Terms, Conditions & Regulatory Framework
Welcome to Gebe Orthotic & Prosthetic Services. Please review our clinical terms of service, payment policies, and the South African legislative acts governing our practice.
These Terms and Conditions govern all clinical consultations, device fabrications, medical aid submissions, and online appointment bookings with Gebe Orthotic & Prosthetic Services. By utilizing our services or booking an appointment, you agree to comply with these terms and acknowledge the governing regulatory framework.
1. South African Legislative & Statutory Acts Governing MOP
Our practice operates strictly within the statutory and legal boundaries established by South African law. Key legislation and governing bodies affecting Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics (MOP) include:
Health Professions Act 56 of 1974 & HPCSA Rules
Definition & Impact: Governs the registration, ethical conduct, and scope of practice for allied healthcare practitioners in South Africa. All clinical practitioners at Gebe O&P are registered under the Professional Board for Occupational Therapy, Medical Orthotics, Prosthetics and Arts Therapy (POTP) of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
National Health Act 61 of 2003 (NHA)
Definition & Impact: Establishes a framework for a structured national health system in South Africa. Regulates patient rights, informed consent requirements, health record confidentiality, and the right to emergency medical treatment.
Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (MSA)
Definition & Impact: Regulates private medical schemes and medical scheme benefits in South Africa. Dictates SAOPA tariff code invoicing, Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs), and rules governing pre-authorisation for medical orthotic and prosthetic interventions.
Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA)
Definition & Impact: Regulates the processing, storage, and protection of personal data and special personal information (health and medical records). Guarantees patient data privacy, secure database handling, and lawful consent protocols.
Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act 130 of 1993 (COIDA / WCA)
Definition & Impact: Provides compensation for disability caused by occupational injuries or diseases sustained in the workplace. Governs claims, medical reports, and prosthetic/orthotic rehabilitation funding for workplace injuries.
Road Accident Fund Act 56 of 1996 (RAF)
Definition & Impact: Provides indemnity to motor vehicle accident victims. Establishes protocols for medico-legal evaluations, functional capacity assessments, and long-term prosthetic care funding for road trauma survivors.
Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965 & SAHPRA
Definition & Impact: Overseen by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). Regulates the safety, quality, and conformity of medical devices, raw materials (silicone, carbon fibre, thermoplastic), and prefabricated braces imported or fabricated in South Africa.
Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA)
Definition & Impact: Promotes fair business practices, consumer safety, and product quality standards. In MOP practice, it ensures transparency in pricing, material warranties, and clear disclosure regarding custom fabrication lead times.
2. Medical Referral & Consultation Requirements
To initiate clinical care and ensure eligibility for medical aid claims, patients must present a valid referral letter from a registered medical practitioner (General Practitioner, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Neurologist, or Physiotherapist).
3. Medical Scheme Claims & Financial Liability
- SAOPA Tariff Billing: All consultations, fittings, and fabrications are billed strictly in accordance with South African Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (SAOPA) tariff codes.
- Pre-Authorisation: While our practice assists with clinical motivation submissions to medical schemes (Discovery, GEMS, Bonitas, COID, RAF, etc.), obtaining final pre-authorisation remains a joint responsibility.
- Patient Liability: The patient (or main member) remains ultimately liable for any co-payments, shortfall balances, or rejected claims not covered by their medical scheme.
4. Custom Fabrication & Device Adjustments
Custom orthoses and prosthetic devices are precision-engineered specifically for individual anatomical measurements. Once fabrication or custom ordering commences following approval, orders cannot be cancelled. Minor fitting adjustments are provided as part of aftercare during the initial break-in period.
5. Appointment Cancellations & Automated SMS Communications
By scheduling an appointment online or via phone, you consent to receive transactional notifications and appointment reminders via SMS (powered by SMSPortal). Please provide at least 24 hours' notice for appointment cancellations or re-scheduling.
6. Contact Information
For enquiries regarding these Terms and Conditions or administrative matters, please reach out to our practice team:
Practice Locations: Mdantsane (KuGompo City) & King William's Town (Qonce)
Email: admin@gebeopp.co.za
Phone: +27 (0)82 123 4567