Insurance

Can you trust AI-powered health tools with your health?

South Africans are embracing technology to take greater control of their well-being. From smartwatches that monitor heart rates and sleep patterns to AI-powered health applications that flag potential risks, digital health tools are helping more people become proactive about their health than ever before.

But while technology can provide valuable health insights, Dr Marion Morkel, chief medical officer at Sanlam, believes it is important to keep these tools in perspective.

‘AI works best when it complements human judgement, not when it replaces it,’ says Morkel.

Many clinically validated tools are designed to support wellness screening rather than provide definitive medical diagnoses. In an era of rapid technological innovation, where AI-powered health tools are becoming part of everyday decision-making, understanding their role and limitations is essential.

The value of seeing the bigger picture

Where AI-powered health technologies truly excel is in helping people monitor trends over time. Tracking activity levels, sleep quality, heart-rate variability and other health indicators can encourage healthier lifestyles and greater awareness of potential risks.

As Morkel explains, however, neither outcome is a substitute for long-term well-being.

‘Let trackers track, not diagnose. Use AI in context, not in isolation.’

The same principle applies to financial planning.

While technology can help identify potential health risks, it cannot remove the financial impact of a serious illness, disability or unexpected loss of income.

Preparing for life's uncertainties

Sanlam’s claims experience shows that serious health events are affecting South Africans across all age groups. That’s why a holistic approach to well-being includes both healthcare guidance and appropriate financial protection.

According to the latest Sanlam Claims Statistics for 2025, Sanlam paid out R6.89 billion in claims. The data reveals that cancer and cardiovascular conditions accounted for more than 30% of all death claims, while cancer represented 54% of severe illness claims. Notably, the statistics also show a 7% increase in disability (lump sum) claims for both mental health conditions and cancer among men compared to 2024.

Depending on individual circumstances, solutions may include:

Income protection to help safeguard your earning ability if illness or injury prevents you from working.
Severe illness cover to provide financial support following the diagnosis of specified serious conditions.
Life cover to help protect the people who depend on you financially.
Gap and healthcare-related solutions that can complement broader financial planning strategies.
Investment and retirement solutions that help build long-term financial resilience alongside physical well-being.

Trust, transparency and informed decisions

As AI becomes more integrated into everyday life, understanding how personal information is used and protected remains essential.

Consumers should take the time to understand what digital health platforms are designed to do, how data is stored and whether appropriate safeguards are in place. Equally important is the ability to seek professional opinions and ask questions before making health-related decisions.

The same philosophy sits at the heart of financial planning: informed decisions, expert guidance and solutions tailored to your unique needs.

Don't just track your future. Plan for it.

Speak to a Sanlam-accredited financial adviser today and turn today’s health insights into tomorrow’s financial confidence. Whether you’re protecting your income, your family, your lifestyle or your legacy, the right advice can help you build resilience for whatever life brings.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial or investment advice. Insurance and investment solutions are subject to product terms, conditions, exclusions, underwriting criteria and regulatory requirements. Clients should consult appropriately qualified medical professionals and licensed financial advisers before making decisions based on their individual circumstances.