Dear Member,
- SAMWUMED is aware of recent email and SMS messages circulating to some of our members, which have caused understandable concern regarding the security of personal and Scheme information.
- We want to reassure you that there has been no breach, leak, or unlawful access of member information. After a comprehensive internal review by the Scheme, we can confirm that:
- None of the Scheme’s systems were breached or compromised; and
- The email addresses and mobile numbers used to send the recent unsolicited messages, were randomly collected and are not associated with any data leak or breach originating from SAMWUMED’s systems.
- Safeguarding our members’ personal data and ensuring our systems are secure is a key priority for the Scheme. We regularly review and update our information security practices to comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and follow top industry standards.
- We are aware that a group known as “Cape Flats Community” has spread misinformation, claiming that SAMWUMED is removing Melomed Hospitals from its network, and have encouraged our members to switch to other SALGA schemes. In reality, SAMWUMED does not have a contract with Melomed. Previous attempts were made to reach an agreement with the National Hospital Network (NHN), which includes Melomed as one of its hospitals, but no new network agreement was established.
- SAMWUMED urges members to stay alert for unsolicited emails or messages and to confirm their authenticity with the Scheme through official channels before responding or making decisions that could affect you or your family.
We thank you for your continued trust and support.
Yours faithfully
Francina Mosoeu
SAMWUMED Principal Officer
