SEDIBENG.- The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Faith Mazibuko has urged members of the public applying for disability grants through the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), who require assistance from health practitioners with medical verification forms, also known as referral forms, to visit their nearest Primary Health Care facilities (Clinics).

Mazibuko said that the department has noted that some applicants visit hospitals for the completion of SASSA-related medical verification forms.

The service is freely available at clinics, while it is paid for at hospitals

“In line with the Uniform Patient Fee Schedule (UPFS), applicants may be required to pay a prescribed fee when such administrative services are rendered at hospital level. However, this service is available free of charge at clinics and Community Health Centres (CHCs). Applicants are therefore encouraged to visit their nearest clinic or CHC where health practitioners are available to assist with the required medical forms as part of the disability grant application process,” said Mazibuko.

This will help applicants avoid unnecessary hospital visits, and hospital fees.

“We want to make it easier for disability grant applicants to access the assistance they need. Clinics and CHCs are closer to communities and are better placed to assist with SASSA-related forms without placing an additional financial burden on applicants. We appeal to residents to only use hospitals for services that require specialised care.” said Mazibuko.

The department further reminds applicants to bring the relevant SASSA documents, identity document and any available medical records to assist health practitioners in completing the forms accurately.