Malawi Posts Corporation (MPC) is one of the institutions that bear testimony to the benefits of being a member of the Medical Aid Society of Malawi (MASM).

MPC’s Desk Officer for MASM Administration, George Kunje, explains that his organization has greatly benefited from the scheme as evidenced by the phenomenal increase in employees who have joined the scheme since 2003.

“We joined MASM in October 2003 with 1,700 members, most of whom were from the towns but now we have 2,042 members country-wide,” he says.

Before MPC de-linked from Malawi Post and Telecommunications Limited (MPTC), the organization had an in-house medical scheme, but as Kunje says, the disadvantages out-weighed the advantages.

“We were paying the doctors directly but we suspended the scheme after we de-linked. The main problem was that people were being delayed in terms of getting medication because their money could not always be processed on time.

“Every time somebody fell sick, they had to apply for a loan and this, unfortunately, took time,” he says.

“We also had problems with emergency advances in times of illnesses, but now people are covered.

“We now pay for full executive and econo-plan schemes for all enlisted employees plus one of their dependent. But in cases where employees have more dependants, they can add them onto the scheme, and the charges will be deducted accordingly.”

Kunje says members have realized the benefits of the scheme and are now increasing the number of dependants on the scheme.

He likens the scheme to an insurance, which covers one in case of an accident.

“In times of need, MASM looks after you,” he explains.

Kunje attributes the changing attitudes towards work among MPC staff to MASM, among other factors

“Staff members are now working more. A sick man cannot perform: you need to be well to perform efficiently and effectively,” he says.

He says that the focus is very bright for MPC MASM members.

“Any member who joins the scheme, now, will see the benefit of joining. I would urge members to join and see for themselves. MASM has so much to offer. For instance, you can fall sick in the middle of the month, but if you are a member there is nothing to worry about, you just pick up the card and go to the hospital.”

Kunje, however, urges members to desist from fraud.

“Members must refrain from fraud. We have noted that there are some members who are allowing people who are not registered to benefit from the scheme. MASM cannot grow and benefits to other schemes cannot improve because of this,” he says

Kunje explains that, with MASM, there is honour even in death.

“Even in death you have to die with honour and respect in a decent hospital ward and not at home just because you cannot afford medical care,” he concludes.