The Gauteng Department of Health and Wellness has warned SASSA disability grant applicants that they could face unnecessary costs if they continue using hospitals to have medical verification forms completed.
The department said applicants are visiting hospitals for help with referral forms, also known as functional referral forms, which form part of the disability grant application process. Under the Uniform Patient Fee Schedule (UPFS), hospitals may charge a prescribed fee when these administrative services are provided.
Free service at clinics and CHCs
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Faith Mazibuko urged residents to use clinics and Community Health Centres (CHCs), where the service is offered free of charge.
“Clinics and CHC’s are better suited to assist residents with the completion of Sassa-related medical verification forms and are located closer to communities,” Mazibuko said.
“We want to make it easier for disability grant applicants to access the assistance they need. Clinics and CHC’s 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.”
What applicants should bring
The department reminded residents applying for disability grants to bring their relevant SASSA documents, identity documents and any available medical records when visiting a clinic or CHC.
