Australian Government data released today confirms Australians’ ongoing confidence in private health insurance.
Over the last quarter (December 31, 2021) the number of people with private insurance continues to grow.
People with cover for hospital treatment increased by 58,459 people over the
December quarter. Those with extras cover – such as optical, physio and dental – rose by 79,088 new members.
Growth over the last 12 months to December 2021 is 228,506 people for hospital treatment cover and a massive 304,016 for extras cover.
“This is the sixth consecutive quarter of growth and is a huge vote of confidence in private health insurance,” said Matthew Koce, CEO of Members Health, the peak body for 26 of the country’s not-for-profit and member owned health funds.
“Australians clearly value the access and high quality care they have with private health insurance.”
“Belonging to a health fund provides more control for patients with a doctor of choice and a private bed.”
Mr Koce said the APRA results are a timely reminder of the strengths of Australia’s mixed private-public health care system.
“More people with private health insurance also eases the strain on our public hospital waiting lists.”
“Over 14 million Australians now have health insurance cover, more people than at any other time in Australia’s history.”
“The increased number of people turning to the private health system is a vote of confidence in insurers, hospital operators and most importantly, the frontline health workers who provide outstanding care to their patients.”
“Throughout the pandemic doctors, nurses, and the entire health team have been doing an incredible job in a challenging COVID-19 environment. They are our unsung heroes.”
“Like our health workers, Members Health funds are committed to helping people to get well and stay healthy.”
“Our alliance of funds have stuck by their members throughout the pandemic, paying more in every dollar of premiums back as benefits and committing millions of dollars in customer support measures.” Mr Koce said.
Members Health is the peak industry body for an alliance of 26 health funds that are not-for-profit or part of a member-owned group, regional or community based. They all share the common ethic of putting their members’ health before profit. Our funds represent the interests of more than 5 million Australians.
Media Contact
Matt.Harris@membershealth.com.au
0479 135 464