Health funds keep premium rise under inflation but rising costs remain a challenge
Health fund premiums will rise by an average 3.03% this year, much lower than inflation. Premium increases for other insurance types have surged by up to 16%.
Health fund premiums will rise by an average 3.03% this year, much lower than inflation. Premium increases for other insurance types have surged by up to 16%.
Australian health funds paid a record $23.6 billion for healthcare in 2023 as claims by health funds members hit a new high, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.
A report on the front page of ‘The Australian’ newspaper suggesting the health insurance industry is in a ‘war of words with Mark Butler’ and in ‘fear’ about the timing of the premium announcement is false.
All specialist doctors’ fees should be published on the Government’s Medical Cost Finder website so consumers know who is charging egregiously, the peak body for health funds says.
Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said a successful universal health scheme requires a strong and vibrant private scheme to increase funding for healthcare, promote equity, provide choice and ensure that the most vulnerable Australians are able to access care.
Australia needs tougher laws to protect consumers from unexpected bills in the private health system, where 60 percent of all elective surgical procedures occur, the peak body for private health funds say.
Gemma was 18 months old when she was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. Since then, she’s had countless operations on both her feet and knees.
Countless physio sessions covered by his private insurance meant he could get back on the slopes sooner
Suffering preeclampsia and requiring an emergency c-section, Jenna was thankful her private heath cover was there to help every step along the way.