Expert Advice from Bonitas Medical Fund
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Home-based care – there is no place like home

The shift towards home-based care was accelerated by the Covid pandemic. Although not necessarily always possible for Covid patients, the benefits of home-based care vs hospitalisation have been highlighted for both patients and their families for several procedures and illnesses.  Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, says the Scheme has a renewed focus on home-based as an alternative to in-hospital care, without compromising the health of its members.  What is home-based care? It’s defined as the provision of health services, by healthcare practitioners and formal and informal caregivers, in the home. Home-based care is to promote, restore and maintain a patient’s maximum level of comfort, function and health, including care towards a dignified death. It can be classified into preventive, promotive, therapeutic, rehabilitative, long-term maintenance and palliative care categories. When is home-based care appropriate? Post-operative care – after a surgery or procedure so that you gain your independence and become as self-sufficient as possible Generalised illness – when you are ill enough to be admitted to hospital but can be treated at home by healthcare practitioners Palliative care – when you have life-limiting illnesses and the focus is on the relief of symptoms, pain and stress. Some patients may also receive therapeutic treatment.  The primary benefit of home care is that you are in a space which is familiar and usually surrounded by loved ones. This is beneficial not only for those recovering from a disease or needing palliative care but especially those who have cognitive diseases such as dementia.   The alternative to hospital strategy (ATH) Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘Hospital-at-home enables some patients who need acute-level care to receive care in their homes, rather than in a hospital. This care delivery model has shown to reduce costs, improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience. The need for home-based care is not only because of the cost of hospital care but a shortage of beds, nursing staff and other healthcare professionals, particularly in the public sector.’   ‘Bonitas is constantly looking for ways in which to minimise contributions and add value for members.  It is common knowledge that hospitalisation costs are the main cost driver for all medical schemes. Even with 24-hour professional care at home the costs are far less. Most medical aids will pay for nursing care at home For this reason, Bonitas’ partnered with Quro Medical, an innovative South African digital health company, to provide patients with active treatment by healthcare practitioners at home. The technology-enabled hospital-at-home service brings all the essential elements of in-hospital care to the patients’ home, without moving away from evidence-based protocols and state-of-the-art vital sign monitoring. Patients are monitored wirelessly, automatically and continuously to enable early identification of significant clinical change or deterioration. In fact, research has shown that, ‘patients admitted in the home programme were less likely to return to the hospital within 30 days of their discharge’. ‘The partnership also offers earlier and safer relocation to the home,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa’ home-based care is offered to all members, subject to pre-authorisation and Managed Care protocols. ‘It’s important to note that the treating doctor remains at the centre of the patient’s care. While patients who are medically stable may qualify for home-based care, each and every one is different and their response to hospitalisation and/or surgery differs. This means each request has to be reviewed carefully to ensure we provide quality care to deliver the best possible health outcome for the patient.’ The advantages of home-based care Health care at home, in a comfortable environment, improves patient participation in treatment. Having family members and loved ones participating in the care of a loved one – such as helping with bathing, feeding – makes a significant difference in the outcome.  Personal attention Hospitals, out of necessity, have strict rules so instead of the patient adjusting to these, they can be at home, amongst family and in familiar surroundings.  Nursing sisters or carers come to the home for a few hours a day, full time or when the need arises There are no visiting hours and the patient is the primary focus of the caregiver, so needs are met faster and more time is spent with patients.   This also means a faster recovery and the chances of picking up an infection, which can happen in hospital when they are exposed to germs, is reduced. Independence and companionship Losing independence is always a huge concern for those chronically ill or the elderly.  Having home-based care means they have more control and can decide when they want to eat, drink, socialise and sleep.   Companionship A caregiver provides your loved one with a familiar face, friendly conversation and a meaningful human connection, all of which can have a big impact on overall health and well-being. Family involvement Home care enables the family to play a larger part in their loved one’s care plan, this includes a direct line of communication with the caregiver and a care manager providing frequent updates regarding care. Pets It is common knowledge that pets are beneficial to those who are vulnerable and home-based care means pets can stay with their owners. They help calm dementia patients, reducing heart disease and stress related conditions and generally make patients happier.  What about home-based care for COVID-19 For patients with mild disease, home management may be possible, provided they are not at high risk of deterioration (i.e., older than 65 years or presence of co-morbidities). Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘It must be stressed that while hospital care is indispensable for patients in critical condition, home health care is equally right for thousands of people. This personal approach to treatment gives patients the confidence they need to lead independent, full lives. We have no doubt that this is going to play a key role in the future of healthcare.’

October 13, 2021
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Hospital pre-authorisation vs quotes – what you need to know

Due to the different waves of Covid-19 and the emerging variants, a number of elective surgeries were postponed to help minimise the take up of hospital beds and to avoid unnecessary exposure to the virus.  However, surgeries are now getting back on track, – even if it’s only a window during which the backlog of elective surgeries can be tackled. It is the perfect time to talk about the issue of pre-authorisation and quotes and why you should know the difference.  Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Aid, says pre-authorisation, ahead of any medical procedure or hospital admission, is always required. He also stresses the importance of asking for a quote to submit to your medical aid. This will ensure you know exactly what is covered and whether you should plan for any out-of-pocket expenses. Does pre-authorisation mean payment, in full, is guaranteed? Not necessarily.  Let’s take you through the process and T&Cs.  What is pre-authorisation? All procedures that take place in a hospital must be pre-authorised.  Essentially, it’s an agreement between the medical aid and the hospital, indicating a willingness to pay for costs associated with the visit. But even if you do have pre-authorisation your medical aid is not promising to cover 100% of the costs.   All pre-authorisation requests are evaluated against the different schemes’ rules and clinical funding policies however, you remain responsible for any shortfall, including any co-payments. If you are unsure how to go about the process speak to your broker or your medical aid.  When do I need to pre-authorise? You must apply for a Pre-Authorisation Reference number (PAR) as soon as a visit or admission to a hospital is planned. This applies for a CT scan, MRI scan or radio-isotope study. Do this as early as possible in case you are required to submit additional documentation or a motivation from your healthcare provider.  You also need pre-authorisation for: Renal clinic admissions for dialysis Procedures in doctor’s rooms or day clinics, instead of hospital Physical rehabilitation care in rehabilitation facilities Drug and alcohol rehabilitation care in specific facilities Hospice admissions Oxygen therapy at home All specialised radiology What information is needed? Name and surname of the person having the procedure Membership number and dependent code The date of admission or procedure The diagnosis All proposed surgical procedures, diagnostic procedures or specialised radiology codes available (ICD-10, CPT, NRPL codes) The name of the facility where the procedure will take place The names and practice numbers of the healthcare professionals (doctor, surgeon, specialist etc)  Once your pre-authorisation has been approved you will receive a confirmation letter. Read this carefully and check that the information is correct. If you are any queries speak to your doctor or your medical scheme.  What about emergency admissions? In the event of emergency treatment or admission to hospital, you – or a family member or the hospital – must contact your medial aid on the first working day after the incident to obtain authorisation.  Did you know? Your doctor or the facility you are being admitted to, can do the authorisation on your behalf. Despite this, it remains your responsibility to ensure that the authorisation is completed and correct.  What happens if you don’t pre-authorise?   You will either be liable for a co-payment, or your procedure will not be covered. Does pre-authorising ensure payment of the procedure? No, unfortunately not.  Most medical aid plans have varying hospital benefits according to the level of cover you have chosen and they also have a ‘rate’ and which they reimburse healthcare providers. This means that even if the payment is 100% of the rate, this is not necessarily what the healthcare provider will charge, they may charge 200% of your medical aid rate. This means you are responsible for any shortfall in the form of a co-payment.  Co-payments differ from one medical scheme to another and are often higher than anticipated, mostly due to medical practitioners and hospitals charging higher than the medical aid rate. ‘We mitigate this as much as possible,’ says Callakoppen, ‘by negotiating with hospitals and service providers who are on our network, to place a ceiling on the costs of the procedures.’ For this reason, it is best to find a healthcare provider on your scheme’s network Quotes vs pre-authorisation for procedures Callakoppen advises private medical aid members to not only obtain pre-authorisation but to also ask for a detailed quote from the hospital and medical practitioner prior to being admitted to hospital.  ‘This gives you an opportunity to negotiate and eliminates any additional ‘surprise’ payments required after the procedure. ‘The most important thing’, says Callakoppen, ‘is to find out, prior to being admitted, what your medical aid will pay and what payment you might be responsible for. The last thing you want to deal with is a surprise large co-payment and the stress related to that when you are recovering from a procedure.’ 

September 30, 2021
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19 and I am pregnant?

Given today’s current global COVID-19 pandemic, worrying about the potentially harmful viruses’ effect on your pregnancy and baby is a valid concern. You’re probably wondering the best ways to avoid the virus when pregnant, and what to do if you think you may have caught it. How can I protect myself and my baby from catching the corona virus? Protecting yourself from COVID-19 while pregnant, is similar to that of anyone else avoiding the virus. Minimise contact with others through social distancing, frequently wash and sanitise your hands, and avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth. Don’t be tempted to skip important prenatal visits in lieu of avoiding the virus – chat to your doctor about the best way forward with regard to this. Although slightly disappointing, cancelling events such as baby showers is a good idea, as the risk of exposure and infection becomes bigger with larger groups. Being pregnant, it’s a good idea to be extra precautious where possible. However, the RCOG (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) states that pregnancy doesn’t increase your risk of becoming unwell from coronavirus, and the majority only develop mild to moderate symptoms. What should I do if I think I have COVID-19 while pregnant? If you think you may have COVID-19 or have tested positive for corona the first thing you should do is contact your doctor. However, it’s best to avoid travelling to the doctors office as you may come into contact with someone positive for COVID-19 in these spaces. As the virus is new, this means that the studies that have been conducted are limited. Because of this it’s essential to follow social distancing guidelines to try and protect yourself, however, if you do contract the virus there is no immediate need for stress, as pregnancy doesn’t increase your risk.

September 23, 2021
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Redefining healthcare in 2022

As South Africa moves to Covid-19 adjusted Level 2 and vaccination numbers increase, access to quality healthcare remains a priority.  Today, Bonitas Medical Fund announced its 2022 product line up offering. This includes the use of reserves to keep contribution increases lower, a Benefit Booster to stretch day-to-day benefits, a revised international travel benefit with payment for Covid tests and a contribution towards quarantine costs. There is also a renewed focus on preventative care, virtual consultations and plans that enable more South Africans to have access to affordable, quality healthcare.  Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas said, ‘The Scheme performed well in a volatile market, attributable to proactive risk management and prudent board decisions. A positive offshoot of the pandemic was an increased appreciation of medical aid cover that resulted in better-than-expected member retention and a 2.3% membership growth since January.’ Top line changes ’We have taken a strategic decision to utilise approximately R600m of reserves to ensure that 82% of members receive a below CPI contribution increase for the 2022 benefit year. The innovative Benefit Booster equates to an increase in day-to-day benefits for members ranging from 16% to 32%, depending on the members’ plan. We believe it is the largest increase in benefits ever seen in the medical aid industry.’  The average weighted contribution increase across all plans is 4.8% with the BonStart premium decreasing by 7.9%, which can be attributed to the low cost versus benefits ratio and the younger membership profile on the plan. The decrease in contribution is an industry first – as was the decision to offer BonFit Select at a 0% increase in 2020. New offerings include an additional virtual plan, BonStart Plus, a renewed focus on Managed Care with an oncology management programme as well as an enhanced member app, powered by AMP, which includes a personalised wellness programme to encourage healthier behaviour. Plans There will be a total of 15 plans for the year ahead comprising traditional, savings, hospital, edge (virtual), network and income-based plans, each carefully crafted with a specific mix of benefits to appeal to various target markets. Increases range from minus -7.9% to 6.5%. Bonitas has opted to increase its options which are currently in a growth phase – BonSave, BonFit and BonEssential – by only 3.6%. Sustainability and affordability The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) recommended increases in line with CPI of 4.2% with the caveat that financial stability and sustainability of schemes must remain a priority. We feel that the use of part of our reserves to cushion members against increasing costs is an appropriate strategy. Other recommendations by the CMS include: Driving innovation from a pricing point of view; exercising caution in terms of utilising reserves to help cushion increases and adopting innovative pricing models – a directive Bonitas took to heart. Boosting benefits The Benefit Booster is the most innovative change in the healthcare industry since the advent of the savings account. It stretches value and equates to an increase in day-to-day benefits ranging from 16% to 100%, depending on the plan. This covers all out-of-hospital claims including acute medicine, GP consultations and non-surgical procedures such as wart removal. Members simply need to complete a wellness assessment (which can be done online), to tap into the Benefit Booster. Claims will pay from this benefit first – helping to preserve savings and day-to-day benefits for members. Managed Care At the launch, Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa,Head of Operations said, ‘Lifestyle diseases have reached epidemic proportions in South Africa. 80% of these Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are caused by lifestyle risk factors like smoking and obesity.  Managed Care is designed to help members with chronic conditions by using the best clinical and treatment protocols. This is achieved by analytics and continuous research, alignment to the latest technology, market trends and member needs and leveraging this data for enhanced treatment.   Oncology Cancer prevalence is increasing alarmingly. As a result, coordination of care is critical for oncology. Bonitas is introducing a new Oncology Management Programme that utilises a partnership between Medscheme Managed Healthcare and the South African Oncology Consortium (SAOC), to improve the coordination of care of oncology patients. Back and Neck Programme ‘Our back and neck programme has seen a 93% success rate. In 2022, we introduce the eDBC app.  This technology-driven channel offers digital coaching solutions and home-based care to help improve pain and mobility. It includes a self-assessment, baseline progress checks and outcomes’ evaluation.’ The GP is key ‘The Scheme believes that the GP is at the heart of the Managed Care model. Care coordination is essential in ensuring that members get the right level of care and support in managing their conditions. Our GP network has a broad national footprint and 98% of members are within a 10km radius of a network GP.’ Virtual Care BonStart, the inaugural Edge plan introduced in 2020, proved very successful – using virtual care as its base. For this reason, the Scheme is introducing an additional Edge plan, BonStart Plus for 2022, aimed at attracting a new profile of member through this diversified distribution channel and attractive pricing. Virtual care has proven a sound and reliable solution, locally and internationally, for improving access to quality healthcare and is now offered across all 15 Bonitas plans.   Digital Covid-19 spurred progression of digital enhancements with innovations such as a mobile app and WhatsApp channel being swiftly created. The Member Zone is being enhanced allowing members to manage their medical aid more effectively.  Amalgamations Callakoppen says, ‘Bonitas’ track record for amalgamations is excellent and we are currently awaiting approval from the Competition Commission to our proposed amalgamation with the Nedgroup Medical Aid Scheme. The amalgamation will fortify the size of Bonitas as well as decrease the average age and pensioner ratio while bolstering the reserves.’  Travel benefits  ‘We wanted to ensure that our members are covered should they need to travel and noted that testing and enforced quarantine could be expensive. The Scheme is therefore offering a Covid-19 PCR test pre-

September 22, 2021
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Covid-19 Information for Moms-to-Be

Pregnant women do not appear to be more severely unwell if they develop Coronavirus than the general population. As this is a new virus, how it may affect you is not yet clear. It is expected the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms.

September 16, 2021
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Urban living’s impact on our wellness

South Africa is urbanising rapidly: 63% of South Africans are already living in urban areas.  Stats indicate this will rise to 71% by 2030 and by 2050, eight in 10 people will be living in urban areas. While it is unavoidable that people migrate to cities for work, it does have a negative effect on people’s health. The most significant effect is the increase in non-communicable or lifestyle diseases.  Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa,Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, says that the main problems associated with changes in lifestyle and behaviour, due to urbanisation, are: Increased alcohol and tobacco use Lack of exercise.  Cities are often over-populated, there are too few public spaces for physical activity and many residents have to use public or private transport because of long commutes to work, schools and amenities Poor nutrition. Changes in diet include more processed and refined food, an increase in high-fat and high-sugar diets, less fruit and vegetables, less complex carbohydrates and fibre Socio-economic factors There is an increasing recognition of the importance of social, economic and physical environments as determinants of health and well-being. Unfortunately, the poorest people living in under-serviced inner city areas or informal settlements are the most exposed to unhealthy urban environments. With urbanisation, the double burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) will increase if no effective health systems and policies are put in place to prevent, detect and treat communicable and non-communicable diseases. ‘Our analysis of lifestyle diseases indicate that hypertension is the most prevalent non-communicable disease, followed by high cholesterol and diabetes Type 2. Obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes Type 2 and hypertension are all symptoms of metabolic syndrome, caused by poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle. ‘The science around nutrition has long been problematic. Published results have varying conclusions but concur that highly processed and food with high sugar and “bad fat” content should be avoided. ‘Also, in the top seven conditions are susceptibility to blood clotting, asthma, underactive thyroid and depression,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa.  Asthma is a respiratory condition most often caused by pollution or other irritants in the environment and mental health conditions can also be a consequence of urban living. Oncology is also becoming more and more prevalent. The number of Bonitas members with cancer has more than doubled since 2016. Air pollution Motor vehicle, industry and domestic fuel use increases air pollution which is responsible for a range of lung and respiratory diseases, heart conditions and cancers. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma are two of the most prevalent respiratory diseases.  ‘We have the expertise to respond to these risks and lifestyle diseases by providing comprehensive, integrated care, every step of the way,’ explains Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘And, through our Managed Care programme, we help equip our members to take responsibility for their health by providing information and education, encouraging wellness, paying for preventative care and providing cover for medical costs incurred.  However, more needs to be done and we advocate collaboration with public health authorities to educate and encourage South Africans to look after their health.’ Covid-19 and NCDs It is common knowledge that Covid-19 and non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes interact to create a perfect storm. The pandemic has made people more aware of having to take responsibility for their health and preventing or managing chronic disease optimally. ‘Co-morbidities have an impact on those who contract Covid-19 and there is possibly a synergistic issue with the coronavirus and these co-morbidities that exacerbates the prognosis and burden of disease.’  Managed Care ‘Achieving good patient health outcomes is the fundamental purpose of healthcare,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Measuring, reporting and comparing outcomes is perhaps the most important step towards unlocking rapid outcome improvement and making better choices.   ‘Managed Care is a critical component and improves quality of care and we know that proactive intervention and working with members to prevent or control lifestyle diseases is the only way forward. Because when ‘I’ becomes ‘we,’ illness can become wellness.’ The GP is pivotal  We believe there needs to be coordination of care and that members should be encouraged to nominate a General Practitioner as the first port of call for all health care needs, who can refer to a specialist or auxiliary provider as the need arises. This eliminates inefficiencies caused by ‘doctor hopping.’ ‘To tackle the rising burden of disease, we need medical schemes to work together with public health authorities, particularly in the context of the challenges of urbanisation, lifestyle diseases and the Covid-19 pandemic.’

September 13, 2021
Load More
Advice from the experts
Happy Family Organics

What are superfoods and why do we need them?

The term “superfood” is relatively new, but it has become extremely popular. “Superfoods” refer to foods that have exceptionally high nutritional value in the form of vitamins and minerals, and minimal calories. They are also known for being packed with antioxidants.

June 8, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Coronavirus – should you still have a flu vaccine?

The flu season is officially underway and, while Coronavirus is bringing the world to a standstill, it is important to remember that flu can be deadly too. Which is why it is important to have a flu vaccine.

June 3, 2020
RediscoverDairy

Affordable, nutrient-dense dairy is the star of tighter food budgets

As countries around the world, like South Africa, grapple with easing lock-downs and rebuilding economies, COVID-19 remains part of everyday life. Protection from the novel virus is likely to remain a high priority for the foreseeable future. Maintaining our health and supporting our immune systems has probably never been so important for our families. Many South Africans are also tightening the purse strings on their household budgets as the financial consequences of the pandemic response become starker and global recession looms.

June 1, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Making sense of the numbers – cases, co-morbidities and costs

As the number of COVID-19 infections creeps closer to 20 000, both public and private healthcare is going to be under constant pressure. The World Health Organization (WHO) says its COVID-19 data to date suggests that 80% of infections are mild or asymptomatic, 15% are severe infections, requiring oxygen and 5% are critical infections, requiring ventilation.

May 26, 2020
Milas Meals

7 Steps to a Healthy Gut

Did you know that about 70% of our immune system is housed in our gut (or “gutter” as Mila calls it )? Well to be more precise, your gut lining houses 70% of the cells that make up your immune system. (1)

May 25, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Supporting you through your pregnancy

Bonitas Medical Fund believes that as an expecting mom your pregnancy should be a unique and joyful experience. Through targeted support during each trimester, pregnancy education and specific related engagements – via telephone and digital channels – we aim to help you achieve this. With the new Maternity Programme we hope to improve the health of moms-to-be and, as a result, reduce possible complications.

May 19, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Back pain during pregnancy and how to deal with it

Back pain is a common occurrence during pregnancy and can be frustrating to deal with. Unfortunately, if you have any pre-existing back problems you are more likely to struggle with back pain during your pregnancy. If you are suffering from back pain during your pregnancy and are wondering what you can do to help reduce it; we explain what causes it and how you can find some relief. What causes back pain during pregnancy  If you are experiencing back pain during your pregnancy you are probably wondering what is the root cause of it. Generally there are two types of back pain that expecting moms deal with. Pelvic pain, which is felt in the pelvic tailbone area, and lumbar pain which is similar to any lower back pain felt when not pregnant. There are a few culprits of back pain during pregnancy. Hormones, stress, weight changes and posture are all causes of sore and uncomfortable back. During your pregnancy, your hormones change. One of them, known as relaxin, softens the joints in the pelvic region. This can directly impact on your back’s ligaments, causing you back pain. Stress can also cause your back to ache, whether you are pregnant or not. If you are worried about your job, family or pregnancy, you can find that this added anxiety can contribute to back pain. This is due to the fact that anxiety can cause muscle tension, which can then translate into back pain.  Changes in weight as your baby grows and shifts in your centre of gravity can also be a cause of a sore back. If you’re already struggling with poor posture or back ache, then back pain during your pregnancy becomes far more likely. What can help relieve my back pain?  Completely alleviating your back pain may not be possible, but there are things you can try that could help ease and manage your pain. Avoiding lifting heavy objects, opting for flat, supportive shoes and getting plenty of rest are all things you can try to improve your back ache. Exercises that help strengthen your glutes and abs can also help relieve back pain. Prenatal yoga and water aerobic classes are examples of gentle exercises which can help strengthen your body. However, if you are feeling cramps, experiencing vaginal bleeding, feeling feverish, numbness or sporadic pain you should consider consulting with your doctor, as these are all more than just normal pregnancy back pain symptoms.

May 18, 2020
Organix

HELLO WE’RE ORGANIX!

We’ve been cooking up scrummy, nutritious baby and toddler meals and snacks since 1992. It may seem like common sense to us today, but making sure little ones ate a varied diet, full of texture and taste from real fruit and veggies, was a much less talked about idea back then, when our healthy-eating campaigner Lizzie Vann founded Organix. After searching in vain for healthy organic baby and toddler food she decided to make her own and this was how Organix was born.

May 13, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Lifestyle diseases and Coronavirus

As the number of Covid-19 infections moves over 10 000, the health minister Zweli Mkhize has expressed concern about the huge risk group of South Africans suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. In other words Comorbidities.

May 12, 2020
OneAid

Going Viral: Is It COVID-19 Or Something Else?

With COVID-19 following us into winter we are going to have many more other viruses to worry about. Viruses that cause the common cold and Influenza are going to peak over the next few months. Since many of these respiratory illnesses share common symptoms it can become confusing trying to figure out which virus is responsible for your symptoms and even cause you to panic unnecessarily every time you get a tickle in your throat thinking it’s Corona.

May 11, 2020
Toptots Head Office

The Science behind vaccinations

We all hate putting our children through any pain, but when it comes to protecting them from some pretty scary diseases, it is the least we can do for them. Our children are constantly exposed to many different viruses, bacteria, and other microbes from the time they are born. Most are not harmful, some are beneficial, but a few can cause disease. The body’s immune system helps protect us against these harmful infections. When we are exposed to infection, the immune system triggers a series of responses to neutralise the microbes and limit their harmful effects.

May 11, 2020
RediscoverDairy

Dairy under lockdown – all the best hacks

Dairy is such an integral part of our family’s healthy eating that we don’t want lockdown to compromise our daily enjoyment of these nutritious and versatile products. At a time, when we want to look after our health and support our immune systems, dairy in our diets has so much to offer as a unique high-quality protein source with a wide profile of essential micro-nutrients. Luckily, there are a variety of product solutions and lots of fantastic new hacks, shared by Rediscover Dairy, to help you easily manage, buy, store and use dairy during lockdown.

May 5, 2020
OneAid

COVID-19 In Children – What Do We Know?

As parents we worry a lot about our children’s health and most especially now, with this new coronavirus (SARS-Cov-2). With so much information currently available online about COVID-19 it can become difficult for us to sift through the real from the fake news. I hope to simplify things a little in this post and share some of the more convincing theories we have on COVID-19 in children.

May 4, 2020
Milas Meals

Happy Gut, Happy Kid, Happy You

The health of the gut is tied to our children’s overall health and wellness, their immune function, their brain function and even their temperament. (1) (2) (3)

May 4, 2020
Organix

A GUIDE FOR ENSURING YOUR TODDLER IS GETTING ALL THE GOOD NUTRIENTS THEY NEED

Knowing what your little explorer should be having in their diet, from good nutrients to the perfect portion size can be confusing. GOOD NUTRIENTS As your baby grows into a toddler, it’s a time of rapid change and development. Everything is a big new adventure which can make things tricky when it comes to food and mealtimes. Organix (a brand dedicated to making tasty and nutritious organic baby and toddler food) has put together a guide to find out what nutrients your toddler needs… Vitamin D: Needed for healthy bones. Under 5s will need to take a supplement as what they need can’t be found in food alone. Vitamin A: Helps keep little one’s immune system tip top along with their vision. Find it in liver, sweet potato and leafy greens. Zinc: Great for healing scratches and grazes and an energy boost. Lots of dairy foods, meat, fish and eggs contain it. Vitamin C: Helps with growth and repair of skin and other tissues. Oranges, mango, cauliflower, broccoli and berries all contain it. Iron: Essential for making healthy blood cells & carrying oxygen. It’s in red meat, fish, poultry, eggs & beans, lentils & dried fruits. PORTION SIZES There is no ‘ideal’ portion size for toddlers, they should be eating a balanced and healthy diet along with these portions of the four main food groups a day. 5-a-day fruit and veggies: Offer at each meal & as some snacks. Go for a rainbow of colours! 2-a-day protein foods: Meat, fish, eggs, crushed nuts, nut butters & pulses. 5-a-day starchy foods: Such as bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and cereals. 3-a-day dairy foods: Milk, cheese & yogurt (or calcium enriched plant-based alternatives).

May 1, 2020
Catrobatkidz

A Nutritional Guideline for Healthy Active Kids

Parents play a big part in shaping children’s eating habits. In a fast paced world where most parents have to juggle their time between work, play and home and are faced with all the latest food fads, it is no surprise that some parents may need some help understanding what healthy food for their little ones is. Getting children to eat what’s best for them can be a challenge, and giving in to their pestering for less-than-nutritious food can make it awfully confusing. Remember you are the parent and you do the shopping.

May 1, 2020
Parenting Hub

Cosmetix introduces ViroClean Hand Sanitizer

Cosmetix (best known for Caribbeantan, CATRICE and essence) is proud to introduce you to their newest product launch, ViroClean, an advanced hand sanitizer. Manufactured by Cosmetix in Cape Town, this fast-drying, non-sticky sanitizer contains 70% alcohol.

April 25, 2020
Parenting Hub

Meningococcal Meningitis is a devastating illness with a high mortality rate1a

World Meningitis Day is on 24 April and the theme for 2020 is #DefeatMeningitis. The aim of this day is to raise awareness about Meningococcal Meningitis in particular, a disease that can be devastating, with high fatality and a life-changing permanent impact on survivors, even when adequate treatment is provided.1a+f

April 24, 2020
Parenting Hub

KEEDMASKS PROTECT SOUTH AFRICAN CHILDREN

Proudly South African children’s clothing boutique, Keedo, part of the Cape Union Mart Group, operates with a passion for children, and a love for creating items that are best suited to their growth, development and comfort. With decades of experience in designing items exclusively for kids, “Keedo” has become a trusted name when it comes to child health, safety and care.

April 23, 2020
Parenting Hub

Ford Designs Fun Activity Book To Entertain Kids During Lockdown

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, South Africans enter Week 2 of the national lockdown. Ford South Africa, like all other major players in the local auto industry, has temporarily suspended production at its vehicle assembly plant in Pretoria, and its engine assembly plant in Port Elizabeth.

April 13, 2020
Parenting Hub

Disinfect your home Safely with Earthsap

Are you worried that your house needs a thorough disinfecting, but you don’t want to overdo it on harsh chemical-filled cleaning products especially with the kids around?

April 10, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Free virtual medical consultations for all South Africans

Bonitas Medical Fund announced that it has extended its free virtual medical consultations to all South Africans. This facility includes medical advice about COVID-19, other medical problems, the writing of prescription, where necessary and free delivery of chronic medication.

April 9, 2020
Parenting Hub

National lockdown: An opportunity to start new , healthy habits

They say it takes 21 days to form a new habit – the exact time we have been told to stay at home in order to flatten the curve. Memes all over social media have suggested that most of us have one fear being at home – the refrigerator! And, our fears are not unfounded according to Catherine Clark, Owner and Founder of the Harvest Table. She says that a study conducted by Dr Sandi Mann from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) showed that people who are bored crave fatty and sugary foods.

April 3, 2020
Parenting Hub

Help at hand for moms-to-be with chronic conditions

For parents-to-be and their loved ones, pregnancy is a wonderful, almost magical time, filled with joy and anticipation. For expecting women with chronic conditions though, it can also bring anxiety and discomfort.

March 20, 2020
RediscoverDairy

Ideas for healthy lunchboxes

With every new generation of school going kids, comes the important topic of healthy school lunch boxes. What are some of the healthy things to include in the lunchbox? Why is it important for kids to eat healthy foods while they are at school? What are the best drinks for lunchboxes?

March 12, 2020
Baby's and Beyond

Caring for a child with Eczema

Allergic reactions are becoming more prevalent around the world, especially in more developed countries. This heightened sensitivity
may be due to increased exposure to harmful environmental factors, such as air pollution and cigarette smoke, as well as cleaner living environments with fewer micro-organisms and bacterial exposure

March 4, 2020
Good Night Baby

WHEN NUTRITION CAN INFLUENCE SLEEP

As sleep consultants we rarely advise on nutritional problems and always refer our clients to registered dieticians when we do pick up on problems as we are sleep experts after all and NOT feeding experts. However, when we’re working together with parents who have smaller babies, we always address the feeding issue before addressing the sleep.

February 17, 2020
Load More

Sidebar Image

Scroll to Top