivotal in maintaining the country’s positive trajectory by reducing the risk of contracting HIV, especially for those with higher exposure risks. Additionally, Sanlam offers financial and health security for HIV-positive individuals tailored to meet their needs. These products provide financial support if an individual can't work or faces a significant health crisis, and protect the family financially in the event of the policyholder's illness or death.
“Receiving an HIV diagnosis can be mentally and emotionally challenging. We aim to help alleviate this burden by offering post-diagnosis counselling and support.”
She concludes, “Our solutions are more than just financial safety nets. They represent a holistic approach to living with a chronic disease. These comprehensive solutions aim to give hope and reassurance to HIV-positive individuals, reminding them that an HIV diagnosis is not a life sentence but a manageable condition.”