September 2025 Edition | Quarter 3 | Spring into Wellness

Principal Officer’s Foreword

Dear Valued Member,
Welcome to the Quarter 3 edition of Pulamed Pulse.Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings. It is a reminder to all of us to refresh our commitment to healthier living and to embrace opportunities that uplift our wellbeing. At Pulamed, this spirit of renewal is reflected in our work and the partnerships we continue to nurture.
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This quarter has been especially vibrant and meaningful. We proudly stood alongside our Members at the Lucara Botswana GM’s Cycling Challenge, Debswana OLDM General Manager’s Charity Walk, the Workplace Wellbeing & Productivity Summit by Psych Matters, the Mascom Batanani Walk, the Business Botswana Golf Day, the Morupule CEO’s Annual Charity Cycle Challenge, and the UB Marathon 2025. Each of these engagements represents more than just events; they reflect shared values, collective action, and our ongoing commitment to fostering healthier, stronger communities across Botswana.
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Through sports, wellness walks, thought-leadership summits, and networking forums, Pulamed continues to champion health, inspire collaboration, and stand as a trusted partner in driving national wellness. These platforms not only allow us to contribute to meaningful causes but also to connect with our stakeholders in impactful ways.
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As we welcome this new season, I encourage you to also “spring into wellness.” Whether it’s taking time for health checks, adopting a more active lifestyle, or simply prioritising balance and wellbeing, let us embrace this season of growth together. Pulamed remains committed to enabling access to healthier living and walking this journey with you.
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Yours in Health,
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Dr. Khumoetsile Mapitse
‍Principal Officer

Member Benefit Spotlight

Pulamed frequently asked questions!

Why is there a 10% co-payment required, especially during medical emergencies when members may not have cash available

The 10% co payment is required by the scheme to manage overall healthcare costs and ensure sustainability of benefits for all members. While it may be challenging during emergencies, it is a standard practice to encourage responsible use of medical services. We recommend having a contingency plan in place for such situations.

Out-of-pocket expenses: Is it possible to receive medical services without incurring these, and how can I ensure that I stay within my benefits range

Yes, it is possible to minimize or avoid out-of-pocket expenses by using service providers who are within thePulamed network and ensuring that services are within your benefit limits. Medical aids enter agreed tariffswith Service providers. These are agreed upon for health care services covered by medical aid. Someservice providers may charge outside of the set tariffs and this will result in out-of-pocket payments for themember. This is termed balanced billing. The tariffs are published every financial year on the Pulamedwebsite and members may appraise themselves before seeking out a service provider. Always check yourbenefit status and consult with Pulamed before receiving treatment when possible.

I am interested in joining Pulamed. Do I have to submit my application to HR, even though it contains personal information I’m not comfortable sharing

You are encouraged to submit your application directly to Pulamed ed If you are concerned about privacy. However, HR can assist in facilitating the process confidentially. Please contact Pulamed to explore secure submission options.

Does Pulamed offer a Disease Management Programme? If so, how does it work

Yes, Pulamed has a Disease Management Programme designed to support members with chronic conditions. The programme provides clinical support, education, and resources to help manage conditions effectively. Enrolled members receive personalized care plans and may be contacted by healthcare professionals. Members living with a chronic disease are encouraged to register on the Chronic Disease program and forms are accessible from the Pulamed website.

I’ve heard that Pulamed can suspend members. What causes suspensions andhow can I avoid this

Suspension typically occurs due to non-payment of contributions, submission of fraudulent claims, or breach of scheme rules. The fund Rules stipulate that a member will be suspended if they are owing one month contribution and will be terminated if they are owing two months worth of contributions. To avoid suspension, ensure your contributions are up to date, adhere to scheme rules, and communicate proactively with Pulamed if you encounter any challenges.

Why is pre-authorisation needed, and how does it apply during emergencies

Pre-authorisation is a guarantee of payment and will outline the total amount covered by the fund and themember’s liability. Preauthorisation is required for certain procedures and treatments to ensure they arecovered by the scheme and medically necessary. In emergencies, treatment is prioritised, andauthorisation can be obtained retrospectively. Always notify Pulamed as soon as possible after emergencytreatment.

Do you have agreements with private hospitals and clinics across the country

Yes, Pulamed has a network of partnered private hospitals and clinics across Botswana. Using these facilitieshelps ensure your treatment is covered within the scheme’s terms and reduces the likelihood of unexpectedcosts. Pulamed also extends cover to hospitals in South Africa with the major Hospital groups such asNetcare, Mediclinc, Lenmed & Life General hospitals.

My child studies in South Africa. Is he/she covered under Pulamed and are therespecific clinics or hospitals there that accept Pulamed

Yes, your child is covered while studying in South Africa, provided they are a registered dependant. Pleasecontact Pulamed for a list of affiliated hospitals and clinics in South Africa that accept the scheme. Pulamedoffers cover for students studying or planning to study in SA through their partners; Thebemed. This doescome at an extra cost, but the Fund does offer a 25% discount to members. Members interested in this mayemail bd@pulamed.co.bw for more information.

Does Pulamed offer travel insurance? If so, what is the process and how much does it cost

Yes, travel insurance is available for members traveling outside the country by road, air or sea. Membersare encouraged to apply at least 48hrs before they leave Botswana as applications cannot be doneretrospectively. You may complete our online form at www.pulamed.co.bw and you will receive coverwithin 24hrs. There are two levels of cover, Gold & Silver and are dependant on your travel destination. Forfurther clarity, please email travelinsurance@pulamed.co.bw or contact 3159416. This benefit is at no extracost and is underwritten by BIC.

Can you provide details on maternity benefits

Pulamed offers comprehensive maternity benefits, including antenatal visits, delivery, and postnatal care,subject to scheme rules and benefit limits. Pre-authorisation is required for hospital admissions. Pulamedmembers are covered 100% for delivery and associated costs when they use hospitals within the network.These hospitals are Francistown Academic Hospital, Riverside Private Hospital, Bokamoso Private Hospital,Maun Private Hospital, Doctors Inn Maun & Debswana Mine Hospitals in Jwaneng & Orapa. Please consult the maternity benefits guide for more detailed coverage information.

Interested in joining mail us at bd@pulamed.co.bw or Call 315 9416.

Activate your life with Pulamed

Pulamed Processes

Chronic Disease Management

Where to get your medicine?

You can choose from over 160 registered pharmacies around the country to collect your prescribed chronic medicines. Pulamed does not impose restrictions.

The Chronic Disease Benefit

It covers you for a defined list of chronic conditions. Members are required to apply for the Chronic Management Program to access their prescribed monthly medication. The Chronic Disease Management & HIV/ART forms are available at www.pulamed.co.bw. Members may submit their forms directly to managedcaredepartment@afa.co.bw

Confidentiality

We strive to keep all information about patients and their diagnosis as confidential as possible and it will not be disclosed to any third parties, employers, or any persons without your express written consent. When sending your forms, especially for Chronic conditions and HIV, you can personally deliver to Managed Care or send to managedcare@afa.co.bw

Medicine cover for Chronic conditions

Medicine cover for Chronic conditions - You get full cover for approved chronic medicine on our medicine list. For medicine not on our list, we cover you up to a set tariff BWP, meaning that we pay up to the prescribed amount. Please note in this case, you may have to top up from your pocket.

Asthma
Bipolar Mood Disorder
Bronchiectasis
Cardiac Failure
Cardiomyopathy
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Chronic Renal Disease
Coronary Artery Disease
Crohn’s Disease
Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes Type 1
Diabetes Type 2
DysrhythmiaOsteoporosis
Epilepsy

Glaucoma
Haemophilia
Hepatitis C
HIV
Hyperlipidaemia
Hypertension
Hypothyroidism
Multiple Sclerosis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Parkinson’s Disease
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Schizophrenia
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Ulcerative Colitis
Peptic/Duodenal/Gastric Ulcers
Depression

News & Events

Pulamed the at the Lucara General Manager’s Cycling Challenge

Pulamed proudly supported the 10th edition of the Lucara GM’s Cycling Challenge in Letlhakane. The event brought together cyclists to raise funds for education and development projects, including classroom construction, school ICT upgrades, and digital connectivity in underserved areas. Pulamed’s participation reinforced our commitment to advancing health, education, and sustainable communities.

Pulamed at the 2025 Workplace Wellbeing & Productivity Summit – Psych Matters

Under the theme “Promoting Decent Jobs & Work Environments that Ensure Prosperity for ALL,” the summit explored how workplace wellbeing impacts productivity and employment creation. Dr. Khumoetsile Mapitse spoke on “The Role of Medical Aid in Promoting Workplace Wellbeing,” alongside leaders such as Hon. Lawrence Ookeditse, Assistant Minister of Health, and Dr. Morekwe Selemogwe-Matsetse, Founder of PsychMatters.

Pulamed at the 2025 Debswana OLDM General Manager’s Charity Walk

Pulamed sponsored the 20th Annual GM’s Walk in Orapa. This year’s theme, “A Walk for Water,” focused on addressing water shortages affecting over 13,000 households in Boteti. Pulamed’s participation aligned with the OLDM’s mission to improve access to essential resources that sustain health and wellbeing.

Pulamed at the Mascom Batanani Walk 2025

Pulamed joined the Mascom Batanani Walk in Francistown to support Journey of Hope Botswana in their fight against breast cancer. Our sponsorship contributed to expanding mobile awareness and early screening initiatives, enabling more women to access life-saving diagnostic care. Pulamed’s presence was led by Mr. Kemmonye Phaladi, Head of Stakeholder Management & Business Development.

Pulamed at the Morupule CEO’s Annual Charity Cycle Challenge 2025

Pulamed proudly sponsored the Morupule Cycle Challenge in Palapye. The event featured cycling distances from 30km to 120km and raised funds to support underprivileged community members within MCM’s Zone of Influence. Proceeds from past challenges have funded housing projects and social equity initiatives, reflecting the power of sport for social change.

Pulamed at the UB Marathon 2025

Pulamed supported the 4th Annual UB Marathon. Held on 7 September 2025, the marathon welcomed over 3,600 participants and raised funds for the Graduate Scholarship Endowment Fund. The event not only promoted fitness and wellbeing but also supported access to higher education for graduate students across Botswana.

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