Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) has warned the Federal Government’s proposed changes to the private health insurance rebate for older Australians could threaten the viability of dozens of private hospitals that regional communities rely on for essential healthcare.
Older Australians could be hit with health insurance price rises three times higher than younger Australians from April next year, with some retirees facing annual increases of more than $1,600, analysis from Private Healthcare Australia shows.
Health insurers are calling on the Government to exempt Australians aged over 65 on low incomes — including those on the Age Pension — from changes to the Private Health Insurance Rebate, warning the move could force vulnerable people to drop their cover.
The Government’s decision to cut the Private Health Insurance Rebate will disappoint thousands of older Australians, says Dr Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia.
New national data reveals Australians rely on private hospital care at every stage of life – from neonatal intensive care for newborns, mental health treatment for young adults, and joint replacements that help older Australians stay independent.
The rising cost of Gold health insurance policies highlights the deeper challenges Australia’s health system is facing as the population ages and the cost of delivering care continues to soar.
