Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Private Healthcare Australia (PHA)

Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) is the Australian private health insurance industry’s peak representative body that currently has 21 registered health funds throughout Australia and collectively represents 99% of people covered by private health insurance. PHA member funds today provide healthcare benefits for over 15 million Australians.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Latest Posts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/latest-posts/)
- [New polling reveals strong opposition to the Government’s health insurance rebate cut](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/new-polling-reveals-strong-opposition-to-the-governments-health-insurance-rebate-cut/) - New research has revealed strong opposition to the Albanese Government's plan to slash the higher private health insurance rebate for Australians aged 65 and over, with most people across Australia questioning the fairness of the policy and supporting alternatives.
- [Private health system reforms must keep health insurance affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-system-reforms-must-keep-health-insurance-affordable/) - Private Healthcare Australia has welcomed the Federal Government's consultation on potential reforms to Australia's private health sector, saying the process provides an important opportunity to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the system while protecting the affordability of private health insurance.
- [Patient rights and transparency strengthened for private treatment in public hospitals from today](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/patient-rights-and-transparency-strengthened-for-private-treatment-in-public-hospitals-from-today/) - Patients considering using their private health insurance in a public hospital will receive clearer, more consistent information about their rights from today, with the rollout of a new national claim form backed by private health insurers to improve transparency around private patient elections.
- [Health funds back stronger transparency laws for specialist doctor fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-back-stronger-transparency-laws-for-specialist-doctor-fees/) - Private Healthcare Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s legislation to upgrade the Medical Costs Finder website, saying it is a critical step toward tackling Australia’s growing specialist fee crisis.
- [Australians demanding action to keep medical specialist fees affordable, research reveals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-demanding-action-to-keep-medical-specialist-fees-affordable-research-reveals/) - Australians are demanding urgent action to curb rising medical specialist fees which are forcing a growing number of people to delay or abandon vital medical care.
- [Restoring affordable access to specialist care in Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/restoring-affordable-access-to-specialist-care-in-australia/) - In this new report, Mandala and Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) examine the affordability of specialist care in Australia. The analysis shows that specialist fees are increasing, intensifying cost-of-living pressures for consumers and further undermining the affordability of healthcare.
- [Government appears to be flying blind on health insurance rebate cuts for older Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/government-appears-to-be-flying-blind-on-health-insurance-rebate-cuts-for-older-australians/) - Serious gaps in the Government’s understanding of who will be affected by its plan to cut the higher health insurance rebate for older Australians have been exposed at Budget Estimates this week.
- [Same surgery, wildly different prices: Australians urged to shop around for surgeons](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/same-surgery-wildly-different-prices-australians-urged-to-shop-around-for-surgeons/) - Australians with health insurance are being urged to ask surgeons about their fees before committing to surgery, amid new data showing enormous differences in what patients are being charged for the same procedure.
- [The real value of health insurance becomes clear when you really need it](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-real-value-of-health-insurance-becomes-clear-when-you-really-need-it/) - Australians enjoy among the highest life expectancies in the world, strong cancer survival rates and relatively low rates of avoidable death. That success is not accidental. It reflects decades of bipartisan support for a model where public and private healthcare work together rather than compete.
- [Ben Harris spoke with ABC Radio Perth about the impact of rebate changes on older people in Western Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ben-harris-spoke-with-abc-radio-perth-about-the-impact-of-rebate-changes-on-older-people-in-western-australia/) - It works to a point, but the issue with younger people on low incomes is they might be able to get higher incomes over time. If you’re older, over 65 on a pension, you’re on a pension, you’re not going to be getting richer over time. And these are the most vulnerable people in our community, and a lot of them are paying for private health insurance and won’t be able to if this change goes through.
- [Older Australians among biggest Budget losers as health insurance rebate cut hits seniors](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/older-australians-among-biggest-budget-losers-as-health-insurance-rebate-cut-hits-seniors/) - More than three million older Australians - including more than 400,000 pensioners with private health insurance - will be hit by the Albanese Government’s decision to cut private health insurance rebates for Australians aged over 65 in tonight’s Federal Budget.
- [Health insurance rebate cut for over 65s will put regional private hospitals at risk](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurance-rebate-cut-for-over-65s-will-put-regional-private-hospitals-at-risk/) - 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.
- [Ben Harris spoke with ABC radio Perth about proposed changes to the health insurance rebate and specialist doctors’ fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ben-harris-spoke-with-abc-radio-perth-about-proposed-changes-to-the-health-insurance-rebate-and-specialist-doctors-fees/) - So Oliver, what the Minister has announced is that an extra rebate which is paid for older Australians will disappear. Now there are 358,000 people with private health insurance who are over 65 in Western Australia, so that's 358,000 people who will be affected. The cost is going to be really quite substantial. So there's an extra rebate, which is an extra 4% if you're between 65 and 69, and an extra 8% if you're over 70. So from the 1st of April next year, your private health insurance will go up the normal amount. This year there was an average of 4%. Plus an extra eight per cent. So if you're on a typical silver couples policy and you're over 70, you're going to get a 12 per cent whack. If you've got a gold policy, they're increasing at a greater rate, and it's going to be a 20 per cent whack at more than $1,000 extra. Now, I get the minister's issues around generational inequity and there are plenty of people over 65 who are quite wealthy. We are really, really worried about people on pensions and people on low incomes who just won't be able to afford their top cover going forward with it. So we've asked the government to look at exempting people on lower incomes.
- [Rachel David spoke ABC radio Cairns about the proposed changes to the health insurance rebate for people over 65](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/rachel-david-spoke-abc-radio-cairns-about-the-proposed-changes-to-the-health-insurance-rebate-for-people-over-65/) - Absolutely, there's a number of people on very low incomes who are struggling to maintain their private health insurance and pay their premiums. The government has suggested that 44,000 will drop their cover as a result of this measure and you know we're worried about that because those people will inevitably go and add to public hospital waiting lists. But perhaps more worrying is the number of people who could downgrade their cover and find that they're not covered for diseases which are quite common in this age group, like joint replacements, and those people will end up using the public hospital system as well. So we really don't think that this is the right way for the government to try and make savings. What it's doing is taking money from people who are taking some responsibility for their own health care and having an impact on the public hospital system where inevitably those people who drop out and downgrade are going to end up.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 2GB about the impact of rebate changes on the health industry](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-2gb-about-the-impact-of-rebate-changes-on-the-health-industry/) - o, we found out about it at roughly the same time that everyone else did during Minister's Press Club address, predominantly on the NDIS. But then this issue of transferring millions of dollars from older Australians into aged care came up. And that is the issue about reducing the government's premium assistance to older Australians. So what that means in practice is that people aged 65 to 69 from next year are going to have an extra premium increase of 5%, which will be about $250 for a standard policy. But people aged over 70, it's going to go up to 11% extra premium, which could be anything from $500 to $700 extra. And in a cost of living crisis where you've got people on low annuities, 400,000 aged pensioners have private health insurance. That's really got to hurt in the hip pocket and it will cause some people to drop out. But my fear is it's going to cause far more people to downgrade their health insurance.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 2GB about the impact of rebate changes on older Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-2gb-about-the-impact-of-rebate-changes-on-older-australians/) - Well, it's going to be very difficult for those people who are going to be hit right in the hip pocket. So it's going to affect about 3 million people. And for people aged 65 to 69, it will be at least a 5% extra premium increase. And for people aged over 70, at least an 11% premium increase, which is up to about $700 in addition to the amount that they're already paying. Now, many of these people have paid for private health insurance over their whole lifetime have barely even claimed and now they're reaching their 60s and 70s and they need to claim. The rug's been pulled out from under their feet and we know from the government's modelling that there's going to be dropouts but what the government hasn't said is how many people are going to downgrade their cover because they want to hang on to it but it means they're not covered for key things that are treated in private hospitals so they'll go public.
- [Seniors face health insurance bill shock of up to $1,600 a year under Government rebate changes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/seniors-face-health-insurance-bill-shock-of-up-to-1600-a-year-under-government-rebate-changes/) - 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.
- [Ben Harris spoke with 3AW about rising specialist doctor fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ben-harris-spoke-with-3aw-about-rising-specialist-doctor-fees/) - Now private health insurance isn't allowed to cover specialists out in the community. We are only allowed to cover specialists in hospital, and we know that doctors in hospitals have increased their out of pocket fees, the bits the patient pay themselves, by 22% over the last three years. That's an average it's actually gone up a lot more than that, but we're seeing in the community stories of people with hundreds of dollars of out of pocket costs, and that's stopping people getting health care at the moment.
- [Health insurers urge government to continue rebate discounts for Australians over 65s on low incomes, including aged pension](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurers-urge-government-to-continue-rebate-discounts-for-australians-over-65s-on-low-incomes-including-aged-pension/) - 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.
- [Cuts to private health insurance rebate disappointing for older Australians, health insurers say](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/cuts-to-private-health-insurance-rebate-disappointing-for-older-australians-health-insurers-say/) - 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.
- [Top health insurance claims revealed: New data shows what Australians use their cover for at every life stage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/top-health-insurance-claims-revealed-new-data-shows-what-australians-use-their-cover-for-at-every-life-stage/) - 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.
- [Rising Gold policy premiums reflect growing healthcare costs and the need for reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/rising-gold-policy-premiums-reflect-growing-healthcare-costs-and-the-need-for-reform/) - 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.
- [Why the government blinked on eye injections – and why we will all pay the $100 million price](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/why-the-government-blinked-on-eye-injections-and-why-we-will-all-pay-the-100-million-price/) - Two years ago, the federal government made what looked like a straightforward, evidence-based decision about how a common medical procedure should be delivered.
- [Health insurance premiums to rise as healthcare costs and claims increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurance-premiums-to-rise-as-healthcare-costs-and-claims-increase/) - Health insurance premiums will rise by an average of 4.41% from April 1, reflecting rising claims and higher costs of delivering healthcare.
- [Ben Harris spoke with 2GB about rising medical specialist fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ben-harris-spoke-with-2gb-about-rising-medical-specialist-fees/) - We are finding more and more Australians are not even getting to the specialist, and we've seen people who are delaying treatment or not going. Some people are even choosing which kid they take to the specialist. People are being put in impossible choices. Now, what we're seeing is really large out of pocket costs for people who are referred from a general practitioner to another medical specialist.
- [Health funds return almost $4.8 billion in savings and givebacks to members, new official figures show](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-return-almost-4-8-billion-in-savings-and-givebacks-to-members-new-official-figures-show/) - Australian private health insurers have returned almost $4.8 billion to members in claims savings and givebacks since the Covid-19 pandemic, independent figures released today show.
- [Half of all health insurance claims for hospital care in 2024 exceeded $10,000, new data shows](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/half-of-all-health-insurance-claims-for-hospital-care-in-2024-exceeded-10000-new-data-shows/) - Health insurers paid out a record $9.4 billion in ‘high claims’ for hospital treatment exceeding $10,000 in 2024, a new analysis of health fund data shows.
- [Need a new hip, knee or heart valve? Five questions to ask your surgeon before an implant](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/need-a-new-hip-knee-or-heart-valve-five-questions-to-ask-your-surgeon-before-an-implant/) - More than a million Australians each year receive a new body part, whether a hip, knee, ankle, heart valve or another implant designed to stay in the body for life. Many of these devices transform lives. But as new technologies race ahead, the rules designed to protect patients haven’t always kept pace.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC radio South Australia about the rising cost of procedures in the private health system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-radio-south-australia-about-the-rising-cost-of-procedures-in-the-private-health-system/) - Well, this is a really difficult problem for the Government to fix, but it is something that the private health sector needs to work with the Government on pretty urgently because the community is hurting on this issue. And we've really, through our work, we've found out that at least one in five people who have been referred to a medical specialist by their GP has not attended because of the cost. And not only is that bad for their health, it's bad for private hospitals that don't get patients through people that should be treated, and it's bad for public hospitals when they turn up in the ED with something badly wrong with them.
- [From $650 to $5,650: The steep rise in specialist doctor fees for common medical procedures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/from-650-to-5650-the-steep-rise-in-specialist-doctor-fees-for-common-medical-procedures/) - Australians are facing soaring medical bills for common private hospital procedures, with some costing nine times more than they did five years ago, data from Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) shows.
- [Data shows more private mental health hospital beds are being added to the system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/data-shows-more-private-mental-health-hospital-beds-are-being-added-to-the-system/) - Data on private hospital licenses and expansions shows Australia’s private mental health sector is continuing to expand.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Radio Hobart about the closure of Hobart Clinic and the issue of soaring medical specialist fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-radio-hobart-about-the-closure-of-hobart-clinic-and-the-issue-of-soaring-medical-specialist-fees/) - Look, the insurers could have doubled what they were paying to the Hobart Clinic, but the hospital would have still failed. So it's not just a matter of fewer people getting in to see a psychiatrist. The psychiatrists themselves have changed how they manage a large number of mental health conditions. A huge amount of this shifted to telehealth, particularly during the pandemic. So it's actually quite rare these days for someone with a moderate severity mental health condition or addiction to be managed in hospital. And we're seeing a number actually of psychiatrists on the mainland offering psychiatric care to people in Tasmania via telehealth, and we don't see any signs that that new clinical model of care, managing someone in the community, is going to change.
- [The ACT Government’s health cash grab is hurting patients](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-act-governments-health-cash-grab-is-hurting-patients/) - Living in Canberra should come with advantages. You pay more for housing, more for groceries, more for fuel — and the trade-off is meant to be better services. Yet when it comes to healthcare, people in the ACT are being ripped off.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 2CC radio Canberra about the ACT’s tax on health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-2cc-radio-canberra-about-the-acts-tax-on-health-insurance/) - Yes, well this is something that's going to affect 65 per cent of Canberrans, that is people with private health insurance. There's been this stealthy tax that is on private health insurance, it's called an ambulance levy although it has nothing to do with ambulances. It's just a tax on private health insurance premiums that goes into revenue and they decided to put it up without any consultation with our sector. We just found out on budget day and the problem with that is that this is one in a long line of hits to people trying to access private health care in Canberra, including some of the highest doctor's fees in Australia. So what we're concerned about is this could really be the straw that breaks the camel's back for people trying to manage these costs.
- [People with health insurance are receiving ‘shock bills’ from ACT public hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/people-with-health-insurance-are-receiving-shock-bills-from-act-public-hospitals/) - ACT residents with private health insurance are being hit with excessive out-of-pocket costs for opting to use their insurance in a public hospital.
- [ACT Government must abandon its secret $180 tax on health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/act-government-must-abandon-its-secret-180-tax-on-health-insurance/) - Canberrans with health insurance will be slugged $180 a year from January – or $360 for families - after the ACT Government quietly increased its so-called ‘ambulance levy’ in this year’s Budget.
- [ACT residents hit with $180 health insurance tax](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/act-health-insurance-tax/) - From January 2026, people with health insurance in the ACT will be forced to pay $180 a year — or $360 for families — under the Barr Government’s unfair health insurance tax.
- [Specialist doctors hit Australians with soaring out-of-pocket bills](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/specialist-doctors-hit-australians-with-soaring-out-of-pocket-bills/) - Australians seeking healthcare in the private sector have been slugged with a 9% surge in hospital out-of-pocket fees over the past year, driven largely by increased charges from medical specialists, data from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) shows.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke to ABC Radio Sydney about the rising cost to specialist doctors in some parts of Australia and what can be done to improve access](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-to-abc-radio-sydney-about-the-rising-cost-to-specialist-doctors-in-some-parts-of-australia-and-what-can-be-done-to-improve-access/) - Well look, since the pandemic drew to a close, we've actually seen quite a marked jump in inflation of doctors' fees, so that we're now seeing some quite extraordinary numbers. Like to see a psychiatrist in the community, some are charging over $900 for a first appointment, $600 for a cardiologist or an obstetrician, and some pretty hefty fees even for things like dermatology in the community. Now one thing that is even more worrying than that is that we're seeing that people are delaying or not pursuing medical specialist referrals because they're worried about the cost. Between 10 and 20 per cent of people, depending on who you ask, the ABS or one of the universities that studied this, have actually said that, look, they were referred to a specialist for a good reason, but they haven't gone because they perceive they can't afford it. The issue for health funds and private health is this is also dampening demand for private hospitals, just as they've been beaten up with the pandemic and the lockdowns. So we're seeing that the number of appointments for a specialist has dropped by 10 per cent even as the population has increased. And our issue from the point of health insurance is we can't cover- legally we can't cover the cost of seeing a doctor in their rooms or in the community. The health insurance only kicks in once you're admitted to hospital.
- [High growth product groups on the Prescribed List](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-growth-product-groups-on-the-prescribed-list/) - This report highlights areas of the Prostheses List where there was high growth between 2022-23 and 2023-24. Changes to MBS service levels are the most common reason for a Prescribed List product group to experience high growth, as expected.
- [Doctors and health funds call for spinal cord stimulators to be banned](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/doctors-and-health-funds-call-for-spinal-cord-stimulators-to-be-banned/) - The Australian Government should ban the use of spinal cord stimulators for pain after research reveals one-in-three people are having revision surgery for complications that can end up costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- [Health insurers working with natural therapists to develop accreditation and claims framework](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurers-working-with-natural-therapists-to-develop-accreditation-and-claims-framework/) - Health funds have welcomed a legislative change today that will allow rebates to be paid for a range of natural therapies clinical treatments.
- [Health insurers lift payments to private hospitals to help them through a difficult period](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurers-lift-payments-to-private-hospitals-to-help-them-through-a-difficult-period/) - Health insurers are delivering hundreds of millions of dollars in additional payments to private hospitals to help them through a challenging period of rising costs and a shift towards more technology driven out-of-hospital care.
- [New descriptor for Accredited Exercise Physiologists starting 1 April 2025](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/new-descriptor-for-accredited-exercise-physiologists-starting-1-april-2025/) - More health fund members will be able to access funded group exercise from April 1 thanks to a change to the schedule of services provided by accredited exercise physiologists.
- [Specialist doctors’ fees threaten the future of private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/specialist-doctors-fees-threaten-the-future-of-private-hospitals/) - The rising cost to see some specialist doctors in the community, such as psychiatrists, obstetricians and cardiologists, is decimating demand for private hospitals and undermining the value of health insurance for 15 million Australians.
- [Ben Harris spoke to ABC radio about why health insurers are investing in more out of hospital care services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ben-harris-spoke-to-abc-radio-about-why-health-insurers-are-investing-in-more-out-of-hospital-care-services/) - Private health funds are already doing a lot in out-of-hospital care and we want to do more. What we need is high quality services. So just yesterday, we've seen Bupa and Ramsay Health Care, Australia's largest hospital provider, put in a new contract, which means they're going to expand out-of-hospital care into people's homes in a whole range of areas, and we need much more of that innovative thinking in the sector.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 2SM radio in Sydney about why access to specialist doctors in the community is affecting private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-2sm-radio-in-sydney-about-why-access-to-specialist-doctors-in-the-community-is-affecting-private-hospitals/) - Yeah, so we're pretty concerned about what's happening to people that are in the community that are in that situation. We're assuming that if they do get sick, they're ending up in a public emergency department, which is not great for anyone. We also think that a number of these people that are not attending have not even checked what the price is. They've just assumed that it's going to be too much, which means that the Federal Government just before the election made an announcement about something called the Medical Costs Finder website, which is a government website, and they said they're going to put up all specialist fees and charges on that site. This is incredibly important because it means that people when they're at their GP, if they raise the issue that cost is going to be a problem for them, their GP can look at the website and pick a more affordable specialist.
- [Access to specialist doctors plummeting as some charge more than $900 for an appointment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/access-to-specialist-doctors-plummeting-as-some-charge-more-than-900-for-an-appointment/) - Medicare data shows the number of Australians consulting medical specialists in the community has fallen 10% over the past five years as some doctors charge more than $900 for a first appointment.
- [Private hospitals receiving record high payments from health insurers as more people take out health cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-hospitals-receiving-record-high-payments-from-health-insurers-as-more-people-take-out-health-cover/) - Private health insurers paid private hospitals a record $12.3 billion for Australians’ health care in the year to March, data released by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority show.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke to ABC Radio Adelaide about funding for private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-to-abc-radio-adelaide-about-funding-for-private-hospitals/) - Health funds have actually, in the contractual process that they're obliged to go through by regulation with hospitals, have given them an additional 7.7 per cent in funding since last year, and that's been about standard throughout that time. So, every year seven, eight per cent on average they've got extra, which is about 4.3 per cent additional funding per person. Now as you can see, that's well above inflation. But also, bear in mind that the Federal Government determines what premium increases the health funds are allowed to raise.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke to 5AA radio in Adelaide about the high fees some surgeons are charging patients for hip replacements](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-to-5aa-radio-in-adelaide-about-the-high-fees-some-surgeons-are-charging-patients-for-hip-replacements/) - What we're pushing for, and the Federal Government has said prior to the election that they're open to reform, is for people to get a single quote before they have surgery or well before they have surgery so they have the chance to plan for if there are any out-of-pocket costs. Rather than the drip pricing that goes on, where it really is they've got actually no idea what they're going to be up for until, sometimes, even after the surgery.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke to ABC radio Canberra about rising out-of-pocket costs in the private health system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-to-abc-radio-canberra-about-rising-out-of-pocket-costs-in-the-private-health-system/) - Well, look, there is huge variation in out-of-pocket fees around Australia for exactly the same procedure and for doctors with the same level of qualifications. The reason that regions like the ACT pay more is because they are away from the big capital cities so the number of doctors is constrained and there's less competition. But particularly in the ACT, household incomes are higher than average, and so there's a perception that the market can bear higher prices. But for people in a cost of living crisis, what they don't have is visibility on the fact that if they were prepared to drive two or three hours, they could actually get a much better deal.
- [Health funds welcome plan to reveal thousands of specialist doctors’ fees for the first time](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-welcome-plan-to-reveal-thousands-of-specialist-doctors-fees-for-the-first-time/) - About 11,000 specialist doctors will be obliged to publish their fees on the Government’s Medical Costs Finder website in a big win for consumers.
- [Health funds call for urgent action to crack down on inflated specialist doctor fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-call-for-urgent-action-to-crack-down-on-inflated-specialist-doctor-fees/) - Too many Australians are being hit with unexpected medical bills and excessive fees from specialist doctors who are sometimes charging more than $950 for a single appointment.
- [Health funds offer rescue package to private hospitals in genuine need](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-offer-rescue-package-to-private-hospitals-in-genuine-need/) - Health funds have today put forward a proposal offering short-term financial assistance for private hospitals in areas of need that are providing essential services for health fund members.
- [Facts about health insurance and private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/facts-about-phi-and-private-hospitals/) - Australian health funds reject claims from Healthscope and its North American private equity owner, Brookfield, in advertisements running today. This campaign is designed to pressure Australian health funds and the Australian Government into bailing out Brookfield from bad business decisions, including the underpayment of Australian staff.
- [Former Victorian Premier John Brumby appointed Independent Chair of Private Healthcare Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/former-victorian-premier-john-brumby-appointed-independent-chair-of-private-healthcare-australia/) - Private Healthcare Australia has appointed former Victorian Premier, John Brumby, to the position of Independent Chair.
- [Health insurance membership grows despite cost-of-living pressures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurance-membership-grows-despite-cost-of-living-pressures/) - A growing number of Australians are investing in health insurance so they can receive fast, high-quality healthcare with their choice of doctor in the private system, new data from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) shows.
- [Health funds keep premium rise under health inflation but rising  costs remain a challenge](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-keep-premium-rise-under-health-inflation-but-rising-costs-remain-a-challenge/) - Private health insurance premiums will increase by an average 3.73% this year. The increase, announced by Federal Health Minister Mark Butler today, is still below health inflation and will be passed on to health insurance members on April 1.
- [Health funds call for new model of private hospital maternity care to make it more affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-call-for-new-model-of-private-hospital-maternity-care-to-make-it-more-affordable/) - Australian midwives and GPs should be allowed to manage pregnancies and births in the private hospital system under a new proposal that would see health insurers funding more options for expecting families.
- [Health funds are supporting their members with alternative maternity care options](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-are-supporting-their-members-with-alternative-maternity-care-options/) - Health funds are supporting their members with alternative arrangements for maternity care in the Northern Territory and Tasmania after Healthscope announced it was closing private maternity services.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke to ABC radio Hobart about the viability of private maternity units](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-to-abc-radio-hobart-about-the-viability-of-private-maternity-units/) - But it's a bit more complicated than that. Money won't actually solve this problem. The issue is that there are fewer births now because the economy is not as good as it was. There is a workforce shortage of skilled obstetricians, midwives and nurses, which is affecting that Healthscope Hospital, as well as hospitals all around the country. And furthermore, the cost of seeing an obstetrician in their rooms to manage the pregnancy and then, say, in the nine months leading up to the actual birth in hospital, is only allowed to be covered by Medicare, not by private health insurance. And the out-of-pocket that are charged by obstetricians can be above 5,000- between $5000 and $10,000, and, in a cost of living crisis that just completely puts people off. So, there's multiple factors that are playing into this and hospitals, private or public, have to be able to do a certain number of births every year to be considered a safe place to give birth.
- [Record $8.5 billion paid by Australian health funds for hospital high claims](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/record-8-5-billion-paid-by-australian-health-funds-for-hospital-high-claims/) - Health funds paid out a record $8.5 billion in hospital high claims for members in 2023, an analysis of data by Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) reveals.
- [Health funds will work with the Federal Government to address problems with Gold cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-will-work-with-the-federal-government-to-address-problems-with-gold-cover/) - Health funds will work with the Federal Government to thoroughly examine problems with Gold health insurance products following the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s public statement today.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke to 6PR radio about the viability of private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-to-6pr-radio-about-the-viability-of-private-hospitals/) - Well, look, we read the report that was put out by the APHA, which is a group that represents some of the private hospitals. And our first reaction was really that it was a bit tone deaf. What they're doing is they're asking people who have paid their premiums and paid top dollar for their health insurance to start paying extra fees to be treated in a private hospital, right in the middle of a cost of living crisis. Now, the health funds are not going to let that happen, and the federal government's not going to let that happen. In fact, the federal government has just done a viability review of private hospitals which showed that on average their profits, even in what was a pretty tough year for everyone, '22-'23, was a margin of 7 to 8 per cent. And what they seem to be asking for in this proposal is a margin of 25 per cent, which absolutely no business is getting out there in the economy at the moment. And we understand that they've done it tough, like in the pandemic and in the inflationary environment after like every other business has in Australia. But the answer is not to grab more money out of consumers' pockets. It just won't work. People will drop their health insurance, they'll stop using the private sector and they'll be no better off.
- [NSW government backs down on health tax in new agreement with health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/nsw-government-backs-down-on-health-tax-in-new-agreement-with-health-funds/) - The Minns Labor Government has backed down on a health tax that would result in an immediate rise to the cost of health insurance for four million NSW residents.
- [Young people flocking to health insurance despite cost-of-living crisis](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/young-people-flocking-to-health-insurance-despite-cost-of-living-crisis/) - Hundreds of thousands of Australians have taken out health insurance for hospital treatment over the past year, demonstrating strong demand for private healthcare despite the cost-of-living crisis.
- [Healthscope rips up contracts with private health insurers so it can gouge Australian patients and increase profits for North American private equity owners](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/healthscope-rips-up-contracts-with-private-health-insurers-so-it-can-gouge-australian-patients-and-increase-profits-for-north-american-private-equity-owners/) - Within months of signing contracts with health funds representing 50% of Australia’s private health insurance market, Healthscope has announced it is ripping up the legally binding agreements and will start charging patients who use its hospitals from early next year.
- [Thousands of health insurance members may have been over-charged by specialist doctors](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/thousands-of-health-insurance-members-may-have-been-over-charged-by-specialist-doctors/) - Health insurers are urging people who have had surgery in private hospitals to check if they have been billed incorrectly under ‘no gap fee’ arrangements following allegations specialist doctors have been systematically defrauding patients, health funds and Medicare for personal financial gain.
- [774 ABC radio interview with Dr Rachel David about the value of health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/774-abc-radio-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-about-the-value-of-health-insurance/) - Look, we're not really looking for affection, but look, we are not a necessary evil either. We are an essential part of Australia's health system. The health funds pay for 70 per cent of the elective or planned surgery that takes place in Australia, and 54 per cent of the mental health admissions. So I think this idea that it's not value for money and is some kind of blight on Australia is really not true. And if you look at how Australia's health system, its mixed private and public health system ranks in terms of health outcomes compared to other economies around the world, we're number one. The UK health system, which has minimal private health insurance is way down the list, as is the US health system that doesn't have the universal health care that Medicare provides. So we're doing really well as a consequence of having the private element.
- [Nurse practitioners a solution to private hospital workforce woes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/nurse-practitioners-a-solution-to-private-hospital-workforce-woes/) - Nurse practitioners should be given more responsibilities in private hospitals under Medicare to ease a shortage of medical specialists, the peak body for health funds says.
- [Fibrin sealant medicines will continue to be funded by private health insurers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fibrin-sealant-medicines-will-continue-to-be-funded-by-private-health-insurers/) - Fibrin sealant medicines will continue to be funded by private health insurers. Suggestions in the media today that health funds will not pay for fibrin sealant medicines from 1 November in private hospitals are completely false.
- [Healthscope accused of ‘unethical new low’ to extort money from Australians with health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/healthscope-accused-of-unethical-new-low-to-extort-money-from-australians-with-health-insurance/) - Healthscope hospitals, the second largest private hospital group in Australia owned by North American private equity group Brookfield, has announced it will charge up to $100 to patients for simply walking into its facilities.
- [The NSW Government’s health tax is bad news for private hospitals: peak body for health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-nsw-governments-health-tax-is-bad-news-for-private-hospitals-peak-body-for-health-funds/) - The NSW Government’s new tax on 4 million people with health insurance will exacerbate problems for private hospitals at a critical time for the sector. CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David, said the tax will cost NSW families $156 more per year for their health cover from as early as January. Modelling shows this will cause 75,000 people to drop their health insurance in 2025, reducing demand for private hospitals. It will also decimate health fund reserves to assist private hospitals in areas of need in acute financial distress.
- [Minns Government’s new health insurance tax adds extra cost-of-living pressure on 4m people](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/minns-governments-new-health-insurance-tax-adds-extra-cost-of-living-pressure-on-4m-people/) - NSW families struggling through cost-of-living pressures will have to pay more for private health insurance after the Minns Government’s new health tax was passed by the NSW Legislative Council. The tax will hit lower income earners the hardest from early next year after being rushed through NSW Parliament this week following minimal public scrutiny.
- [Health insurance will cost more in NSW than any other state under Minns’ tax hike](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurance-will-cost-more-in-nsw-than-any-other-state-under-minns-tax-hike/) - Health insurance will become more expensive in NSW than any other state under the Minns Government’s health tax, which will hit families with a new $156 bill from next year. Health funds are calling on the NSW Legislative Council to vote against the Minns Government’s Health Insurance Levies Amendment Bill 2024, which will almost double a little-known tax on health insurance for people in NSW.
- [2GB interview with Dr Rachel David about the NSW Government's health tax](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-about-the-nsw-governments-health-tax/) - Well, you're paying twice already, both through your taxes, through Medicare and through your private health insurance. What the Labor- what the Minns Government has done last week is they've introduced legislation to make- to really make 4 million people with private health insurance in New South Wales pay a third time. They've introduced an extra tax on private health insurance. This stuff about the bed rate is a complete misdirection. It's straight- it's a straight revenue grab. As you and anyone else who's been admitted to a public hospital well knows, there are no single rooms routinely made available for private patients coming to emergency departments. That is just a distraction. The problem that we have is that the Government has introduced legislation to increase premiums for people with private health insurance, on average, $156 for a family right in the middle of a cost of living crisis. And look, I think that's pretty cruel for people who are already paying for the New South Wales health system through their taxes. And they're trying to do the right thing by paying a little bit extra through their private health insurance.
- [Minns Government reveals plan for new $156 health tax to hit NSW families next year](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/minns-government-reveals-plan-for-new-156-health-tax-to-hit-nsw-families-next-year/) - The NSW Government has finally revealed the details of its secret plan to nearly double a health tax on 4 million people with health insurance in NSW. This will create a new bill of $156 for families in NSW from next year.
- [Mookhey’s health tax will hit 4 million people with a $114 bill next year](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/mookheys-health-tax-will-hit-4-million-people-with-a-114-bill-next-year/) - The NSW Government’s plan to introduce legislation today for a new $114 tax on 4 million people with health cover will cause a new level of financial distress across NSW, causing thousands to drop their health insurance in a cost-of-living crisis.
- [Consumers downgrade private health insurance as cost-of-living pressure bites](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers-downgrade-private-health-insurance-as-cost-of-living-pressure-bites/) - In the face of ongoing cost-of-living pressures, Australians wanting to retain their private health insurance are downgrading or dropping their cover, new data suggests.
- [Tens of thousands of people with health insurance are receiving ‘shock bills’ from NSW public hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tens-of-thousands-of-people-with-health-insurance-are-receiving-shock-bills-from-nsw-public-hospitals/) - NSW residents with private health insurance are being hit with excessive out-of-pocket costs for opting to use their insurance in a public hospital. In some cases, these bills are exceeding $10,000.
- [NSW Government must abandon health tax for 4 million people with health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/nsw-government-must-abandon-health-tax-for-4-million-people-with-health-insurance/) - The NSW Government must abandon its plan to tax 4 million people contributing to their own healthcare via health insurance in NSW. These people are taking pressure off the state’s overwhelmed public hospital system which has the highest wait times for surgery in Australia.
- [Australians with health insurance will not lose access to private hospitals: peak body for health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-with-health-insurance-will-not-lose-access-to-private-hospitals-peak-body-for-health-funds/) - Australians with health insurance will not lose access to private hospitals, despite a scare campaign launched today by Healthscope and its private equity owner, Brookfield, to mislead consumers.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses concerns about people using their superannuation for medical treatment on ABC radio Sydney](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-concerns-about-people-using-their-superannuation-for-medical-treatment-on-abc-radio-sydney/) - Well, look, we've seen this very big increase really since the Morrison government drew attention to it by allowing people to take out $20,000 fairly early in the pandemic. It is something that people- you can basically fill in some forms and apply to the tax office to take out your super early on medical grounds. But what is concerning us about this is that traditionally, this was really used for the people at the end of life, when they really had two- 18 months to two years left. But now, we're seeing it used a lot for cosmetic surgery and for some procedures like spine surgery and weight loss surgery that have a very high failure, and also attract high out-of-pocket costs. And the rate that it's happening now, we're seeing it actually contribute to the rapid inflation of medical out-of-pocket costs in these areas.
- [Draining superannuation for medical treatment is driving up costs for all Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/draining-superannuation-for-medical-treatment-is-driving-up-costs-for-all-australians/) - Allowing tens of thousands of people to drain their superannuation for medical and dental treatment each year is driving up costs for all consumers and should be stopped, the peak body for health funds says.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses the Healthscope campaign on ABC Radio Adelaide](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-healthscope-campaign-on-abc-radio-adelaide/) - Yes, but the number is going up and it will increase again this year. So we are continuing to pay hospitals more. We are continuing to pay hospitals in a way that permits them to keep up with inflation. But don't forget also what the root cause of the problem is for Healthscope, and it's their owner, Brookfield. Brookfield is a trillion-dollar global company that purchased these hospitals for way above the price the market expected. It sold the hospitals and the lion's share of the profits went back to North America. And then it entered into a lease back agreement, which meant that- which didn't take account of rising interest rates. So now it has a problem with debt, and it is completely unreasonable for Brookfield and Healthscope to expect that health funds and their members, which are Australian mums and dads struggling with a cost-of-living crisis, are going to dig them out of that hole. It is completely self-inflicted. It has nothing to do with private health funds in Australia, and it's not fair for them to expect Australian households to bail them out.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses the Healthscope campaign on 6PR radio](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-healthscope-campaign-on-6pr-radio/) - Well, look, that is simply not true. We're in a cost of living crisis right now. And the first thing that I'd say is that our responsibility as health funds is to our 15 million members, and we are not going to take any action that's going to result in big premium increases next year. Our sole focus is keeping downward pressure on premiums.
- [New data shows private health insurer funding for private hospitals reaches all-time high](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/new-data-shows-private-health-insurer-funding-for-private-hospitals-reaches-all-time-high/) - Health fund payments to hospitals surged 8% over the past year as an increasing number of Australians turned to private hospitals for rapid access to care, including elective surgery.
- [New podiatry schedule starting 1 September 2024 and FAQs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/podiatry-schedule-faq/) - Private Healthcare Australia and the Australian Podiatry Association have produced a new schedule of services for the thousands of podiatrists delivering health care to health fund members in Australia.
- [Why Australian health funds have returned $4.3 billion to members since 2020](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/why-australian-health-funds-have-returned-4-3-billion-to-members-since-2020/) - When the pandemic hit Australia and reduced access to health services, health funds quickly looked for new ways to deliver services and value to people with health insurance. This started with a promise not to profit from the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions, with health funds committing to return all savings from fewer claims to members. No other health sector group made this promise.
- [More action needed to protect patients from harmful medical devices following TGA crack down on spinal cord stimulators](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/more-action-needed-to-protect-patients-from-harmful-medical-devices-following-tga-crack-down-on-spinal-cord-stimulators/) - Doctors should be legally obliged to report adverse events involving medical devices to the Therapeutic Goods Administration to help protect patients from harmful products and procedures.
- [PHA commends nib’s Mark Fitzgibbon for exceptional commitment to Australian healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-commends-nibs-mark-fitzgibbon-for-exceptional-commitment-to-australian-healthcare/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) congratulates retiring nib Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Mark Fitzgibbon on his outstanding contribution to the private health insurance industry and to improving healthcare options for Australians over more than two decades.
- [Dr Rachel David on ABC Radio Adelaide discusses the value of private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-on-abc-radio-adelaide-discusses-the-value-of-the-private-health-insurance/) - Well, look, we've seen really strong growth in private health insurance membership and participation since 2020. And that's related to a couple of things. One, it's strongly related to immigration. But also, people really- a fall-off in confidence of the public hospital system because of several things.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses private maternity care on radio 6PR](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-private-maternity-care-on-radio-6pr/) - Well, look, I think if you actually look at what the health funds have done, they've increased their payments to private hospitals by 11 per cent over the last year. And, really, we all understand that private hospitals, like every other business in Australia, have been knocked around by the pandemic and the lockdowns and the subsequent issues with inflation and the economy that have occurred. But I do take issue with this notion that the system is in a state of collapse.
- [Obstetricians urged to reduce fees for private maternity care in a cost-of-living crisis](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/obstetricians-urged-to-reduce-fees-for-private-maternity-care-in-a-cost-of-living-crisis/) - Obstetricians are charging some of the highest out of pocket fees of all doctors in Australia – this is the major barrier to people choosing private maternity services, the peak body for health funds says.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC radio Melbourne about the value of health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-radio-melbourne-about-the-value-of-health-insurance/) - Well, look, it really depends on your stage of life. But let me start by saying that for every dollar that you pay in premiums to a health insurance fund, you get $0.86 back on average, which is way higher than any other form of insurance. I think the next level is general insurance, which is $0.65 in the dollar. And- but for different people at different stages of life, the value is achieved in different ways.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with FiveAA radio in South Australia about the state of the private health system.](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-fiveaa-radio-in-south-australia-about-the-state-of-the-private-health-system/) - And what I wanted to do was to really reassure the community in South Australia, that certainly from what we're seeing as health funds, no one is waiting or being denied treatment in a private hospital in South Australia. So I just wanted to make that point very clear. Our first duty is to our members in health funds and to ensure that the system is accessible to our members. So that means keeping premiums affordable, but also ensuring access to quality private hospitals. And there's just no evidence that's not happening in South Australia.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Radio Adelaide on PHI and private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-radio-adelaide-on-phi-and-private-hospitals/) - And if you recall, during the pandemic, we had three or four years of lockdowns and times when there was no elective surgery. And when cash accumulated for the health funds during that period, they immediately agreed to give it back to their members. $4.4 billion were returned to members, rather than being retained as profits, and no other sector in all of Australia made that commitment.
- [Parliament calls out Australia’s diabetes crisis, while soaring insulin pump prices cost patients double](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/parliament-calls-out-australias-diabetes-crisis-while-soaring-insulin-pump-prices-cost-patients-double/) - “In a cost of living crisis and with health expenditure increasing unsustainably, the commitment of our Federal Members of Parliament to the prevention and better management of diabetes should be applauded. Changes to ensure we are investing in the right things to keep people well and out of hospital are well overdue. The time to act is now,” said Dr David.
- [Australian Health Funds best placed to deliver access to much needed dental care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-health-funds-best-placed-to-deliver-access-to-much-needed-dental-care/) - Australian health funds are ideally placed to deliver a future government scheme to increase access to dental services for the most vulnerable in the community, given health funds are the major funding source for dental care and have an unequalled track record keeping out of pockets costs under control.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David discusses the Government's review into private hospitals on ABC RN](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-governments-review-into-private-hospitals-on-abc-rn/) - The health funds have done their best in their contracts with private hospitals to keep up with inflation, and including actually paying them in between their normal contractual processes to top up their funding to some extent. But what we can't have is a situation where we're faced with a sudden spike in premiums or premium increases because we've been asked to bail out a sector without getting the right information first.
- [Exorbitant out of pocket costs charged to ACT consumers need urgent investigation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/exorbitant-out-of-pocket-costs-charged-to-act-consumers-need-urgent-investigation/) - The Australian Government must urgently investigate why ACT residents are paying at least 50 percent more in out of pocket costs than consumers living in other parts of the country.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC's Steve Austin on accessing super for dental treatment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abcs-steve-austin-on-accessing-super-for-dental-treatment/) - Well, look, it's been getting more and more common for people to draw down on their super early to pay for dental and some medical bills. And look, we think this is turning into a real problem whereby some vulnerable people are getting exploited, and also the release of this money early is actually causing the costs of some of these hard-to-access procedures to inflate. We're seeing a lot of price gouging out there, and we're seeing a lot of reports of health professionals, both medical and dental, actually encouraging patients to do this and providing financial advice themselves, which is a massive conflict of interest.
- [PHA’s CEO Dr Rachel David spoke with radio 5aa about the implications of withdrawing super for dental and medical treatment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phas-ceo-dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-radio-5aa-about-the-implications-of-withdrawing-super-for-dental-and-medical-treatment/) - Yeah. Well, look, it is, and I think one thing that we've noticed is because the bar for early access to super on medical grounds has been set so low, we've seen a lot of people taking out all their retirement savings to pay for everything from dental care, restorative dentistry, weight loss surgery, some cosmetic procedures, and so forth. And the trouble with that is, is that that in itself is causing inflation in the cost of these things and these treatments, including inflation in the out-of-pocket. So when- during the previous government there was a large amount of super was able to be- was released into the community and the rules were dropped for a while. That immediately caused a spike in out-of-pocket costs for a number of these hard-to-access treatments.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Radio Brisbane about out-of-pocket costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-radio-brisbane-to-discuss-out-of-pocket-costs/) - But when it comes to doctors, under Australian law, doctors can set their own fees and charge whatever they like, and health funds will pay a proportion of that to try and eliminate as much of the gap as possible. But what they can't do is chase ever increasing or very rapidly increasing fees, because that means that it will put upward pressure on premiums for everyone.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 2GB on the 40th anniversary of Medicare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-2gb-on-the-40th-anniversary-of-medicare/) - But I think the system has evolved so that private health insurance and Medicare coexist actually as part of the same system, because what they're doing is- what private health is doing at the moment is it's funding the lion's share of planned or elective surgery. That means that the public hospitals don't have to put those people on waiting lists.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with Radio 6PR on price gouging and rising out of pocket fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-radio-6pr-on-price-gouging-and-rising-out-of-pocket-fees/) - There's calls to name and shame the doctors who are gouging their patients. Specialist doctors' fees should be published on the Government's Medical Costs Finder website according to Private Healthcare Australia. As the ACCC has found that out of pocket fees charged by specialists - such as surgeons and cardiologists - have increased by more than 50 per cent over the last decade.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Radio Perth about PHI premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-radio-perth-about-phi-premium-increases/) - One of the things we're grappling with, however is, as the Minister correctly identified, the cost of hospital care is going up. So not only are the number of procedures going up that we need to fund, the cost of those procedures is increasing and that's because of inflation in the areas of recruitment, power and food that's impacting hospitals. And so, fortunately, as a result of the process that we've been through we've been able to contain the cost of health insurance significantly below inflation and also below some of the really stratospheric rises we've seen in some other insurance types.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses health inflation and premiums on ABC Radio Canberra](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-health-inflation-and-premiums-on-abc-radio-canberra/) - The premium setting process that we undertake with the Federal Government is a very highly controlled process. There's more than one regulator involved. So there's APRA, the prudential regulator that goes through the figures with a fine tooth comb to ensure the funds can meet all their obligations under the law; and then the Department of Health that, as a regulator, also goes through the same process to ensure that the funds are behaving appropriately in terms of the health sector.
- [Dr Rachel David discussed rising out of pocket costs and premiums with ABC Gold Coast Morning Show](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discussed-rising-out-of-pocket-costs-and-premiums-with-abc-gold-coast-morning-show/) - So look, it has been very thoroughly considered, and the public interest has been taken into account and including the cost of living crisis. But what- we are treading a bit of a fine line because a lot of the providers, so the hospitals and the medical practices that health insurance pays for, they've been hard hit by inflation as well. So a hospital has to pay for greatly increased costs of recruitment, power and food, and we have to be able to meet those costs to ensure that we can continue to offer quality services in the private sector. So that's why premiums do need to go up by a bit this year.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses the impact of inflation on hospitals and premiums on ABC Radio Brisbane](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-impact-of-inflation-on-hospitals-and-premiums-on-abc-radio-brisbane/) - Well, look, this is part of the issue that the Federal Government and the health funds consider during the premium round process. So the private hospitals were invited to make submissions into that process about their own costs and the pressures that they were under during the pandemic, which we acknowledge. We acknowledge that the pandemic was tough on the private hospital sector. And then after the pandemic, they've had to contend with the inflationary pressures on wages, recruitment, power and food. And so that is acknowledged. There is a robust process by which health funds contract with hospitals to ensure that patients don't have gaps on their hospitals
- [Dr Rachel David discusses patients being pressured to use their private health insurance in public hospitals on Radio 5AA](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-patients-being-pressured-to-use-their-private-health-insurance-in-public-hospitals-on-radio-5aa/) - But what I think is at issue here is the behaviour of the clerks or the frontline workers that are going around talking to patients and getting them to sign documents, which, as you mentioned, the lady yesterday said that she didn't fully understand. And that's a problem for a couple of reasons. If there's any coercion at all in that interaction, then that's not appropriate. Sick people should not be coerced into signing anything under duress. And that includes- some people that we've seen have actually had private claims made against their name when they're a public hospital when they've been completely incapacitated.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 5AA on the Four Corners investigation into spine surgery for back pain](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-5aa-on-the-four-corners-investigation-into-spine-surgery-for-back-pain/) - Well, look, we have seen the report that the ABC is referring to, and I understand that they will be making it public later today. And it shows that not only are these procedures very expensive, but they're being performed on some people for whom they're seriously not a good idea - like people who are very elderly, frail, and where surgery has no chance of reducing their pain or disability. And furthermore, in association with those procedures, there has been massive overuse of medical devices which are overpriced, and some fraudulent behaviour of some of the clinicians concerned.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Radio Brisbane about private hospitals and gold cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-speaks-with-abc-radio-brisbane-re-private-hospitals-and-gold-cover/) - So we are seeing very strong demand for surgery in the private sector at the moment. And we're not seeing any problems with private hospitals filling their beds with surgical patients, but particularly for planned surgery as it's pretty hard to get access to a hospital waiting list at the moment.
- [Draining superannuation for dental care is driving up costs for all Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/draining-superannuation-for-dental-care-is-driving-up-costs-for-all-australians/) - Allowing thousands of Australians to drain their superannuation for dental care is driving up the cost of dentistry for all consumers and should be stopped, the peak body for health funds says.
- [Keeping premiums affordable keeps pressure off public hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/keeping-premiums-affordable-keeps-pressure-off-public-hospitals/) - Half of all Australians continue to rely on private health insurance for quality care, greater access and control over the timing of their treatment. Over 14.8 million people now have private health cover.
- [Prescribed list wind back risks higher health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/prescribed-list-wind-back-risks-higher-health-insurance-premiums/) - The Federal Government’s decision to wind-back the planned removal of general use items from the Prescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue (PL) on 1 July is likely to impact the cost of private health insurance premiums for 15 million Australians.
- [Government must stop compelling health insurance funds to pay for ineffective medical care and dangerous, discredited medical devices](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/government-must-stop-compelling-health-insurance-funds-to-pay-for-ineffective-medical-care-and-dangerous-discredited-medical-devices/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) is calling for the immediate recall and suspension of spinal cord stimulators to protect public safety, pending an investigation by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
- [Fraud, waste and abuse rife in Australia’s ‘back pain industry’](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud-waste-and-abuse-rife-in-australias-back-pain-industry/) - An investigation by ABC Four Corners into spinal surgery has exposed serious risks to patients and the shocking extent of fraud, waste and abuse in Australia’s ‘back pain industry’.
- [Health funds keep premium rise under inflation but rising costs remain a challenge](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/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%.
- [Ben Harris joined Seven News First at 4pm to discuss out-of-pocket costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ben-harris-joined-seven-news-first-at-4pm-to-discuss-out-of-pocket-costs/) - There are a number of things around transparency. Doctors actually telling patients what they're going to be up for is absolutely vital. The government has a website, Medical Cost Finder, where you can actually look up the common procedures to see what sort of out of pocket costs you'd expect
- [Price gouging doctors should be named and shamed](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/price-gouging-doctors-should-be-named-and-shamed/) - 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.
- [Health funds pay record amount for healthcare in 2023 as member claims exceed pre COVID levels](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-pay-record-amount-for-healthcare-in-2023-as-member-claims-exceed-pre-covid-levels/) - 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.
- [Consumers urged to be cautious about spinal cord stimulators for pain](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers-urged-to-be-cautious-about-spinal-cord-stimulators-for-pain/) - CEO of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Rachel David said a survey of consumers published today by Pain Australia should be interpreted with extreme caution because it was commissioned and fully funded by the Neuromodulation Society of Australia - a group representing the providers of spinal cord stimulators.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 6PR about health inflation and Australia’s community rating system for health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-6pr-about-health-inflation-and-australias-community-rating-system-for-health-insurance/) - We really understand that consumers are doing it tough. But what the price rises reflect is the underlying cost of health care, particularly the cost of treatment in hospital, which has grown really significantly in the last year, as people have caught up on surgery that was put off during the pandemic, and more older people have joined a health fund.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 2GB’s Luke Grant about factors affecting premiums for 2024 and concerns about spinal cord stimulators](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-2gbs-luke-grant-about-factors-affecting-premiums-for-2024-and-concerns-about-spinal-cord-stimulators/) - The health funds keep their profits pretty stable. And the reason they do that is that their profits are scrutinised and regulated by the Federal Government. You can't set up a health fund and say, well, look I'm going to make- and register it as a health benefits organisation with APRA so forth, and then say, well, look, I'm going to make 20 per cent profit. They just wouldn't let you do it. It's a highly regulated and scrutinised industry...
- [Vaping lands 178 people in hospital including children](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/vaping-lands-178-people-in-hospital-including-children/) - The latest data from Private Healthcare Australia – the peak body for health insurers - reveals seven children aged under 15 were hospitalised due to a vaping related disorder or injury since 2020, including a two-year-old. Another 19 young people aged 15 – 24 required hospital treatment connected to vaping. The average time spent in hospital was 5.6 days.
- [Health funds call for ‘surprise billing law’ as new data reveals soaring out-of-pocket costs for medical procedures.](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-call-for-surprise-billing-law-as-new-data-reveals-soaring-out-of-pocket-costs-for-medical-procedures/) - 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.
- [Ben Harris spoke with ABC Radio Sydney about out-of-pocket costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/22039-2/) - So for planned surgery like a cataract, hip surgery or something like a mental health admission, it's really important people have choice, and people are prepared to pay private health insurance to have their choice so they can get the care they need when they need it.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 5AA Mornings about out-of-pocket costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-5aa-mornings-about-out-of-pocket-costs/) - We have seen quite a marked increase in out-of-pocket costs for people attending hospital to have common procedures over the last few years, or over the last five years, and I think there's some very clear reasons for that. One is the amount of money that was in the system in terms of government benefits through JobKeeper and so forth and savings during the pandemic, and the fact that doctors started to work fewer hours and charge higher out-of-pocket at that time to make up the difference.
- [Medicare has served us well but it’s time for a mid-life health check](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medicare-has-served-us-well-but-its-time-for-a-mid-life-health-check/) - 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.
- [Record PHI membership, record claims and the risk of higher premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/record-phi-membership-record-claims-and-the-risk-of-higher-premiums/) - More Australians than ever before are relying on private health insurance for their healthcare needs. Timely access to surgery, mental health treatment, and flexible, convenient care options has seen more than one million Australians sign up since January 2020 and the latest APRA data shows that almost 14.7 million people (55.1% of the population) now have private health cover.
- [Health insurance premiums must rise to cover inflation and soaring use of hospital services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurance-premiums-must-rise-to-cover-inflation-and-soaring-use-of-hospital-services/) - Inflation and soaring use of private healthcare will affect the cost of health insurance over the next year, but health funds are doing everything they can to keep premiums as low as possible for Australians. Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said health funds’ submissions to Government to increase health insurance premiums for 2024 reflect inflation, record claims over the past year, and essential costs such as IT upgrades to combat the ever-growing threat of cyber-attacks.
- [Australia’s Surgical Surcharge: <em>How Australians are paying too much for medical devices through the Prescribed List of Medical Devices</em>](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australias-surgical-surcharge-how-australians-are-paying-too-much-for-medical-devices-through-the-prescribed-list-of-medical-devices/) - A new report by Mandala shows the damaging impact overpricing of generic medical devices has on Australia’s health system and private health insurance premiums.
- [<em>There’s no place like home – reforming out-of-hospital care</em>](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/theres-no-place-like-home-reforming-out-of-hospital-care/) - A significant refocus of Australia’s health system on the provision of healthcare outside hospital settings will be critical to its long term sustainability, and ensuring it meets the demands of 21st century Australia, a landmark report has found.
- [Australian health funds lead business response to climate change](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-health-funds-lead-business-response-to-climate-change/) - Private Healthcare Australia applauds the Australian Government’s commitment to a National Health and Climate Strategy. “This is an important step in ensuring Australians understand and take responsibility for the actions we take to reduce emissions and waste,” said Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David.
- [Report finds PHI vital in combatting pandemic’s ongoing effects & delivering mental health care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/report-finds-phi-vital-in-combatting-pandemics-ongoing-effects-delivering-mental-health-care/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Annual High Claims Report released today, demonstrates the strong value of private health insurance for Australians, including many who needed care for COVID-19 and mental illness.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Adelaide about Gold/Silver/Bronze tiering](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-adelaide-about-gold-silver-bronze-tiering/) - Well, the previous Federal Government introduced the tiers - Gold, Silver, Bronze and Basic - because they were advised that this would help make a complex system easier for people to understand, so they knew what they were getting. And yes, that's actually true. We do know that it has made it easier for people. But the problem is that the tiering at the back end is very rigid. And it means that what's happened is that at the top end, you've got a specific group of people who are either very sick or who know they're going to claim, and so the risk in that top hospital cover is so bad or the risk of high costs is so bad, it means that the costs of the premiums for that group are actually much higher and escalating faster.
- [PHI membership at all time high but inflation and overpriced medical devices threaten affordability](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-membership-at-all-time-high-but-inflation-and-overpriced-medical-devices-threaten-affordability/) - Following 12 consecutive quarters of sustained growth, Private Health Insurance (PHI) membership in Australia is at an all-time high. Nearly 14.6 million Australians have private health cover according to the latest APRA data.
- [Australia needs a modern health system – fit for the 21st century](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australia-needs-a-modern-health-system-fit-for-the-21st-century/) - Australia’s population is ageing. A sustainable health system has never been more important. It will enable people to live not only longer lives, but healthier lives, and importantly contribute to productivity.
- [Minister Butler’s Prescriptions Policy Announcement Will Benefit Consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/minister-butlers-prescriptions-policy-announcement-will-benefit-consumers/) - Private Healthcare Australia today backed the Albanese Government’s plans for 60-day medication prescriptions.
- [865,000 Australians flock to PHI but Government must act to keep premiums affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/865000-australians-flock-to-phi-but-government-must-act-to-keep-premiums-affordable/) - Australians are choosing private health insurance in record numbers, according to the latest data from the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA). Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David welcomed the increase, saying that private health cover provides choice, comfort and security. However, she also called on government to ensure that customers don’t have to pay more than they should.
- [<strong>“There’s no place like home.”</strong><br><small><em><strong>Landmark report finds funding for flexible and convenient models of healthcare is vital for a modern 21st century health system.</strong></em></small>](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/theres-no-place-like-home/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) today released its There’s no place like home – reforming out-of-hospital care report which found prioritising access to “out-of-hospital care”, will unlock value for patients and the health system more broadly, by offering the choice of flexible care for patients while also relieving system pressures.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David spoke with Hamish McDonald about medical device pricing](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-hamish-mcdonald-about-medical-device-pricing/) - The dominoes continue to fall for PWC as more details of its contracts with government and business come to light. Most recently, it's been found that PWC reviewed the Health Department's pricing of prosthetics. At the same time, it consulted the peak body for multinationals making those same prosthetics. The company has repeatedly said that it has processes in place to address any conflicts of interest.
- [Morrison Government’s inflationary medical device deal must be reviewed](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/morrison-governments-inflationary-medical-device-deal-must-be-reviewed/) - The Australian Government must urgently review medical device reform to reduce cost of living pressure and keep private health insurance affordable for 14.5 million Australians.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David spoke with the ABC’s David Bevan about the impact of medical device pricing on premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-the-abcs-david-bevan-about-the-impact-of-medical-device-pricing-on-premiums/) - Look, yes, it is, and it particularly affects private patients but it also has the effect of pushing up prices in public hospitals as well and the costs of the health system. So Australia is an outlier in terms of how much we pay for commonly used surgical supplies and medical implants like hip and knee replacements, pacemakers, cataracts, and so forth. This is down to some of the decisions that were made by the federal government back in around about 2006, which fixed the prices for all of these things at very high levels, and they never came down. So the prices didn't move in line with the market. And now we're in a situation where we can be paying up to five times as much for a commonly used item like a pacemaker in Australia as anywhere else in the world. And we've been campaigning on this for a long time. The Federal Government has made some concessions, but the pace of change has been incredibly slow.
- [Australians sign up to private health insurance in record numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-sign-up-to-private-health-insurance-in-record-numbers/) - Australians continue to sign up in record numbers to private health insurance. The latest APRA data shows that the private health insurance sector has seen 10 consecutive quarters of membership growth since June 2020, as Australian families realise the value of health insurance during the pandemic and its economic aftermath.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David spoke with ABC Tasmania about the increase in superannuation withdrawals to fund medical procedures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-abc-tasmania-about-the-increase-in-superannuation-withdrawals-to-fund-medical-procedures/) - Well, look, we've seen a very sharp rise in medical out-of-pocket costs for some services, which can be hard to access on low incomes like dental surgery and weight loss surgery, for example. And this has caused the normalisation of those out-of-pocket costs. And it's gone up really since it's become easy to access super for some of these treatments. We're really concerned about some of the charges that we're seeing in this market for- particularly for some dental services and some of the co-payments for surgery in some areas. And so we do think there's good evidence it's inflationary.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David discusses the importance of the Medicare Levy Surcharge on Radio 5AA](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-importance-of-the-medicare-levy-surcharge-on-radio-5aa/) - Well, look, I think the Medicare levy surcharge is designed to actually make the system more fair. And bear in mind, this is a fine or a penalty that's paid for higher income earners or people that are doing pretty well to ensure that they pay their fair share towards the costs of our health system, which is a great health system, but it is very costly - close to $200 billion per year are spent on health in Australia. And if you are doing well, the argument is that you should pay a little bit more either through your taxes or by taking out health insurance to ensure that we all have access to really high quality healthcare.
- [Dr Rachel David discussed growth in private health insurance membership in Queensland on ABC Breakfast](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discussed-growth-in-private-health-insurance-membership-in-queensland-on-abc-breakfast/) - Look, we have seen new memberships. We've seen about 160,000 people join a health fund in Queensland over the last eight quarters or two years. So membership is growing in Queensland and coming back and I think Minister D'Ath actually hit the nail on the head when she said that it was due to the decentralised nature of Queensland. It's a historical thing so that compared to other states, Queensland is much more spread out across a number of small towns than other states. And traditionally in those towns they haven't had private hospitals. Now, health funds- some health funds these days are able to offer to cover transport and accommodation for people living in rural areas so they can come and have their treatment in the city. And so for people in small towns, it is worth actually checking that out to see if that option is available.
- [No room for fraud or waste in Australia’s healthcare system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/no-room-for-fraud-or-waste-in-australias-healthcare-system/) - Australian health funds have welcomed the Albanese Government’s commitment to stamping out fraud and inappropriate billing in the health care system.
- [Health funds committed to easing cost of living pressure](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-committed-to-easing-cost-of-living-pressure/) - Australian health funds have delivered a premium increase well below inflation. However more needs to be done to maintain downward pressure on premiums as more people join health funds to access essential surgery and mental health treatment.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David talks to Radio 6PR about barriers preventing health funds paying for chronic disease management programs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-talks-to-radio-6pr-about-barriers-preventing-health-funds-paying-for-chronic-disease-management-programs/) - Well, look, traditionally, we've only been allowed in private health insurance, really, to cover for hospital care, dental, and some other allied health in the community. There's legislation that specifically prohibits us from funding GPs. But that was put in place years ago in 2007, and now we're in a situation where 750,000 people have joined a health fund in the last two and a half years because they're struggling to access health care in any respect, particularly in public hospitals. And we're seeing general practices all around the country struggle to attract doctors and to have enough resources to continue operating and seeing as many patients as they need.
- [Lower House Debate 7 February 2023](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/lower-house-debate-7-february-2023/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Lower-House-Debate-7-Feb-2023.pdf" title="Lower House Debate 7 Feb 2023"]
- [Changes to the Protheses List timeframes (2023/24)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/changes-to-the-protheses-list-timeframes-2023-24/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Changes-to-the-application-timeframes-PPT.pdf" title="Changes to the application timeframes PPT"]
- [2023 Premium Key Messages](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2023-premium-key-messages/) - 2023 Premium Key Messages
- [Health funds urge Government to protect the vulnerable and keep super safe](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-urge-government-to-protect-the-vulnerable-and-keep-super-safe/) - Australian health funds are backing the Albanese Government’s commitment to tighten the definition of superannuation, saying it will help to protect vulnerable Australians from being coerced by unscrupulous middlemen into accessing superannuation to fund medical procedures.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David discusses the value of private health insurance for regional and rural Australians on 2BS Bathurst radio](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-value-of-private-health-insurance-for-regional-and-rural-australians-on-2bs-bathurst-radio/) - Look, what we've seen, particularly over the last two and a half years since the pandemic, is actually a surge of people in regional areas joining a health fund. So on average- we've looked at all the regional electorates, and on average, over 2600 people per electorate have actually joined a health fund in a rural area. And the reason that they're doing that overwhelmingly is to have control over when they get admitted to hospital and where, in the event that something goes wrong. Public hospital waiting lists have blown out around the country.
- [Protheses List Reforms](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/protheses-list-reforms/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/PLR-presentation-key-stakeholder-meeting-December-2022.pdf" title="PLR – presentation key stakeholder meeting December 2022"]
- [HPP Prostheses List update](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/hpp-prostheses-list-update/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/HPP-transition-presentation-key-stakeholder-meeting-December-2022.pdf" title="HPP transition – presentation key stakeholder meeting December 2022"]
- [PHA Harris to ACCC](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-harris-to-accc/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/20221214-PHA-Harris-to-ACCC-ExtrasJar.pdf" title="20221214 PHA Harris to ACCC ExtrasJar"]
- [MSAC submission PHA](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/msac-submission-pha/) - 1724 MSAC submission PHA
- [Medical cost finder](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medical-cost-finder/) - Medical Costs Finder - draft content
- [Private health insurance ‘canary in the coalmine’ as Australia’s working population declines](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-canary-in-the-coalmine-as-australias-working-population-declines/) - Private Health Insurance is the canary in the coalmine for the impact of intergenerational imbalance in health. The Albanese Government’s Population Statement 2023 reveals Australia will face significant demographic challenges in the years ahead as the population continues to age and the proportion of working age people declines.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David speaks with ABC Radio Brisbane on healthcare data privacy](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-speaks-with-abc-radio-brisbane-on-healthcare-data-privacy/) - For health fund members or people that have used their health insurance, they're subject to the rules around medical negligence or some- or the rare situation in which something goes wrong and there's been some times a patient might need to sue a doctor or a hospital. And in that situation, that data needs to be kept to protect patients and to protect consumers for seven years for an adult and 25 years to a baby who's born.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David speaks with ABC Radio Darwin on preventative health programs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-speaks-with-abc-radio-darwin-on-preventative-health-programs/) - Well, look, traditionally, health funds have been very good at doing what they're regulated to do, which is to fund care in a hospital. Now, the system which bolts private health insurance into Medicare was put together about 40 years ago in an era where we didn't even have the same diseases that we have now. Nowadays, people suffer much more from chronic diseases which can be prevented, and the trouble is that private health funds are prevented by regulation for actually funding anything in primary care that would really help prevent disease.
- [PHA Legislation Brief - Protheses List Legislation 2023](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/protheseslistlegislation2023/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/PHA-Legislation-brief-prostheses-list-legislation-2023-Adelaide.pdf" title="PHA Legislation brief – prostheses list legislation 2023 Adelaide"]
- [Dr Rachel David discusses the value of private health insurance with 5aa’s Leon Byner](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-value-of-private-health-insurance-with-5aas-leon-byner/) - Look, and we really understand that. For many families that have private health insurance, it's the second biggest cost that that family has after their mortgage or rental. And so we are doing everything in our power to ensure that we keep a lid on inflation in our sector. Unfortunately, health costs do rise. That's due to- and premiums reflect the underlying health costs in the community, and that's to do with some long term factors like the ageing population, but more recently some of the issues that hospitals are facing as a result of the economy inflation- in the economy, like the cost of recruitment, the cost of power and the cost of food.
- [Nine quarters of membership growth confirms Australians value their private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/nine-quarters-of-membership-growth-confirms-australians-value-their-private-health-insurance/) - The private health insurance sector has experienced nine consecutive quarters of membership growth and a record 14.37 million Australians now have private health cover.
- [Health funds fulfil commitment to return COVID savings to members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-fulfil-commitment-to-return-covid-savings-to-members/) - Today’s ACCC report into the private health insurance industry confirms that health funds were true to their word and have handed back more than $2 billion to members as at 30 June 2022. Health funds are continuing to return savings to members.
- [Johnson & Johnson letter](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/20509-2/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/20221209-Letter-to-PHA-RE-Ex-gratia.pdf" title="20221209-Letter to PHA RE Ex-gratia"]
- [Medical device surcharge forcing up PHI premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medical-device-surcharge-forcing-up-phi-premiums/) - Australian health funds are calling on the Albanese Government to reverse a last minute pre-election deal done by the former Government on medical device pricing (prostheses) that locked in prices for medical devices in the private system 7-20 per cent higher than public prices.
- [Government approval of dodgy clinics as ‘hospitals’ is fuelling the cosmetic cowboy crisis and enabling Medicare and private health insurance fraud](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/government-approval-of-dodgy-clinics-as-hospitals-is-fuelling-the-cosmetic-cowboy-crisis/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) is calling for an urgent review of the process by which hospitals are accredited and declared eligible to receive health fund benefits in light of shocking revelations in the media about poor quality and safety in the cosmetic surgery sector.
- [Sponges, glues and staples will be funded but not at five times the market value](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sponges-glues-and-staples-will-be-funded-but-not-at-five-times-the-market-value/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David says the removal of 400 ‘general and miscellaneous’ items from the Prostheses List (PL) is long overdue and will not impact patient care.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses hospital default benefits and quality of care on ABC Radio](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-hospital-default-benefits-and-quality-of-care-on-abc-radio/) - Look, I'm absolutely appalled. The vast majority of private hospitals and private mental health facilities are out there trying to do the right thing in an environment where there is very, very high demand for services. And people living with mental health conditions are among the most vulnerable in our community. The majority of mental health services that are inpatient or provided in hospital are provided in the private sector. So we just have a collective responsibility to do a lot better.
- [Patients gouged on private pacemakers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/patients-gouged-on-private-pacemakers/) - New data prepared by the Independent Hospitals and Aged Care Pricing Authority (extracted from the Department of Health after a six-month delay) shows private patients will be paying $300 million more for cardiac pacemaker devices over the next four years than the cost of the same devices in the public system.
- [Dr Rachel David spoke with 5aa’s Leon Byner about out of pockets costs and increasing cost of living pressure on consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-spoke-with-5aas-leon-byner-about-out-of-pockets-costs-and-increasing-cost-of-living-pressure-on-consumers/) - But this really is a bit of a shock. It is an average. But we are seeing that some specialities like orthopaedics and some procedures like breast reconstruction after cancer and weight loss surgery have gone up sharply in relation to other things. So look, it is a concern because people out there are doing it tough. And surgeons are probably the highest income earners in the entire country, so I think there needs to be a bit of a recognition that something needs to give here.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David discusses the AMA proposal for additional PHI regulation with ABC’s David Bevan](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-discusses-the-ama-proposal-for-additional-phi-regulation-with-abcs-david-bevan/) - Well look, as a representative of Australian health funds, can I say: the last thing we need right now is another layer of bureaucracy to deal with. We are one of the most regulated sectors in the entire economy and, in fact, many reviews have said - including by the Productivity Commission and the Grattan Institute -that we are over regulated and this is already putting upward pressure on premiums. We've got some good regulators out there who can help us resolve some of these problems already. And Dr Khorshid is right, there is a need to continue to scrutinise and reform this sector. But we've got some pretty powerful regulators. We've got APRA, to make sure we have enough money to pay claims; we've got the ACCC, to make sure that we look after patients and consumers properly; and, we've got the Department of Health, who helps us with the private health side and Medicare. So, we really don't need another layer on top of that.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David discusses reforms to extend PHI coverage to dependents with disabilities on Radio 2GB](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-discusses-reforms-to-extend-phi-coverage-to-dependents-with-disabilities-on-radio-2gb/) - Well, the industry is already working on designing the products and introducing them, so I don't think that any further action by the federal government is really warranted at this stage. I think by the end of this year there should be a number of funds which have product in the market.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David discusses how to avoid unexpected gap payments on ABC Drive](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-discusses-how-to-avoid-unexpected-gap-payments-on-abc-drive/) - Well, look, it always pays to think hard about any healthcare that you might need. And one of the things that we urge consumers to do if they think they need treatment is, firstly, if they need treatment in hospital, is to check to make sure they have the right level of cover, which they can do by calling their health fund. And secondly, if they are referred to a specialist doctor, the most important thing is is they have a conversation with that doctor, whether it's over the phone or in person about what they're likely to charge.
- [PHA CEO Dr Rachel David talks to 5AA’s Leon Byner about health funds returning COVID savings to members via premium deferrals and cash backs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-ceo-dr-rachel-david-talks-to-5aas-leon-byner-about-health-funds-returning-covid-savings-to-members-via-premium-deferrals-and-cash-backs/) - But it comes down to a promise that health funds made to their members early in the pandemic, and that is that they would not accumulate any profits as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic and some of the lockdowns. So what occurred is during the last two and a half years, a lot of people have been unable to use their extras cover in particular, but also there's been delays in hospital admissions. So that's meant that some cash is accumulated in the health funds because they haven't been paying those claims. And so to make good on that promise, they've given it back to members in terms of either delaying planned premium increases or, in some cases, handing cash back to their members. So in all it's about $2 billion that's been paid back already.
- [High Claims confirm PHI value for Australians young and old](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-claims-confirm-phi-value-for-australians-young-and-old/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Annual High Claims Report confirms the value of private health insurance, with health funds paying out 382,400 hospital claims exceeding $10,000 in 2021.
- [Dr Rachel David told ABC radio health funds have an obligation to make sure members get the best care at the best price](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-told-abc-radio-health-funds-have-an-obligation-to-make-sure-members-get-the-best-care-at-the-best-price/) - What the health funds are trying to do is to ensure that they can work with hospitals to actively manage supply chains and inappropriate rises in costs. If I, for instance running my organisation, if a stationary provider puts up their costs or doubles their costs, I have to go out and manage the supply chain by finding other suppliers that will supply at lower costs - I don't just pass them on to my members. I think that active management of input costs is what Bupa is seeking.
- [Dr Rachel David discusses medical device pricing reform on radio 5aa](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-discusses-medical-device-pricing-reform-on-radio-5aa/) - Just by way of background for your listeners, the problem is that generic medical technologies like the plate screws, hip and knee replacements and the lenses that are used in surgery, like some of those implants, the Commonwealth Government has set- for many years has set the prices for these. And for many years those benefits were set way too high relative to global prices and the prices in the public sector, so that Australians were paying 30 to 100 per cent more than most other countries, and that was being reflected in their health fund premiums. As health costs go up, so do premiums.
- [Urgent health reform needed to reduce record public hospital waiting lists and cost of living pressure](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/urgent-health-reform-needed-to-reduce-record-public-hospital-waiting-lists-and-cost-of-living-pressure/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s 2022-23 Pre-Budget Submission identifies key policy reforms to improve affordability, access to private health insurance, and relieve pressure and demand on the public health sector at a time when it’s needed most.
- [Australians sign up to private health insurance in record numbers to avoid hospital waiting lists](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-sign-up-to-private-health-insurance-in-record-numbers-to-avoid-hospital-waiting-lists/) - Australians are taking out private health insurance in record numbers to avoid catastrophic delays in essential non-emergency surgery.
- [ABC Radio Sydney program interview with Dr Rachel David on Prostheses List reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-sydney-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-prostheses-list-reform/) - Health funds have been campaigning for years on this issue because we're super concerned about the cost of living and premium increases for our members. Now, this list applies to private patients. It's run and enforced by the Commonwealth Government and it contains commonly used medical implants.
- [TRIPLE M Coffs Coast program interview with Dr Rachel David on private health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/triple-m-coffs-coast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-health-insurance-premiums/) - Well, look, it- paradoxically, it's actually meant that people have been going into hospital for surgery less. So health funds over the short term have had more money, particularly from extras cover and for some of the slowdown in extras claims, and for some of the shorter procedures that people have put off. But they have mostly given that money back to customers now, and we're now starting to see elective surgery bounce back and with some catch up in there, like at higher rates than previously, and people starting to catch up on their appointments. And many of those people are actually presenting to doctors and hospitals in pretty rough shape because they haven't had all of the tests and check-ups that they otherwise would’ve had during the pandemic. And we're also picking up on some issues around mental health in particular that have worsened considerably during the pandemic period.
- [New Minister to face double digit premium increases if Ramsay/KKR demands met](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/new-minister-to-face-double-digit-premium-increases-if-ramsay-kkr-demands-met/) - Private Healthcare Australia has warned of double-digit premium increases in the wake of Ramsay Health Care’s threat to terminate its private hospital agreement with Bupa.
- [Radio 6PR's Gareth Parker interviews Dr Rachel David on GP funding](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-6prs-gareth-parker-interviews-dr-rachel-david-on-gp-funding/) - Well, look, I think what we need is a review of the Medicare system that has served us really well and is an essential part of Australia's health system. It's served us well for many years, but now, when it comes to out-of-pocket costs, which people are incurring out of hospital, particularly when they try and visit a GP, it's actually preventing them from accessing the doctor and getting some of the care they need. The private health funds are an extra source of money for GP's, potentially. And GPs should be the most important people in our health system - they're the gateway to the health system, and they can potentially engage in a lot more work than they currently do, but they've been hopelessly underfunded.
- [Healthcare reform – it’s time](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/healthcare-reform-its-time/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA), the peak body representing Australian health funds, congratulates the Albanese Government on its election and looks forward to working collaboratively to improve affordability and access to quality health care for all Australians.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on treatments in hospitals and coverage for the unvaccinated](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-treatments-in-hospitals-and-coverage-for-the-unvaccinated/) - Private health insurance is regulated quite differently than other forms of insurance. So basically, your premiums don't change according to your disease risk in private health insurance. So even if you're not vaccinated, that will make no difference to your premium. However, all of our health funds are strongly encouraging people, through- in various ways, to be fully vaccinated, including offering them incentives and so forth. So we are doing our best, but there's no- private health insurance is not a mechanism to force or compel people to get vaccinated.
- [Morrison Government must act now to stop ‘Australia Tax’ on common medical devices driving up health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/morrison-government-must-act-now-to-stop-australia-tax-on-common-medical-devices-driving-up-health-insurance-premiums/) - The inflated price of medical devices continues to be the largest factor increasing premiums for Australian families with private health insurance.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide program interview with Dr Rachel David on the importance of vaccination to prevent COVID outbreaks in the hospital environment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-importance-of-vaccination-to-prevent-covid-outbreaks-in-the-hospital-environment/) - Look, the first thing to be clear about is that if you have private health cover, you're a Health Fund member, you will still be covered whether you're vaccinated or not. It does not alter your level of cover in any way. And if you need medical treatment, then Health Fund will fully support you in, in getting access to medical treatment.
- [High cost of medical devices pushes up insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-cost-of-medical-devices-pushes-up-insurance/) - As Australia learns to live with Covid-19 and our health system manages a growing and ageing population, it is critical the federal government does all it can to keep private healthcare affordable for families.
- [Steve Price, Triple M Interview with Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, about Private Insurers.](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/steve-price-triple-m-interview-with-rachel-david-ceo-of-private-healthcare-australia-about-private-insurers/) - LISTEN TO THE AUDIO CLIP STEVE PRICE: If you are considering a holiday in Queensland over the Christmas-New Year period, you can probably go there with some relaxation. However, the Queensland Premier who we'll hear from shortly, Annastacia Palaszczuk, she said that she's going to put masks back on. Masks will be mandatory in all
- [Health Funds are committed to easing cost of living pressures on Australian families](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-are-committed-to-easing-cost-of-living-pressures-on-australian-families/) - Australian health funds are committed to easing cost of living pressures on families and have delivered the lowest increase in 21 years. The average premium increase of 2.7% will officially come into effect on 1 April 2022, although some funds have frozen premiums for a further period due to the impacts of COVID-19. Private Healthcare
- [5AA program interview with Dr Rachel David on "More Affordable Health" campaign](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-more-affordable-health-campaign/) - Well look, we've had a flawed system in place for a number of years, and the Government in the last budget, the last federal budget, has agreed to change it and take some very important measures to put downward pressure on these prices, which, as you've said, Australia is paying 30 to 50 per cent more for commonly used medical devices than most other countries around the world.
- [Australia’s health system must urgently adapt to the increasing needs of an ageing population](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australias-health-system-must-urgently-adapt-to-the-increasing-needs-of-an-ageing-population/) - “Today’s Intergenerational Report (IGR) again shows that business as usual in health won’t be sustainable into the future,” said Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide program interview with Dr Rachel David rebutting claims by CHOICE about the value of PHI to younger Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-rebutting-claims-by-choice-about-the-value-of-phi-to-younger-australians/) - Well look, I've listened to what Choice has had to say and read their communications in the media about this, and I have to say, I'm a little bit worried about it. I'm worried about the nature of their communication, and because it really misses the point, and it was the point that you made about what insurance actually is.
- [Federal government reform of medical device pricing to give headroom to fund the latest technologies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/federal-government-reform-of-medical-device-pricing-to-give-headroom-to-fund-the-latest-technologies/) - Privately insured Australians with serious heart conditions now have a new, less invasive treatment option available, with MitraClip now funded through private health insurance.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide program interview with Ben Harris on surprise billing undermining the value in health insurance for consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-surprise-billing-undermining-the-value-in-health-insurance-for-consumers/) - Well, about 10 or 15 years ago, surprise billing was the norm. You'd come in and you wouldn't quite know what sort of bills you are going to get and how big the gap was going to be. Over the last decade or so, the Australian Medical Association and the health profession generally have done an outstanding job to drive down surprise billing. So, we are now at the stage where less than two per cent of bills have a no- sorry, less than two per cent of bills have an out-of-pocket cost that is not known to the patient beforehand. Now, that's been a great effort, but there's still some bill- some doctors out there who are splitting bills or giving people bills they are just not expecting.
- [High Claims for mental health treatment peak during COVID pandemic](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-claims-for-mental-health-treatment-peak-during-covid-pandemic/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s 2021 High Claims Report highlights the value of private health insurance in the current pandemic environment, particularly as claims for mental health treatment continue to increase.
- [Stop the waste: medical device claims increase out of proportion to all other health services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/stop-the-waste-medical-device-claims-increase-out-of-proportion-to-all-other-health-services/) - Australian health funds are calling on the Federal Government to fast-track reforms to take pressure off premiums, as more Australians recognise the value of private health insurance in the current pandemic environment.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on COVID, health fund customer support and premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-covid-health-fund-customer-support-and-premiums/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 20/10/2021 Time: 10:08 AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: Now, COVID-19 does not mean the treatment of other illnesses stops. And sometimes it gets so much profile that we forget about so many other things for which people have got
- [Factsheet: Mental Health Care from a Private Health Insurance Perspective](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/factsheet-mental-health-care-from-a-private-health-insurance-perspective/) - In 2019-20, private health insurance paid for 53% of all mental health care separations in Australian hospitals (with the private hospitals sector handling 60% of cases).
- [Private Healthcare Australia Launches Campaign to Reform Medical Device Pricing to Keep Health Insurance More Affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-australia-launches-campaign-to-reform-medical-device-pricing-to-keep-health-insurance-more-affordable/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David, today announced a new campaign, ‘More Affordable Health’ at the Health Insurance Summit in Sydney, calling for urgent changes to the way medical devices used in surgeries are priced in Australia to keep health insurance more affordable.
- [PHI Code of Conduct: Committed to Informing Australian Consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-code-of-conduct-committed-to-informing-australian-consumers/) - Private health insurance funds are committed to providing consumers with clear, easy to understand and accessible information about their health fund and the valuable role of private health insurance in the Australian health system.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide program interview with Dr Rachel David on Medicare reclassification of surgeries](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-medicare-reclassification-of-surgeries/) - I think the first thing I should say is some of the stories that have appeared in the press over the weekend, which talk about massive, thousands of dollars of co-payments to patients resulting from the changes are a massive beat up.
- [Sky News Live program interview with Dr Rachel David on Medicare rebate changes for some private surgery procedures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-medicare-rebate-changes-for-some-private-surgery-procedures/) - We've known this has been coming for some time, and both the medical specialists and the health funds have been aware of these changes. But the suggestion that was made in the weekend press that certain surgeries that were routinely and commonly performed would now be defunded so that patients would pay thousands of out-of-pocket costs is completely wrong, and we need to be clear that what has happened is that the MBS, or the schedule of fees for which doctors and their patients receive benefits is being updated. And if certain things have been taken off, it's either because they were obsolete and no longer used or because they've been replaced with something else.
- [5CS program interview with Ben Harris on changes to the Medicare rebate scheme](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5cs-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-changes-to-the-medicare-rebate-scheme/) - Look, these are good changes. Medicare is more than 30 years old now, and we've had hundreds of doctors over the last six years pore over it to see whether the schedule needs to be changed. This time around, we're getting 900 changes. Most of them are really minor. And the other good thing is more money will be put into Medicare as a result of these changes.
- [5AA program interview with Dr Rachel David on returns to PHI members from COVID-19 surgery bans in 2020](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-returns-to-phi-members-from-covid-19-surgery-bans-in-2020/) - Look, there's been a couple of funds that have announced they're going to go down the same path. But to give a bit of background, what happened last year is APRA, or the regulator of the health funds, asked the funds to put aside a certain amount of money to pay for claims for surgery that had been postponed but not cancelled as a result of the lockdown.
- [Australians pay world-highest prices for medical devices](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-pay-world-highest-prices-for-medical-devices/) - A new report confirms that common medical devices in Australia are much more expensive than in other countries – costing Australian consumers hundreds of millions of dollars every year.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on cost shifting in South Australia’s public system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-cost-shifting-in-south-australias-public-system/) - And my concern is, look, if people with private health insurance are making an active choice, that they want their own doctor throughout their stay in a public hospital, and that's what they get - well, that's fine. But what we're seeing is actually a lot of people who feel that they've been bullied and harassed into making this decision, not by doctors, but by bureaucrats and finance people. So, I think overall, people need to understand their rights and that if you’re an Australian citizen, you are covered by Medicare. So, if you do need to go into a public hospital because you’ve got something serious or that’s where your doctor works, you actually are entitled to be treated as a public patient and you’re entitled to insist on those rights.
- [Atlas to improve Australian healthcare delivery](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/atlas-to-improve-australian-healthcare-delivery/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said the Fourth Australian Atlas of Healthcare Variation would make a significant contribution to improving healthcare delivery in Australia.
- [Morrison Government reform will lead to lower PHI premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/morrison-government-reform-will-lead-to-lower-phi-premiums/) - The Morrison Government’s commitment to fast-track change to the current medical device pricing regime in Australia will reduce premiums for consumers and keep our world class health system sustainable, while ensuring doctors are able to use the best devices for their patients with no out of pocket costs.
- [Government efforts to keep premiums affordable give PHI membership a boost](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/government-efforts-to-keep-premiums-affordable-give-phi-membership-a-boost/) - Stabilising membership and coverage levels in both Hospital cover and Extras policies demonstrate consumers recognise the value of private health as Australia tackles the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [6PR program interview with Dr Rachel David on more people joining private health cover in December 2020 quarter](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-more-people-joining-private-health-cover-in-december-2020-quarter/) - We saw in the December quarter last year that there's been quite a jump in people who've both hung on to their health insurance and people that are taking it out. For hospital cover, close to 40,000 people extra and also over 50,000 for excess cover. And look, what this indicates is that the pandemic has got a lot of families and people sitting around the dinner table to really consider their health care and make it a priority.
- [Big MedTech ships supernormal profits offshore at expense of Australian consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/big-medtech-ships-supernormal-profits-offshore-at-expense-of-australian-consumers/) - Australian health funds will be forced to pay more than $10 billion for medical devices over the next five years under the current unfair and outdated regulatory regime, the Prostheses List.
- [5AA program interview with Dr Rachel David on the value of PHI and membership increasing as a result of COVID-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-value-of-phi-and-membership-increasing-as-a-result-of-covid-19/) - Well, look, we are seeing an increase in almost all age cohorts of people either keeping their health insurance or are taking it out. But it is still very much the older cohort and over 65s that are joining or hanging onto their insurance, even if it means they have to pay a bit more because they've waited to sign up. And the reason for that is lack of access to treatment and cost of treatment that they're seeking in the public system.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide program interview with Dr Rachel David on deferred claims liability and premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-deferred-claims-liability-and-premium-increases/) - Well look, the money has been put aside as a regulatory requirement by our prudential regulator because of how unstable claims have been as a result of the pandemic. So the funds were required to put aside a certain amount of money in case surgeries that had not been cancelled but put off, the claims had bounced back higher than were expected. Now, we have seen that happen in some states, particularly where the lockdown periods were extended, like Victoria. In other states like Western Australia, claims have been more stable. So it does differ markedly between capital cities.
- [Why is your health insurance premium going up this year?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/why-is-your-health-insurance-premium-going-up-this-year/) - The Federal Budget is an opportunity to redistribute Big MedTech’s supernormal profits to Australian hospitals, doctors, and importantly consumers through lower health insurance premiums.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on the impact of the Prostheses List on premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-impact-of-the-prostheses-list-on-premium-increases/) - Yes. Well, look, it's the lowest premium increase that we've seen in many years but it's really disappointing that premiums had to go up by that much at all in a year where so many Australians have had real problems as a result of this pandemic and are doing it tough. And one of the only things that, in fact, the only cost that grew for health funds during that time was the cost of these commonly used medical devices, and it just wouldn't be happening. The Federal Government regulates the price, but that price is 30 to 50 per cent higher than in comparable countries around the world.
- [6PR program interview with Ben Harris on the extension of family health cover to children until age 31](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-the-extension-of-family-health-cover-to-children-until-age-31/) - It’ll save young people money, but more importantly it’ll make sure they’re covered for health care. Younger people often can’t see the value in private health insurance because of the cost. If they’re under their parent’s policy, then they will be covered. And we’re seeing young people claiming more and more, particularly for mental health care. Public mental health care is pretty ordinary across Australia, and more than half of the hospitalisations for mental health care are covered by the private sector. So for young people, care is really important.
- [3AW Drive program interview with Ben Harris on health insurers adding value to attract young members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-drive-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-health-insurers-adding-value-to-attract-young-members/) - Look, a lot of health funds will offer all sorts of things to start the conversation, to get people thinking about private health insurance. And if Uber Eats or a gym membership, or something gets you over the line, then that's great. But what we need is people thinking about their health and what they can do to improve their health, but also what they can do to make sure that if something goes wrong, then they get- they are insured.
- [ABC Radio Hobart program interview with Dr Rachel David on the subject of public hospital waiting lists, PHI value and membership](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-hobart-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-subject-of-public-hospital-waiting-lists-phi-value-and-membership/) - Look, I think we're seeing this is an issue Australia-wide as well as in Tasmania, and the root causes are three. Number one is that we're trying to fit a large baby boomer population to a hospital system that was designed many years ago.
- [PHA’s proposal delivers a fairer, more affordable system for Australian families](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phas-proposal-delivers-a-fairer-more-affordable-system-for-australian-families/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said a scare campaign by big MedTech is designed to protect supernormal profits at the expense of Australian health fund members.
- [Urgent reforms needed to protect Australia’s health system in COVID-19 world](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/urgent-reforms-needed-to-protect-australias-health-system-in-covid-19-world/) - Private Healthcare Australia is calling for urgent reforms to protect timely access to healthcare and the well-being of Australia’s population.
- [2SM Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on the Federal Government reviewing reforms for health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2sm-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-federal-government-reviewing-reforms-for-health-funds/) - The system we've got in Australia is completely inappropriate. People are paying through their health fund premiums, two to five times too much for the medical device component of their care. The system we propose comprehensively rules out the ability for extra co-payments to be charged.
- [Australian consumers back private health during COVID-19, as public hospital waiting times soar](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-consumers-back-private-health-during-covid-19-as-public-hospital-waiting-times-soar/) - CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David, said the increase in private health fund membership in the December quarter has demonstrated consumers have positively assessed the value of private health in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Surge in demand for dental and allied health as COVID-19 restrictions ease](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/surge-in-demand-for-dental-and-allied-health-as-covid-19-restrictions-ease/) - The latest data from Private Healthcare Australia confirms Australians are using their private health insurance for general treatment/ancillary health services at pre COVID-19 levels.
- [Health funds increase claims paid to members, despite the financial impact of COVID-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-increase-claims-paid-to-members-despite-the-financial-impact-of-covid-19/) - Australian health funds’ average claims ratio (the benefits paid on behalf of members) increased to 88% in the year to June 2020 from 86% in FY 2019.
- [Restoring the means-tested PHI rebate to 30% will ensure the sustainability of Australia’s mixed healthcare system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/restoring-the-means-tested-phi-rebate-to-30-will-ensure-the-sustainability-of-australias-mixed-healthcare-system/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s CEO, Dr Rachel David, said APRA’s September quarter data confirmed that the restoration of the private health insurance (PHI) rebate to 30% is necessary to protect the future of Australia’s world class health system.
- [Lowest average PHI premium increase in two decades](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/lowest-average-phi-premium-increase-in-two-decades/) - Australian health funds have delivered the lowest premium increase in two decades, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to members during what has been a challenging year for consumers, industry and government. The average premium increase of 2.74% will come into effect on 1 April 2021.
- [4BC Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on private health insurance premium increases in 2021](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/4bc-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-health-insurance-premium-increases-in-2021/) - Well, look, the only reason that premiums go up at all is because health funds are paying for more health care. We've seen an explosion in the need for surgery for- particularly for people aged 65 and over, and also for the need for inpatient or in hospital mental health care around Australia, which is why, unfortunately, premiums are going up.
- [3AW Mornings program interview with Ben Harris on the extension of family health cover to children until age 31](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-mornings-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-the-extension-of-family-health-cover-to-children-until-age-31/) - Private health funds recognise that an increasing number of young people depend on their parents through their 20's. We've got more people living at home, more people studying and at the moment we've got many, many more young people out of work. So an arbitrary age cut-off at 24, 25 is leaving young people without the private health options, so we think it is important to offer private health insurance policies that allow dependents to stay on their parents' private health insurance longer, if need, so they can access timely and quality health care.
- [ABC Ballarat Breakfast program interview with Ben Harris on the extension of family health cover to children until age 31](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-ballarat-breakfast-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-the-extension-of-family-health-cover-to-children-until-age-31/) - It doesn't have to be just people studying. If you are dependent on your parents, then your- most funds will be providing services- providing policies where you can stay on your parents' policy. More and more young Australians are out of work at the moment; more and more studying longer; and of course, the housing market is very, very tough for a lot of people to break into. We don't want people dropping off private health insurance between the ages of 25 and 30, and we have seen a significant drop off over the last few years. So we need to make sure that those young people can stay covered, particularly for things like mental health care.
- [ABC Radio Brisbane Breakfast program interview with Ben Harris on the extension of family health cover to children until age 31](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-brisbane-breakfast-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-the-extension-of-family-health-cover-to-children-until-age-31/) - Changes come into effect this year which mean that people can stay under their parent's health insurance until the age - well, it has been 25, it's now going to increase to 31. The reason? Well, in part it's because kids are staying in education and living at home longer.
- [Private health insurers pay out record number of high claims](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurers-pay-out-record-number-of-high-claims/) - Private Healthcare Australia has released its high claims data report for 2019, showing health funds paid 367,979 hospital claims where the benefit payment for the episode of care exceeded $10,000. This is an increase of 16,700 (4.8%) high claims on the previous year.
- [5AA Interview with Rachel David](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-interview-with-rachel-david/) - Rachel David interview with Leon Byner on 5AA Mornings.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide Interview with Rachel David on 1 October premium increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-interview-with-rachel-david-on-1-october-premium-increase/) - Yes. So, for many funds for most people, we’ll put premiums up by a small amount from 1 October. It will be the lowest increase in close to two decades. But because elective surgery has come back in every state outside Victoria and is running at higher rates than normal, it means that that small increase is necessary so that health funds can maintain some revenue to keep up with health inflation and claims.
- [ABC Radio Melbourne Interview with Rachel David on 1 October premium increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-interview-with-rachel-david-on-1-october-premium-increase/) - Well what we've had to do is to put some money aside for cases that were postponed; so for surgeries that were planned but were postponed, and that's a regulatory requirement - so that's been about just over $1 billion over the whole time. And in addition health funds have paid back half a billion dollars to their members already, particularly for those in financial distress and who are on JobKeeper and JobSeeker.
- [3AW Interview with Rachel David on 1 October premium increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-interview-with-rachel-david-on-1-october-premium-increase/) - Look, it will go up by an average of 2.9 per cent overall, that's the industry net average, which is actually under the inflation in health cost, but we've worked very hard with the Federal Government that controls our claims expenditure to be able to bring those costs down.
- [3AW Drive Interview with Rachel David on 1 October premium increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-drive-interview-with-rachel-david-on-1-october-premium-increase/) - Yeah. It is an average. So, there are some funds that won't be putting their premiums up at all tomorrow, and for some people it will go up by a bit more. But overall, that is the lowest premium increase that we've had in 19 years. Pretty much because it's the work that we've done with the Federal Government to help reduce the cost of claims, because premiums really only go up because the number of claims have increased.
- [Remove wasteful costs and cut red tape to reduce premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/remove-wasteful-costs-and-cut-red-tape-to-reduce-premiums/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s CEO Dr Rachel David says prompt government action to reign in escalating medical device industry costs could reduce premiums for 13.6 million Australian with private health insurance. Despite the COVID-19 lockdown, the volume and cost of medical devices continued to grow in 2019-20.
- [Maintaining balance in Australia’s world class mixed private/ public health system is critical for a successful response to COVID-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/maintaining-balance-in-australias-world-class-mixed-private-public-health-system-is-critical-for-a-successful-response-to-covid-19/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David said the need to maintain the balance of our private/public health system has never been more important as pressure mounts on our public hospital system as a result of COVID-19.
- [Health funds among the first to act to assist their members in the pandemic, and are not hiding a pot of gold](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-among-the-first-to-act-to-assist-their-members-in-the-pandemic-and-are-not-hiding-a-pot-of-gold/) - Health funds have repeatedly and publicly said they will not profit from the COVID-19 restrictions, and are not hiding a pot of gold.
- [CHOICE doesn’t understand how our healthcare system works](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/choice-doesnt-understand-how-our-healthcare-system-works/) - Once again CHOICE has sought to undermine the importance of Australia’s private health system. CHOICE has become nothing more than an activist organisation promoting its own niche ideologies instead of communicating the facts to consumers.
- [6PR Interview with Rachel David on the Choice Research](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-interview-with-rachel-david-on-the-choice-reponse/) - No one is making any additional money out of the coronavirus. And so the second point that I'd make in relation to this is that at no point during this crisis was all elective surgery and all allied health was cancelled.
- [Australian Health Funds pay more than $21b in benefits despite significant COVID-19 headwinds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-health-funds-pay-more-than-21b-in-benefits-despite-significant-covid-19-headwinds/) - Health funds paid $21.7 billion* in benefits to members for the year ending June 2020 while weathering the significant market impact of COVID-19 head winds.
- [APRA report shows health funds paid a record $21.7 billion in benefits in the year to March 2020](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/apra-report-shows-health-funds-paid-a-record-21-7-billion-in-benefits-in-the-year-to-march-2020/) - Australians have continued to use their private health insurance, including during COVID-19, to access vital health services and treatments. Health funds paid $21.75 billion in benefits in the 12 months to 31 March 2020, an increase of 3.7% on the previous year, according to APRA’s March quarterly report released today.
- [Sky News Interview with Dr Rachel David on APRA's March 2020 quarter PHI stats](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-newsday-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-on-apras-phi-march-2020-quarter-data/) - Well, at this point, we need to remember that the data's only for the first quarter of this year, so it's still showing health funds paying out more benefits for things like elective surgery and allied health than before. And we're just starting to see at the end of that period a fall-off in claims for services like dental, physio and optical, which we expect will continue throughout April and May, and then start to come back.
- [Radio National PM program interview with Dr Rachel David on APRA stats on private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-pm-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-apra-stats-on-private-health-insurance/) - If we didn't have that capacity and have the capacity to be flexible, to provide extra elective surgery and to provide extra capacity for intensive care and ventilators and to have extra doctors and nurses available, we could potentially have been under a lot of trouble had the pandemic taken hold. And I think the reason the community has so much confidence in our healthcare system is because it's a mixed public and private system.
- [3AW Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on private health plans to cover kids up to age 30](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-health-plans-to-cover-kids-up-to-age-30/) - The Government's considering a proposal to allow young Australians to stay on their parents' private health insurance plans until the age of 30, backed by health funds desperate to slow a fall in membership due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [6PR Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on private health plans to cover kids up to age 30](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-health-plans-to-cover-kids-up-to-age-30/) - The Government is considering a proposal to allow youngest Aussies to stay on their private health cover of their families until their age to 30. Now at the moment, they can stay on there until they're 25, providing they're not working full time and earning over an X number of dollars.
- [Health funds keep their promise to members impacted by COVID-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-keep-their-promise-to-members-impacted-by-covid-19/) - The commitment made by Australian health funds not to profit from the COVID-19 restriction remains. There has been no change.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide Afternoons program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding commitment made by Australian health funds not to profit from the COVID-19 restriction](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-afternoons-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-commitment-made-by-australian-health-funds-not-to-profit-from-the-covid-19-restriction/) - Well, no it hasn't changed. What's happened is that at the beginning of the crisis, if people can think back to the first few days of the pandemic there was speculation that some of the hold on some of the less urgent elective surgery and community services like dental might go on for six months or more. In fact, the restrictions on elective surgery were removed about five weeks into the crisis.
- [CHOICE stunt poorly researched and ignores the facts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/choice-stunt-poorly-researched-and-ignores-the-facts/) - CHOICE has once again demonstrated it has become nothing more than an activist organisation promoting its own ideologies instead of communicating the facts to consumers.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on the issue of health care and the Royal Adelaide Hospital](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-issue-of-health-care-and-the-royal-adelaide-hospital/) - Yeah. And look, we're still trying to get to the bottom of what's actually happening here. It does sound like some pretty superficial revenue raising. But just to be clear, for people with private health insurance, normally we advise as much as possible, they should try and seek care in a private hospital. That's both to take pressure off the public hospital system but also because often, a lot of these things are completely taken care of in a private hospital.
- [3AW Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on premium reductions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-premium-reductions/) - So we've done a few things already. We've put off a planned price rise on the first of April, pending a reviews later in the year. And we've also set up hardship funds in every fund so that people in financial distress can suspend their premium. However, if it looks like health funds are accumulating abnormal profits, as a result of the crisis, we will look at ways of ensuring that members get that money back.
- [ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on premium reductions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-premium-reductions/) - Look, we are monitoring the situation very carefully because health funds do not want to make extraordinary profits out of the COVID-19 crisis. So, elective surgery will drop off by about half, we're still going to be funding emergency procedures or procedures that need to take place within a four-week period - things like cancer and heart disease - and we'll still be funding emergency dental and some Telehealth and mental health. But there's no doubt that we are going to be seeing a drop off in claims as a result of COVID, and so if we see abnormal profits accumulating we will rapidly work out a way to pay that back to members - whether that's by a rebate or a premium reduction.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on health funds returning additional savings to members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-health-funds-returning-additional-savings-to-members/) - Well, that's exactly right. And what we've always been clear about is health funds will not profiteer out of this crisis. So if it looks like we are accumulating unexpected profits as a result of a slowdown in elective surgery, we're going to have a look at that and work out a way to pay that back to our members.
- [Good news for patients as elective surgery to resume](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/good-news-for-patients-as-elective-surgery-to-resume/) - Private Healthcare Australia says the decision by the National Cabinet to resume elective (essential non-emergency) surgery is good news for Australians who are living in pain and discomfort.
- [Patients will be treated according to clinical urgency](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/patients-will-be-treated-according-to-clinical-urgency/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the Australian Government’s announcement on the staged return of elective (essential non-emergency) surgery made it clear that patients would be prioritised on the basis of clinical need.
- [3AW Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding elective surgery](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-elective-surgery/) - What will be happening is that people will be, as it should happen, be prioritised based on clinical need. So those more urgent cases- people that are in distress from pain and can't be managed at home or who are at risk of losing a critical bodily function, that's possibly permanent like mobility or vision will be prioritised. And at least in the first few weeks, that is how that will be assessed. So it's the patient treating doctor that will be making the decision about who receives the surgery first.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide Afternoons program interview with Dr Rachel David discussing telehealth and financial support measures implemented by health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-afternoons-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-discussing-telehealth-and-financial-support-measures-implemented-by-health-funds/) - We're still waiting for the data to come in over the last six weeks about what has happened particularly with extra cover and allied health. It's a bit more complex for in-hospital treatment because there's a lot of pent up demand for elective or essential non-emergency surgery and we're expecting we need a provision for that demand to come back, which is a requirement- not only is it something that we know is going to happen. It's a regulatory requirement for the funds as well.
- [Australians urged to access telehealth services for mental health treatment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-urged-to-access-telehealth-services-for-mental-health-treatment/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David has urged Australians suffering from mental health issues to seek assistance through the safe and widely available telehealth options that are now in place.
- [ABC News Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on premiums and PHI measures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-premiums-and-phi-measures/) - Well as the Federal Government pledges billions of dollars to try to cushion the country from the impact of coronavirus; people are looking at ways to cut costs to ride out the pandemic. And the private health insurance industry is taking steps to try to ensure that people continue their fund membership through the crisis by delaying premium increases and introducing other measures.
- [Health funds welcome Government’s private hospital guarantee](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-welcome-governments-private-hospital-guarantee/) - The Australian Government’s decision to guarantee the viability and capacity of the private hospital sector will ensure the capability of Australia’s world class health system during the COVID-19 pandemic and into the future.
- [COVID-19 crisis: no place for misinformation and irresponsible political games](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/covid-19-crisis-no-place-for-misinformation-and-irresponsible-political-games/) - The Australian Greens have acted irresponsibly by spreading misinformation, creating confusion and anxiety about access to healthcare during the COVID-19 crisis.
- [Health funds Postpone 1 April Premium Increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-postpone-1-april-premium-increase/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief executive Dr Rachel David announced that member health funds will postpone the 1 April premium increase for at least six months. The announcement is part of a large package of support measures to relieve pressure on consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [3AW Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on the six month premium freeze and private hospital capacity](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-six-month-premium-freeze-and-private-hospital-capacity/) - Well that's right, for at least six months, what we're going to do is review in six months whether the normal claims pattern has recommenced and then we will have a discussion about it then. But at the moment, people are obviously incredibly anxious and the other thing that funds have done at this time is for anyone who's lost their job or has reduced hours and is in financial distress, we’ve said, you know, don't drop your cover, talk to us first and we'll work something out until you're back on your feet.
- [Health funds committed to providing financial relief for members impacted by COVID 19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-committed-to-providing-financial-relief-for-members-impacted-by-covid-19/) - Australia’s health funds are doing everything possible to ease financial pressure on their members and continue to provide essential health services including critical dental care, during the COVID 19 pandemic.
- [Health funds back private hospital capacity guarantee](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-back-private-hospital-capacity-guarantee/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) has backed calls by a coalition of private hospital operators for a national approach to guaranteeing private hospital capacity to keep critical staff employed.
- [2CC Summer Drive program interview with Dr Rachel David on a range of private health insurance issues](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2cc-summer-drive-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-a-range-of-private-health-insurance-issues/) - Yeah well that's right. But this has been a problem for Medicare and the private health side in that because the older- that baby boom generation where the average age is now 70 is pretty large and the expectations that they'll keep on working and participating in society are rightfully high. It's actually meant that the cross subsidy that younger people are paying is roughly $900 and it's getting greater because those- the generations that follow are actually smaller. So we do need to do a little bit more to help those people get a foothold in the system but we can't do it by taking things away from older people who might have paid into their health fund all their lives.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Ben Harris on PHA's 2020 budget submission to Treasury](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-ben-harris-on-pha-2020-budget-submission-to-treasury/) - Well we had the lowest increase in premiums in almost 20 years this year, which is great news. But we need to make sure the premiums stay down, we need to keep an eye on costs and importantly, as you say, if we can increase the rebates then it means that people don't feel as much of a sting in the back pocket.
- [Whole Healthcare Sector Needs to Heed APRA's Wake-Up Call](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/whole-healthcare-sector-needs-to-heed-apras-wake-up-call/) - APRA’s analysis of the private health insurance industry highlights many of the issues the Government and industry is already working to address. Private Health Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said comments by APRA’s Geoff Summerhayes were timely and should provide a wake- up call to all stakeholders in the health sector.
- [6PR Perth Live program interview with Dr Rachel David discussing APRA's comments regarding private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-perth-live-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-discussing-apras-comments-regarding-private-health-insurance/) - I think the difficulty with the health funds doing more than they're doing is a staggering amount of government regulation that compels health funds to pay claims in situations where other types of insurance wouldn't need to pay claims at all. So we need, we're paying top dollar for medical devices compared to the rest of the world and a whole range of medical equipment we wouldn't otherwise pay for, if we only paid for the best available.
- [Latest private health data shows record benefits paid as out of control medical device costs continue to cannibalise benefits and value](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/latest-private-health-data-shows-record-benefits-paid-as-out-of-control-medical-device-costs-continue-to-cannabilise-benefits-and-value/) - APRA data released today shows prostheses benefits have risen 6.6% in just three months and up 5.1% in the year to December 2019, wildly out of proportion to the number of surgical procedures performed. Hospital treatment episodes only grew by 0.1% over the year to December 2019. The Quarterly Statistics Report highlights costs are rising at an unsustainable level in the healthcare system.
- [ABC Illawarra Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on APRA PHI statistics](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-illawarra-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-apra-phi-statistics/) - Well look, I think rumours of the decline and death of private health insurance have been greatly exaggerated. It's still the main way that essential non-emergency surgery gets paid for in Australia. It's the main way that dental services get subsidised and it's the main way that in-patient mental health care gets subsidised.
- [2GB Afternoons program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding PHI numbers and APRA PHI statistics](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-afternoons-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-phi-numbers-and-apra-phi-statistics/) - We're doing a lot already. And one of those things is that we have cut management expenses and consolidated behind the scenes to deliver the lowest premium increase in 19 years to 2.92 per cent. But there is more that needs to be done, and there is strong awareness, both within the funds and in the sector and with the federal government, that the main concern that consumers have is premium affordability and rising health costs.
- [Australian Health Funds – Premium Relief and Teleconsultation Measures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-health-funds-premium-relief-and-teleconsultation-measures/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said health fund members experiencing financial distress as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic should contact their health fund to discuss their options.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David discussing premium relief and teleconsultation measures by health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-discussing-premium-relief-and-teleconsultation-measures-by-health-funds/) - Well look, people who are facing financial hardship as a result of the current crisis we are very keen to ensure that their first reaction is not to drop their health cover. The first thing they should do is ring their health funds, because we've been given authorisation to provide relief to people in that situation – either because they've lost their job or because their hours have been dramatically reduced.
- [Australian Health Funds Announce Tele-Physiotherapy Consultations](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-health-funds-announce-tele-physiotherapy-consultations/) - Private health funds are fast tracking access for members to tele-physiotherapy consultations while Australians’ movements are restricted by the COVID 19 pandemic.
- [Sky News Live Newsday program interview with Dr Rachel David on specialist treatment outside of hospital being covered](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-newsday-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-specialist-treatment-outside-of-hospital-being-covered/) - It's one of a key concern that patients with private health insurance have, that their care in the hospital is covered, but when they see their specialist out of hospital, it's not. And only the Medicare benefit is paid, so they need to pay a co-payment. This is fine if you're just having one surgery and it might be a one off thing, but for some people with chronic and complex conditions, this can add up to an enormous amount of money.
- [Throwing out community rating will make private health insurance less, not more, affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/throwing-out-community-rating-will-make-private-health-insurance-less-not-more-affordable/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David has warned community rating is critical to Australia’s current health system and keeps healthcare affordable for our ageing population. Dr David said the latest report from the Grattan Institute highlighted issues of concern in the private health sector previously identified by government and stakeholders, however it failed to offer any workable solutions.
- [Lowest premium increase in 19 years](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/lowest-premium-increase-in-19-years/) - Australian health funds have delivered the lowest premium increase in 19 years, by creating efficiencies and using retained capital. The average premium increase of 2.92% will come into effect on 1 April 2020. This demonstrates that health funds are committed to providing value to their members and ensuring Australia’s successful mixed public/private health system is sustainable well into the future.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding stopping public hospitals from rorting patients with private health insurance by allowing inexperienced doctors to treat them instead of their chosen specialist](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/stopping-public-hospitals-from-rorting-patients-with-phi/) - Health funds are calling on the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt to use the Government's new data matching powers to stop public hospitals from rorting patients with private health insurance by allowing inexperienced doctors to treat them instead of their chosen specialist.
- [Fee transparency website an important first step for patients](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fee-transparency-website-an-important-first-step-for-patients/) - The Federal Government’s fee transparency website is an important first step in helping private patients manage out-of-pocket costs. By publishing their fees on the website, doctors are helping address a key issue for consumers, giving them the power to compare costs and avoid getting ripped off by the small number of specialists who charge inappropriately high fees.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on a range of private health insurance issues](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-a-range-of-private-health-insurance-issues/) - So that's where we're trying to focus, to actually improve the benefit to younger people, firstly by delivering the lowest premium increase in 19 years earlier this year, and secondly by providing a youth discount, which is 2 per cent per year, up to 10 per cent for anyone under 30. And this has been pretty well received, because mental health is a big reason why young people keep their health insurance, and the private sector is often the only place where you can get hospital treatment for mental health conditions.
- [6PR Perth Live program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-perth-live-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-premium-increases/) - The health funds don't want to charge consumers one dollar extra for their health insurance. There's absolutely no doubt, and our prudential regulator has confirmed this, that the reason that health funds premiums go up is because we're paying more for healthcare claims.
- [ABC News <em>News Breakfast</em> program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding private health insurance and current issues](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-news-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-private-health-insurance-and-current-issues/) - Well look, we have over 13 million Australians reliant on private health to get timely access to surgery, dental care, and mental health care. So we actually don't want to put premiums up by a single dollar. The reason that premiums go up is because health funds are paying for more healthcare in claims.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on the funding of out of hospital care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-funding-of-out-of-hospital-care/) - Look I'm glad you ask that because one of the big issues faced by consumers when they go down a pathway of private health, particularly for chronic conditions is the additive effect of out of pocket costs that they have to pay when they see a specialist - either a GP or a non-GP specialist in the community.
- [ABC News Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the release of the AMA report card on private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-release-of-the-ama-report-card-on-private-health-insurance/) - It's an issue that needs to be addressed at some point soon by the Federal Government. And I think there's broad awareness of what the problem is. We've known for some years that the baby boom population - which is larger - has very high expectations of working longer and using more health care would create this effect. We've put a number of proposals to the Federal Government about improving participation in younger people that are under active consideration.
- [2GB The Steve Price Show program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the co-funding of care outside the hospital](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-the-steve-price-show-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-co-funding-of-care-outside-the-hospital/) - Yes, and I think that more importantly this is something that has worried consumers and patients about private health for some time, that they could pay into their private health and get top hospital cover, but because of this really out of date legislation that dates to the 1970s, we're not able to cover them for the cost of seeing a specialist or a GP to manage their condition in the community, and people get really frustrated particularly if they have a condition like diabetes or cancer.
- [ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding medical device companies’ failure to deliver promised savings as part of the MTAA/Government agreement](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-medical-device-companies-failure-to-deliver-promised-savings-as-part-of-the-mtaa-government-agreement/) - The main reason that premiums do go up is because health funds are paying for more health care. We have a large baby boom population that's of the age where they are requiring more surgery, and the demand is higher than it's ever been in our history for surgical interventions. But that is actually the reason why we can't be paying above market rates for commonly used medical technology.
- [Australian health funds subsidise a record 100 million health services in the last 12 months](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-health-funds-subsidise-a-record-100-million-health-services-in-the-last-12-months/) - APRA data released today confirms the commitment from Australian health funds to improve affordability and provide value for members. For the first time, health funds have subsidised more than 100 million services over the year to September 2019. Fewer than 3% of these medical services had unknown out of pocket costs.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the release of APRA data](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-release-of-apra-data/) - Look, I think it's a little bit disappointing because I think this is a bit of a distraction because of the soaring costs of medical devices that we've seen after an agreement with the government that the multinational manufacturers, or the overseas manufacturers made which was meant to reduce costs.
- [ABC Radio Canberra program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the Grattan report on private hospitals and Minister Hunt's announcement to allow health funds to cover specialist treatment delivered outside hospitals and in the home](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/grattan-report-on-private-hospitals-and-minister-hunts-announcement/) - The peak body representing private health insurers has welcomed the Federal Government's plans for a shakeup of the rules governing health funds. The Health Minister Greg Hunt is working on changes that allow health funds to cover specialist treatment delivered outside hospitals and in the home, and we'll hear from him shortly. While the industry has welcomed the move, private hospitals are dismissing a new report out today that questions the hospitals efficiency and the excessive costs they charge.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on proposals for health funds to cover some specialist care out of hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-proposals-for-health-funds-to-cover-some-specialist-care-out-of-hospitals/) - Well look we saw in the press this morning that Greg Hunt was flagging that he had asked the industry for proposals to bring forward our ability to be able to fund some specialist care out of hospitals. Now, you correctly identified that one of people's main gripes with private health insurance is that it only covers them for hospital care and the funds actually aren't allowed to cover their specialist treatment out of hospital.
- [2GB The Steve Price Show program interview with Dr Rachel David on PHI membership and out-of-pocket medical costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-the-steve-price-show-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-phi-membership-and-out-of-pocket-medical-costs/) - But taking a step back, some of the data that the Government and the regulators released yesterday, showed that health funds are actually paying record benefits this year on behalf of consumers, more than ever before.
- [Medical devices companies continue to drive up premiums for consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medical-devices-companies-continue-to-drive-up-premiums-for-consumers/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said medical device companies are driving up the volume of sales of their products to offset Government measures to reduce inflated prices and bring premiums down.
- [6PR Morning program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding MTAA report](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-morning-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-mtaa-report/) - The other point I'd make is that profit, health fund profits, and bearing in mind about half the funds are not for profit, but health fund profits are not the driver of premium increases and the Prudential Regulator has been very clear about that. Premiums go up because health funds are paying for more health care as the population ages.
- [PHA plan to put private healthcare within reach of young Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-plan-to-put-private-healthcare-within-reach-of-young-australians/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said restoring the rebate to 30% for Australians under 40 would drive increased young adult participation in PHI, helping to maintain the balance in our mixed private-public health system. Dr David said health funds “have now gone as far as they can to manage premium costs at
- [ABC Radio Canberra AM program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding proposal for employers to be given tax breaks if they pay for health cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-canberra-am-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-proposal-for-employers-to-be-given-tax-breaks-if-they-pay-for-health-cover/) - Younger Australians are abandoning private health insurance or not taking it up at all. That's a big problem according to Dr Rachel David who's the CEO of Private Healthcare Australia and she says one of the ways to make the product more attractive would be to offer tax breaks for companies that pay for their staff's private health insurance.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding proposals to attract young members to take out private health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-proposals-to-attract-young-members-to-take-out-private-health/) - So to address that and the address the perspective of younger people, that they're paying more and getting less, we have done a very detailed proposal that we have to put to government. It's been well-researched. We've talked to over 5000 people around the country, and what we've asked is that we get employers involved, that we have an FBT exemption, so people under 40 can pay for their private health insurance in pre-tax dollars.
- [2GB The Steve Price Show program interview with Dr Rachel David on calls on companies to give tax incentives to pay for their employees' health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-the-steve-price-show-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-calls-on-companies-to-give-tax-incentives-to-pay-for-their-employees-health-insurance/) - Private health insurance is in the news again. The industry's peak body has today called on companies to give tax incentives to pay for their employees' health insurance. It's hoped that that scheme will stop the number of young people abandoning private health insurance and it will help limit premium rises. Forty per cent of people aged between 20 and 39 had hospital cover in 2014; that figure is now down to 34 per cent.
- [6PR Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David on encouraging youth participation in private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-encouraging-youth-participation-in-private-health-insurance/) - So to help under 40s get a foothold in this system and also gain some of the very significant benefits from private health, like treatment on time, broader access to mental health services and so forth, we've asked that the Government consider that employers be exempt from fringe benefits tax if employees wish to receive better private health insurance as a benefit of their package.
- [PHA Independent Chair's Speech to the Actuaries Institute – Future of Health Seminar](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/future-of-health-seminar-speech/) - Private Healthcare Australia Independent Chair, Hon. John Hill Speech to the Actuaries Institute – Future of Health Seminar 23 October 2019 Grand Hyatt, Melbourne On 7 May 2017, before the Federal Budget of that year, the Australian Health Care Reform Alliance called on the Government: to abolish the PHI rebate in today’s budget and use
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the release of the PHI industry's annual hospital high claims report](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-release-of-the-phi-industrys-annual-hospital-high-claims-report/) - Now we've seen recently where it seems a lot of people are dropping private health because either they don't see the value or they feel they can't afford it. But what is interesting is that the value of private health care insurance for young Australians needing prolonged treatment for mental health care has been highlighted in an annual hospital high claims report, which I've got. And it says that nearly half of all payments for hospital treatment by Australian health funds were for claims where the benefit payment for the episode of care was more than $10,000.
- [ABC Radio Brisbane Drive program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the increasing number of Australians without private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-brisbane-drive-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-increasing-number-of-australians-without-private-health-insurance/) - Well look, just to be clear a lot of people still do have private health insurance. In fact we have no trouble whatsoever selling health insurance to people aged over 60. The reason the problems that are being raised in the media have come about is largely because of younger people dropping out. And we’d be the first to acknowledge that is because of the cost.
- [2GB Wake Up Australia program interview with Dr Rachel David on public hospitals gouging health fund members of more than $1.6 billion a year](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-wake-up-australia-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-public-hospitals-gouging-health-fund-members-of-more-than-1-6-billion-a-year/) - What we are more concerned about is people turning up to public emergency departments with medical problems, so they don't require surgery, but they're turning up with shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness and other problems and while they're actually distressed and unwell, being approached and harassed to give over their private health insurance details.
- [PHI reforms delivering record benefits for health fund members, as soaring medical device volumes again threaten premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-reforms-delivering-record-benefits-for-health-fund-members-as-soaring-medical-device-volumes-again-threaten-premiums/) - Australian health funds have paid a record $21.1 billion in benefits on behalf of their members in the 12 months to June 2019, according to the latest APRA statistics. This again confirms the fact private health insurance delivers value for money, particularly for those who commit to it for the long haul.
- [Radio National Sunday Extra program - panel discussion regarding complaints over excessive fees for surgical procedures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-sunday-extra-program-panel-discussion-regarding-complaints-over-excessive-fees-for-surgical-procedures/) - There are a number of reasons why healthcare costs are going up at a higher rate than household incomes or inflation. Some of that's just due to the fact that we're paying for more healthcare because we have this very large baby boom. It's bigger than other populations that's just hitting an age where they're requiring more medical intervention. So Medicare and the private health system are having to outlay more funds for that particular generation.
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding changes to private health insurance categories](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-changes-to-private-health-insurance-categories/) - So, it was clear there was a bit of a misunderstanding around what we've actually done in the private health insurance reform. There is a new excess limit, a maximum excess, of $1500 which only a family can take out as a policy and it is the maximum.
- [We already know what the issues are with private health and how to fix them – let’s get on with it](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/we-already-know-what-the-issues-are-with-private-health-and-how-to-fix-them-lets-get-on-with-it/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David says there have been multiple inquiries into the root causes of the issues with private health that have all reached the same conclusions. It’s now time to get on and fix the problems to give consumers relief from rising premiums. “We already know the Australian health system
- [ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David about value for money in private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-about-value-for-money-in-private-health-insurance/) - I think the issue is a number of people are getting value for money, but as you've correctly said, it is people aged over 55 that are now seeking medical treatment in almost record amounts. And really there's no new information in the Grattan Institute report.
- [ABC Radio Canberra Early AM program interview with Dr Rachel David and co. on the value of private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-canberra-early-am-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-and-co-on-the-value-of-private-health-insurance/) - If more people drop out, I think what you're going to see is increasing pressure on hospital waiting lists, particularly for essential non-emergency surgery like joint replacements. You can increase the subsidy to low and middle income earners to help them access non-emergency surgery. You can reduce wasteful costs like inflated medical device prices and unnecessary care occurring in hospital.
- [2GB Money News program interview with Dr Rachel David on rising private health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-money-news-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-rising-private-health-insurance-premiums/) - Look, overall, private health insurance does exactly what it says it does. It covers the cost of hospital treatment, but what it can't cover is individual doctor's bills. We can't cover, by law, the doctor's bills which occur out of hospital.
- [ABC Radio Adelaide Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the State Government’s proposal to reduce public hospital wait lists](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-state-governments-proposal-to-reduce-public-hospital-wait-lists/) - But I would say to private patients this isn't a reason not to take out private health insurance. Under this arrangement you still don't know when you're going to be able to have your surgery, you won't have control over that. You won't know where it's going to take place or by whom. If you have private health insurance you will be in control of those factors and have one person responsible for your care.
- [Heath funds committed to reducing out-of-pocket costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/heath-funds-committed-to-reducing-out-of-pocket-costs/) - The Chief Executive of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Rachel David said health funds are committed to reducing out-of-pocket costs for consumers but increasing rebates to chase rising doctor’s fees could cause premiums to skyrocket.
- [It’s time to get on with the job](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/its-time-to-get-on-with-the-job/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said the era of enquiries was over and it was time to get on and fix the problems in our healthcare sector on behalf of consumers.
- [Almost half of all hospital claims on private health insurance exceed $10,000](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/almost-half-of-all-hospital-claims-on-private-health-insurance-exceed-10000/) - Nearly half of all payments for hospital treatment by Australian health funds (47%) were for claims where the benefit payment for the episode of care was more than $10,000. Health funds paid more than $7.14 billion in benefits for individual hospital claims (for which the benefit payment exceeded $10,000) during 2018, an increase of 4.8% compared to 2017.
- [PHI reforms deliver increased benefits for consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-reforms-deliver-increased-benefits-for-consumers/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said today’s APRA statistics confirm that the Morrison Government’s policy levers for PHI are delivering for consumers. “APRA statistics released today show that the benefits being paid by health funds on behalf of their members have exceeded premium revenue growth in the twelve months from March 2018
- [PHI delivers record dental benefits, according to APRA](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-delivers-record-dental-benefits-according-to-apra/) - The value of PHI in funding the dental care of Australian consumers has been confirmed by the latest APRA statistics. Health funds paid a record $2.79 billion in dental benefits on behalf of members in the year to March 2019. This represents a 4.4 percent increase in dental benefits paid compared with the previous twelve
- [PHA Congratulates Minister for Health, Greg Hunt](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-congratulates-minister-for-health-greg-hunt/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the reappointment of Greg Hunt as Health Minister demonstrated the Morrison Government’s commitment to continuing health care reform and maintaining balance in Australia’s mixed public – private health system. “The experience that Minster Hunt brings to the role will ensure the smooth ongoing implementation of reform
- [6PR Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David on the issue of surgeons' fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-issue-of-surgeons-fees/) - By law, private medical specialists have the right to charge what they like for hospital care and for treatment out of hospital, and as you know private health insurance can fund some of the hospital care in situations where people actually have insurance. But for the small number of doctors that charge very high fees, we want to signal to patients that they actually do have a choice.
- [ABC Radio Melbourne Drive interview with Dr Rachel David on exorbitant surgery fees and redoing patient's finances](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-drive-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-exorbitant-surgery-fees-and-redoing-patients-finances/) - Well, look, we're concerned about it when patients are in a vulnerable situation. Like, a lot of these surgeries are occurring with people who've had cancer, that might be requiring a reconstruction, or are in a situation where they've been told that because they're paying a high amount of money that they're going to get a better outcome, and it's also occurring in some areas where there's quite a lot of desperation around the situation, like weight loss surgery and IVF.
- [Pensioner Dental Plan Could Blow the Budget](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pensioner-dental-plan-could-blow-the-budget/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said while the concept of the ALP’s Pensioner Dental Plan might be appealing, funding it would be a different story. “The Pensioner Dental Plan alone isn’t enough to provide free dental care for Australian pensioners. The cost of one dental implant can be five times that of
- [PHA calls for commitment to the means-tested PHI rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-calls-for-commitment-to-the-means-tested-phi-rebate/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said both major political parties must commit to restoring the Private Health Insurance Rebate to 30% for low and middle income Australians or risk an exodus of members to the already overstretched public hospital system. “The means-tested rebate helps keep premiums affordable for battlers and creating uncertainty
- [Health funds strongly support plan to reduce medical gap fees for consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-strongly-support-plan-to-reduce-medical-gap-fees-for-consumers/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David says the Opposition’s proposal to establish a national standard for informed financial consent is a positive step towards reducing out-of-pocket costs, and allowing consumers to take greater control of their specialist care. “Health funds have long been advocating for more transparency on behalf of their members who
- [5AA Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David on out-of-pocket healthcare costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-out-of-pocket-healthcare-costs/) - It's not everyone. It's the absolute minority of specialists but that's why both the Liberal and the Labor parties have promised that they are going to introduce measures to help consumers and their GPs choose a specialist by giving them access to a much wider amount of information about which specialists charge lower gaps and which specialists charge higher gaps.
- [6PR Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David on out of pocket costs for cancer patients](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-out-of-pocket-costs-for-cancer-patients/) - Well look, there are a couple of things here and first I should say that the health funds really welcome the focus on out of pocket costs occurring for specialist consultations.
- [5AA Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David on hospital cover being classified into either Gold, Silver, Bronze or Basic tiers from 1 April 2019](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-hospital-cover-being-classified-into-either-gold-silver-bronze-or-basic-tiers-from-1-april-2019/) - So what we've got is probably the best compromise that we could come up with that also simplified the system. So people will be able to choose between the four tiers. So Gold, as much as possible, mimics the top hospital cover that you have now, and Silver and Bronze will contain some exclusions.
- [3AW Drive interview with Dr Rachel David on Federal Government's private healthcare reforms from 1 April 2019](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-drive-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-federal-governments-private-healthcare-reforms-from-1-april-2019/) - Well, the tiering system is basically designed to make it clear to people what level of cover they have or how much value is in their policy. So, a Gold policy is equivalent to what's been called Top Hospital Cover, and that basically covers pretty much everything. The Basic level at the other end is more an entry level product which is suitable for younger people just starting out.
- [ABC Radio Sydney Focus interview with Dr Rachel David on changes to the health insurance system from 1 April 2019](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-sydney-focus-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-changes-to-the-health-insurance-system-from-1-april-2019/) - Look, as much as possible, the system has been designed to mirror what's happening in the market already, but to help people choose an appropriate product for their life stage and make sure that if they do present to hospital that they are fully covered. We've talked about the tiers - Gold, Silver, Bronze, Basic - but the other thing that's been done is that the clinical definitions or the ways that medical treatments are described has been made consistent between the funds so there's no confusion, that a procedure might be described one way in one fund and a different way in another fund and those definitions have been made very inclusive. So there's no slicing and dicing into treatment areas. So if you're covered for orthopaedics or your bone and joint, you're covered for bone and joints.
- [Former Health Minister appointed as PHA’s Independent Chair](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/former-health-minister-appointed-as-phas-independent-chair/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) has appointed former SA Government Minister, John Hill, to the position of Independent Chair.
- [Greens path of destruction for Australian health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/greens-path-of-destruction-for-australian-health/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Doctor Rachel David said the Greens’ plan to abolish the means-tested PHI rebate would put choice in health care out of reach for low-income earners and put unsustainable pressure on public hospitals. “No serious health policy-maker would contemplate the Greens proposal to abolish the PHI rebate as even a vague
- [5AA Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David about private health insurance reforms](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-about-private-health-insurance-reforms/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 30/01/2019 Time: 10:07 AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: And this is a chestnut that we really need to explore and that is the business of private health. Private Healthcare Australia has proposed a number of key reforms to address the
- [6PR Perth Live interview with Dr Rachel David about PHA's Budget submission 2019-20](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-perth-live-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-about-phas-budget-submission-2019-20/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Perth Live Date: 30/01/2019 Time: 4:07 PM Compere: Oliver Peterson Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia OLIVER PETERSON: I'm wondering if you have abandoned your private health insurance - has it become all too expensive for you, you've just walked away, you've dropped it. Because one thing's for sure
- [Private Healthcare Australia Supports Health System Reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-australia-supports-health-system-reform/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the Opposition’s proposal to establish an expert commission to oversee long term health reform was a positive step towards ensuring the sustainability of Australia’s healthcare system. “An Australian Health Care Reform Commission should be truly independent, well resourced, capable of delivering results and prepared to
- [The decline in PHI hospital cover participation threatens Australia’s world class health system – the reform process must address this](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-decline-in-phi-hospital-cover-participation-threatens-australias-world-class-health-system-the-reform-process-must-address-this/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David has warned that further collaborative reforms to address rising healthcare costs are urgently needed or PHI participation could fall to 30% by 2030-2035. The latest PHI statistics released by the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA) support the industry’s claim that healthcare stakeholders must work collaboratively to reduce
- [Action on Gap Fees will address a key consumer concern about private health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/action-on-gap-fees-will-address-a-key-consumer-concern-about-private-health/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) Chief Executive Dr Rachel David says a Federal Government plan to provide consumers more information about medical specialist fees and charges is a welcome step, and further urgent action must be taken against medical specialists who charge egregious fees or fail to inform consumers of likely costs in advance. A major
- [ABC News Mornings Interview regarding out-of-pocket costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-mornings-interview-regarding-out-of-pocket-costs/) - The Federal Government has foreshadowed a plan to help consumers get more information about out of pocket expenses for medical attention. It's a joint project between the Department of Health and Private Healthcare Australia.
- [ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David about using private health insurance in public hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-about-using-private-health-insurance-in-public-hospitals/) - Look, what we're responding to this time is yet more reports of people going to a hospital in an emergency, to a public hospital, and being put under pressure to sign up as a private patient even though they've presented as a public patient.
- [Health funds must be part of dental care solution](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-must-be-part-of-dental-care-solution/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) has warned a universal dental scheme will cost taxpayers more than $10 billion a year, and will grow rapidly. Currently we spend $10.2 billion in Australia on essential dental services and there is still unmet need. PHA is proposing a more affordable and accessible dental health system by recommending Federal Governments
- [Lowest average premium increase in 18 years](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/lowest-average-premium-increase-in-18-years/) - The Government’s Private Health Insurance Reforms have had a positive impact on the affordability of Private Health Insurance (PHI), with the announcement of the lowest average premium increase in 18 years for Australian consumers.
- [Private Healthcare Australia calls for rising consumer healthcare costs to be addressed in Federal Budget](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-australia-calls-for-rising-consumer-healthcare-costs-to-be-addressed-in-federal-budget/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) has proposed a number of key reforms to address the rising costs of healthcare and stem the movement of members to an already overburdened public health system. With healthcare costs rising by five percent annually, it is more important than ever for government to adopt the reforms to maintain the balance
- [Private cover helped Karen’s daughter with juvenile arthritis](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-cover-helped-karens-daughter-with-juvenile-arthritis/) - 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.
- [Jenna’s childbirth complications were eased with private cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/jennas-childbirth-complications-were-eased-with-private-cover/) - Suffering preeclampsia and requiring an emergency c-section, Jenna was thankful her private heath cover was there to help every step along the way.
- [Patient Safety must be the Priority](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/patient-safety-must-be-the-priority/) - The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care’s Atlas of Healthcare Variation is an important reminder to all healthcare practitioners that appropriate care and patient safety should always be the priority, according to Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David. Dr David said that while Australian consumers generally had good access to
- [Productivity Commission Inquiry must address rising input costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/productivity-commission-inquiry-must-address-rising-input-costs/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) says the Opposition’s proposed Productivity Commission (PC) Inquiry into the private health insurance industry must consider the impact of rising input costs in the private healthcare sector. “PHA fully supports a PC inquiry into private health. The industry is absolutely committed to Medicare, our universal health system and to maintaining the
- [Gold Silver Bronze Basic system will help consumers choose and use the best health cover for them](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/gold-silver-bronze-basic-system-will-help-consumers-choose-and-use-the-best-health-cover-for-them/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said new private health insurance rules announced by the Government today will make it easier for consumers to choose and use their health cover. “Australian consumers have asked for a PHI system which is easier to understand and more transparent and the Gold, Silver, Bronze, Basic classification
- [ABC Radio Brisbane Interview with Dr Rachel David (PHA) and Leanne Wells (CHF) regarding Gold, Silver, Bronze and Basic health cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-brisbane-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-gold-silver-bronze-and-basic-health-cover/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Brisbane Program: Breakfast Date: 19/10/2018 Time: 9:10 AM Compere: John Taylor and Rebecca Levingston Interviewee: Leanne Wells, CEO, Consumer Health Forum; Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia JOHN TAYLOR: Do you have private health insurance? And do you know exactly what you're covered for and what you're not covered for?
- [Medical device costs, increasing complexity and growing numbers of long hospital stays for mental health problems drive high health insurance claims](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medical-device-costs-increasing-complexity-and-growing-numbers-of-long-hospital-stays-for-mental-health-problems-drive-high-health-insurance-claims/) - PHA’s Annual High Claims 2018 Report demonstrates the value of having private health insurance, particularly for younger Australians, but it also highlights the impact medical device costs and long hospital admissions for mental health problems are having on claims (report attached). The report reflects the latest APRA 2017/18 data that shows prostheses (medical device) benefits
- [APRA data confirms the value of private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/apra-data-confirms-the-value-of-private-health-insurance/) - Health funds paid a record $20.5 billion in benefits on behalf of their members in 2017-18, an increase of 3.4% on the previous year, according to the latest APRA Report. Private Healthcare CEO Dr Rachel David said APRA’s Operations of Private Health Insurance Annual Report 2017-18, confirmed that health funds are delivering real value to
- [Private health funds deliver record health benefits for members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-funds-deliver-record-health-benefits-for-members/) - Benefits paid by health funds on behalf of their members increased by 3.62% to reach a record $20.4 billion in the year to September 2018. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the latest data released by APRA demonstrated the ongoing commitment of Australian health funds to addressing the value of private health
- [APRA confirms PHI capital reserves not responsible for premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/apra-confirms-phi-capital-reserves-not-responsible-for-premium-increases/) - Premiums have increased because more claims are being paid, not because of retained capital or excess profits Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said APRA’s review of capital standards for private health insurers was designed to ensure health funds retained sufficient capital to protect their members. APRA has emphasised that capital levels in
- [Cameron was grateful to have private cover after a serious workplace accident](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/cameron-was-grateful-to-have-private-cover-after-a-serious-workplace-accident/) - Countless physio sessions covered by his private insurance meant he could get back on the slopes sooner
- [PHI funds a record 41 million dental services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-funds-a-record-41-million-dental-services/) - Health funds are playing an increasingly important role in ensuring Australians have access to high quality dental care, according to Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David. “In Dental Health Week it is worth noting that health funds are paying more than ever before for dental services in Australia, and more than both the
- [Senate delivers historic Private Health reform package](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-delivers-historic-private-health-reform-package/) - The Senate’s decision to pass the Private Health Insurance reforms today signals widespread support for Australian health funds’ commitment to work with government, hospitals, consumers and specialist doctors to improve the affordability and value of PHI for 13.5 million members. PHA Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said this was an important day for Australia’s health
- [6PR Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David on private health reforms](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-health-reforms/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 11/09/2018 Time: 9:23 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: Now last night a key piece of legislation affecting your private health insurance past the Senate. So these are reforms that the Government have been working on for a while. They're now
- [PHA clarifies reports regarding AMA’s My Health Record scaremongering](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-clarifies-reports-regarding-amas-my-health-record-scaremongering/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said the AMA’s scaremongering about health funds accessing My Health Record data, demonstrates an astonishing level of ignorance about how private health insurance operates. Private health insurance is based on the principle of ‘community rating’, which means consumers pay the same premium for the same policy regardless of
- [The Truth about PHI Reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-truth-about-phi-reform/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said a media report in News Ltd publications about a leaked Deloitte document was completely wrong and an example of ‘fake news’. “For the record, the so called leaked modelling was rejected months ago by health funds, the Department of Health and the Private Health Ministerial Advisory Council.
- [Productivity Commission urgently needed to consider more care options given increase in  mental health admissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/productivity-commission-urgently-needed-to-consider-more-care-options-given-increase-in-mental-health-admissions/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David says the Morrison Government’s Productivity Commission Inquiry into mental health should investigate options to increase funding and support for models of care in the community. Private health insurance is a major funder of mental health care in Australia. Health funds pay for 76% of same day mental health
- [ABC Radio Perth interview with Dr Rachel David regarding Labor's proposal to cap premium increases to 2 percent](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-perth-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-potential-impact-of-labors-proposal-to-cap-health-insurance-premium-increases-to-2-per-cent/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Perth Program: Breakfast Date: 27/06/2018 Time: 8:34 AM Compere: Newsreader Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia PETER BELL: In recent weeks, we've heard from you about your struggles to meet the increasing costs of health insurance. So, will it become a major election issue? Where are you at with
- [Revelations about secret kickbacks paid against medical device benefits highlight urgent need for further reform of medical device regulation in Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/revelations-about-secret-kickbacks-paid-against-medical-device-benefits/) - "Revelations by the ABC 7.30 Report yesterday about secret rebates paid against cardiac device benefits must be swiftly dealt with by the Federal Government. The regulation of transparency in the medical device market must dramatically improve," CEO of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Rachel David said today. "This is a clear indication medical device prices in
- [New ‘Gold/Silver/Bronze/Basic’ classification will help consumers choose and use their private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/new-gold-silver-bronze-basic-classification-will-help-consumers-choose-and-use-their-private-health-insurance/) - Private Healthcare Australia, the peak industry body for Australian private health funds, has welcomed the Federal Government’s new classification scheme for private health insurance. “This new system marks a major improvement to how consumers choose and use their private health insurance,” CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David said today. “Over a two year
- [Dr Rachel David interview on ABC Radio Adelaide, Mornings](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-interview-on-abc-radio-adelaide-mornings/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Adelaide Program: Mornings Date: 16/07/2018 Time: 9:09 AM Compere: David Bevan Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia DAVID BEVAN: But let's talk to Dr Rachel David. She's with Private Healthcare Australia. She represents the industry. Good morning, Rachel David. RACHEL DAVID: Good morning, David. DAVID BEVAN: Can you
- [6PR Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David re gold/silver/bronze/basic announcement](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-re-gold-silver-bronze-basic-announcement/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 16/07/2018 Time: 9:24 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: Now, we've talked about this private health insurance shakeup in the past - gold, silver, bronze and basic. That's what your private health insurance policies are going to be marketed as.
- [Dr Rachel David interview with Leon Byner, 5AA Mornings program](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-rachel-david-interview-with-leon-byner-5aa-mornings-program/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 16/07/2018 Time: 10:07 AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: Now, there's going to be a new system very soon of private health. In fact, we'll have the Health Minister in the studio early tomorrow and we'll go through a lot
- [ABC Alice Springs Drive with Dr Rachel David re patient travel](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/14622-2/) - Transcript Station: ABC Alice Springs Program: Drive Show Date: 26/07/2018 Time: 4:46 PM Compere: Rohan Barwick (interviewer Paul Serratore) Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia and Dr Adam Coltzau, Rural Doctors Association of Australia PAUL SERRATORE: Do you have private health insurance at the moment? And if not, is it because you
- [Sky News Live - Beattie and Newman program: Interview with Dr Rachel David regarding health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-beattie-and-newman-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-health-funds/) - Transcript Station: Sky News Live Program: Beattie and Newman Date: 7/05/2018 Time: 8:01 PM Compere: Peter Beattie and Campbell Newman Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia Campbell Newmann But anyway, tonight's not about the weather. It's all about the issue of private healthcare, private hospitals, the public system. Tonight we're going to let
- [Total PHI membership hits record numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/total-phi-membership-hits-record-numbers/) - Private Health Insurance reforms have had a positive impact on PHI membership with the latest APRA figures showing an extra 50,000 Australians have taken out health cover in the 12 months ending March 2018. There is now a record 13.58 million Australians with either hospital cover, extras or both. Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel
- [ABC News interview with Dr Rachel David regarding Roy Morgan survey](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-roy-morgan-survey/) - Transcript Station: ABC News Program: ABC News Date: 17/05/2018 Time: 10:54 AM Compere: Newsreader Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia COMPERE: A new survey shows more than a quarter of a million people ditched their private health insurance in the past year. Not surprisingly, ever increasing costs are the main reason. The latest
- [State Governments must stop the cost-shifting madness and recommit to Medicare principles](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/state-governments-must-stop-the-cost-shifting-madness-and-recommit-to-medicare-principles/) - “The harvesting of patients from public emergency departments and pressuring them to go private, risks undermining Medicare and the Australian health system,” said Dr Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia. “The AIHW Report shows that the median wait time for elective surgery for public patients (42 days) in public hospitals is twice as long
- [Urgent action on out-of-pocket expenses required for private health to remain viable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/urgent-action-on-out-of-pocket-expenses-required-for-private-health-to-remain-viable/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David has called for a whole-of-sector commitment to increase transparency and tackle escalating out-of-pocket costs faced by consumers in the private health sector. The need to challenge growth in out-of-pocket medical expenses for consumers has been highlighted by the ABC’s Four Corners program. Private Healthcare Australia contributed to
- [Cancer claims incorrect](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/cancer-claims-incorrect/) - Media reports that women will only be covered for breast cancer treatment under the most expensive health fund policies are wrong, PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said today. “These claims cause unnecessary concern and stress for health consumers. “Health funds have worked with the Government, hospitals, doctors and consumers to develop a plan that
- [Arbitrary cap on premiums threatens future of smaller health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/arbitrary-cap-on-premiums-threatens-future-of-smaller-health-funds/) - The CEO of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Rachel David has confirmed Australia’s smaller regional and employee-based health funds will be under threat in the immediate future, if premium increases are arbitrarily capped at 2%. “If something sounds too good to be true it usually is, and Labor’s 2% premium cap policy is no exception. The
- [ABC Radio Canberra AM program: Interview with Dr Rachel David regarding new survey released by the Consumers Health Forum](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-canberra-am-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-new-survey-released-by-the-consumers-health-forum/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Canberra Program: AM Date: 5/4/2018 Time: 8:13 AM Compere: Sabra Lane Interviewees: Susi Dusting, cancer patient; Leanne Wells, CEO, Consumers Health Forum; Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia NEWSREADER: Getting cancer is tough physically, emotionally, and in a lot of cases, financially. A new survey has given an insight into just
- [Sky News Live Now program interview with Catherine King, Shadow Minister for Health regarding private health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-now-program-interview-with-catherine-king-shadow-minister-for-health-regarding-private-health-insurance-premiums/) - Transcript Station: Sky News Live Program: Live Now Date: 2/4/2018 Time: 9:35 AM Compere: Samantha Maiden Interviewee: Catherine King, Shadow Minister for Health SAMANTHA MAIDEN: Joining me now live to discuss this is the Shadow Health Minister Catherine King. Good morning Catherine. CATHERINE KING: Good morning Samantha. SAMANTHA MAIDEN: Now, you've accused the Government of
- [3YB Great South Coast Today program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding private health insurance premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3yb-great-south-coast-today-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-private-health-insurance-premium-increases/) - Transcript Station: 3YB Program: Great South Coast Today Date: 6/4/2018 Time: 12:29 PM Compere: Denis Napthine Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia DENIS NAPTHINE: … CEO of Private Healthcare Australia. But before I talk to Rachel David, I must declare that I am a director of GMHBA, which is a members-owned, not-for-profit private
- [Triple J Hack program interview examining the question whether to enrol in private health insurance or just rely on the public health system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/triple-j-hack-program-interview-examining-the-question-whether-to-enrol-in-private-health-insurance-or-just-rely-on-the-public-health-system/) - Transcript Station: Triple J Program: Hack Date: 5/4/2018 Time: 5:39 PM Compere: Tom Tilley Interviewees: Karen Willis, Professor, Allied Health Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne Health [Excerpt]; Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia; Stephen Stockwell, Reporter TOM TILLEY: It's time for another Hack Investigates where we investigate the questions that you want answered. You
- [Radio National Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on the cost of private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-cost-of-private-health-insurance/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: Breakfast Date: 18/4/2018 Time: 8:05 AM Compere: Fran Kelly Interviewees: Dr Henry Cutler, Director, Macquarie University Centre for the Health Economy; Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia FRAN KELLY: Right now, though, the cost of private health insurance is shaping up as a major issue at the next federal
- [Radio National Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David on cost of living pressures and rising private health insurance costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-cost-of-living-pressures-and-rising-private-health-insurance-costs/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: Breakfast Date: 16/4/2018 Time: 7:41 AM Compere: Fran Kelly Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia FRAN KELLY: Cost of living pressures are front and centre of the federal Government's agenda. Look no further than the focus almost daily on electricity prices. But equally vexing for governments and particularly
- [Health funds back evidence-based approach to improving the MBS by reducing low-value](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-back-evidence-based-approach-to-improving-the-mbs-by-reducing-low-value/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David, said the Government’s response to the latest MBS Review Taskforce recommendations was an endorsement of evidence-based healthcare in Australia and would lead to better health outcomes and value for consumers. “The PHI industry has long supported this clinician-led review which makes recommendations to the Government on how the
- [Turnbull Budget delivers safety and quality in healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/turnbull-budget-delivers-safety-and-quality-in-healthcare/) - The Turnbull Government’s 2018-19 PHI Budget measures demonstrate its commitment to making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for all Australians. The Government’s response to taskforce recommendations from the Medicare Benefits Schedule Review will ensure best clinical practice and save $189.7 million over three years. PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the review was
- [PHI Rebate keeps Australia’s health system sustainable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-rebate-keeps-australias-health-system-sustainable/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said Labor’s failure to guarantee the future of the Private Health Insurance Rebate (Catherine King, Sky News 2 April 2018) will cause great concern among low and middle income earners and older Australians who value their private health insurance. “The means-tested PHI rebate is paid to individuals on
- [Sky News Live Now program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the private health insurance rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-now-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-private-health-insurance-rebate/) - Transcript Station: Sky News Live Program: Live Now Date: 2/4/2018 Time: 11:03 AM Compere: Samantha Maiden Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia SAMANTHA MAIDEN: Joining me now live from Sydney is Rachel David from the Private Health Funds Association [sic]. Good morning, Rachel. RACHEL DAVID: Morning, Sam. SAMANTHA MAIDEN: Can we start in
- [How many low-income earners will be affected by Labor’s rebate changes?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/how-many-low-income-earners-will-be-affected-by-labors-rebate-changes/) - Australia’s peak body representing the Private Health Insurance industry says Labor should clarify how many policies will have the PHI rebate removed and how many low income earners will be hit with big premium increases caused by this policy change. “Labor must explain the changes it has “already announced” to the Private Health Insurance Rebate
- [The Value of Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-value-of-private-health-insurance-2018-2/) - “Private Health Insurance gives consumers the peace of mind to know exactly when they can be admitted for surgery and other essential medical treatments and that is why the vast majority of consumers value it despite concerns about affordability,” according to Private Healthcare CEO Dr Rachel David. Dr David said while this year’s average premium
- [2GB Money News program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-money-news-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-premium-increases/) - Transcript Station: 2GB Program: Money News Date: 26/02/2018 Time: 7:24 PM Compere: Ross Greenwood Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia ROSS GREENWOOD: I want to take you back to last week, however, and remember that I told you that around Australia that the stated average increases in the health insurance premiums was going
- [ABC News Breakfast program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding State of the Health Funds Report](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-state-of-the-health-funds-report/) - Transcript Station: ABC NEWS Program: Breakfast Date: 6/03/2018 Time: 8:17 AM Compere: Glen Bartholomew Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GLEN BARTHOLOMEW: Well, that view - can do better - seems to apply to many Australians when they think about their health insurance. Complaints to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman have risen by
- [Sky News Live interview with Dr Rachel David regarding comments by Greens leader Richard Di Natale](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-live-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-comments-by-greens-leader-richard-di-natale/) - Transcript Station: Sky News Live Program: Live Now Date: 9/03/2018 Time: 9:52 AM Compere: Samantha Maiden Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia SAMANTHA MAIDEN: Now, yesterday on the program we spoke to the Greens leader, Richard Di Natale, about his agenda for the reform of the private health insurance sector. He wanted
- [6PR Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding the need to change regulations to allow health insurers to fund outpatient programs for mental health treatment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-the-need-to-change-regulations-to-allow-health-insurers-to-fund-outpatient-programs-for-mental-health-treatment/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 19/03/2018 Time: 10:35 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: The idea of a mental health hospital can be a bit confronting, I wonder, but there's a cost factor here as well. It's something that the private health insurance industry is urging
- [No Link Between High Priced Surgery and Quality](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/no-link-between-high-priced-surgery-and-quality/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s CEO Dr Rachel David says the majority of medical specialists in Australia try to the right things by their patients, but she has advised consumers to ask for quotes up front in advance of surgery. Responding to media reports about excessive out-of-pocket costs, Dr David said most specialists are aware that patients
- [Senate Report highlights urgent need for full transparency of inducements and benefits supplied to doctors and hospitals by medical device companies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-report-highlights-urgent-need-for-full-transparency-of-inducements-and-benefits-supplied-to-doctors-and-hospitals-by-medical-device-companies/) - Private Healthcare Australia has called for increased transparency across the medical device supply chain in response to Senate Inquiry report into the “number of women in Australia who have had transvaginal mesh implants and related matters”. PHA Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David, said the report highlighted the need for a more rigorous evidence base to
- [Sky Business News interview with Dr Rachel David on Labor's plan to cap premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-business-news-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-labors-plan-to-cap-premium-increases/) - Transcript Station: Sky Business News Program: Trading Day Date: 5/2/2018 Time: 3:20 PM Compere: Helen Dalley Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia HELEN DALLEY: Meanwhile, private health insurers have joined the Turnbull Government's attacks on Labor's plan to cap premium increases, amid what Labor believes will be a persuasive pre-election pitch to voters.
- [6PR Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David on the Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten's plan to cap the price increases of private health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-federal-opposition-leader-bill-shortens-plan-to-cap-the-price-increases-of-private-health-insurance-premiums/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 5/2/2018 Time: 9:08 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: Federally speaking, when it comes to politics, there was a big policy announcement by the Opposition leader Bill Shorten over the weekend. He wants to cap the annual increase that you pay
- [States must follow through on public hospital cost shifting to protect patients and Medicare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/states-must-follow-through-on-public-hospital-cost-shifting-to-protect-patients-and-medicare/) - “The COAG agreement on public hospital funding and health reform has put the issue of improved transparency firmly on the agenda, and this is very much in the interests of patients,” the CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David said today. “The issue of harvesting patients from Emergency Departments and pressuring them to go
- [Health Funds deliver record benefits to members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-deliver-record-benefits-to-members/) - Today’s APRA Quarterly Report confirms that health funds are delivering value for their members and returning the highest percentage of the premium back to members of all insurance types. “Health fund profit margins were 5.16% in the 12 months to December 2017 and health fund profits have remained stable over the last decade running between
- [ABC News Breakfast Program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding APRA data showing record lows of people with health insurance hospital cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-breakfast-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-apra-data-showing-record-lows-of-people-with-health-insurance-hospital-cover/) - Transcript Station: ABC News Program: Breakfast Date: 14/02/2018 Time: 7:46 AM Compere: Sandy Aloisi Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia SANDY ALOISI: Over 12,000 Australians have dropped their health insurance hospital cover over the past three months of 2017. That's according to new data from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. The data shows
- [ABC Radio Brisbane Focus program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding private health cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-brisbane-focus-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-private-health-cover/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Brisbane Program: Focus Date: 20/02/2018 Time: 10:07 AM Compere: Emma Griffiths Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia; Tom Godfrey, Spokesperson, CHOICE Source: http://www.abc.net.au/radio/brisbane/programs/focus/focus/9444466 EMMA GRIFFITHS: To the private health funds first, then. We have a panel of stakeholders around the nation ready to have a chat to you today.
- [ALP confirms health funds paid record benefits back to members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/alp-confirms-health-funds-paid-record-benefits-back-to-members/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David, said Labor’s latest crack at the private health insurance industry only confirmed that health funds were paying the highest percentage of premium back to customers of all insurance types. “It makes no sense as it simply proves what we have been saying all along. Health funds are consistently
- [5AA Mornings program interview with Dr Rachel David regarding private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/5aa-mornings-program-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-private-health-insurance/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 26/02/2018 Time: 10:06 AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: Now, there's a story that emerged yesterday that I reckon would have peaked a lot of people's interest with regards to private health insurance. Personally, I'm glad I took it out a
- [Sky News interview with Dr Rachel David regarding Bill Shorten's criticisms of the private health insurance industry](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-new-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-bill-shortens-criticisms-of-the-private-health-insurance-industry/) - Transcript Station: Sky News Live Program: Live Now Date: 1/2/2018 Time: 10:38 AM Compere: Samantha Maiden Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia SAMANTHA MAIDEN: Now, the other big story obviously coming out of Bill Shorten's year setting speech at the National Press Club earlier this week is this debate over private health insurance.
- [Radio National interview with Dr Rachel David regarding Bill Shorten's comments about private healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-bill-shortens-comments-about-private-healthcare/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: Breakfast Date: 31/01/2018 Time: 8:37 AM Compere: Fran Kelly Interviewees: Bill Shorten, Federal Opposition Leader; Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia FRAN KELLY: Well, Labor leader Bill Shorten's speech to the National Press Club yesterday has certainly grabbed him some headlines. Aside from promising to establish a federal anti-corruption
- [Capping premiums won’t fix rising health costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/capping-premiums-wont-fix-rising-health-costs/) - “The Opposition Leader’s policy to fix premiums at 2% for the first two years of a Labor Government won’t fix the challenges facing Australia’s health system and will undo years of reform which is just starting to deliver real dividends to Australian consumers,” said Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David. “There is only one
- [Calls for the Medicare Levy to be increased for high-income earners](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/calls-for-the-medicare-levy-to-be-increased-for-high-income-earners/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 17/01/2018 Time: 10:09 AM Compere: Matthew Pantelis Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia MATTHEW PANTELIS: Private health insurance. The insurance company Bupa wants the Medicare levy raised for high-income earners, and I suppose that would be because people are abandoning their health cover because it's all getting
- [Australian Consumers Value Basic Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australian-consumers-value-basic-cover/) - Australia’s peak representative body for the private health insurance industry has cautioned interest groups against reigniting the campaign to abolish low priced health cover, as consumers on those policies would face a premium increase of at least 16%. Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David said the Government’s decision to retain entry level policies as
- [Lowest premium increase in 17 years](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/lowest-premium-increase-in-17-years/) - Reduction in inflated medical device benefits drives lowest premium increase in 17 years Australian health funds have demonstrated their commitment to improving the affordability and value of private health insurance for their members by delivering the lowest average premium increase in 17 years. This result has been made possible because of the Federal Government intervening
- [Sky News interview with Dr Rachel David regarding health fund premium increases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sky-news-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-health-fund-premium-increases/) - Transcript Station: Sky News Live Program: Live Now Date: 25/01/2018 Time: 11:09 AM Compere: Samantha Maiden Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia; Mr Matthew Koce, CEO, Members Health SAMANTHA MAIDEN: And joining me now live to discuss this is Matt Koce, the CEO of Members Health, and Rachel David from Private Healthcare Australia.
- [No pot of gold in health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/no-pot-of-gold-in-health-funds/) - Australian health fund margins have remained stable at 4.5-6% over the last decade with funds consistently paying 86 cents in the premium dollar back to members to funds their healthcare. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said the Leader of the Opposition’s statement that “some of the biggest health insurance providers pocket a
- [PHA Appoints Experienced Chair](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-appoints-experienced-chair/) - Private Healthcare Australia has appointed highly respected and experienced Board Chair and Director, Julie-Anne Schafer as Chair of the PHA Board. PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the industry was fortunate to secure the skills and expertise of Ms Schafer who was extremely qualified to help guide the private health insurance sector through the
- [Health funds pay almost $20 billion in benefits](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-pay-almost-20-billion-in-benefits/) - APRA’s 2016-17 Private Health Insurance Annual Report confirms that health funds are delivering value for 13.5 million Australian consumers. Funds paid a record $19.83 billion in benefits on behalf of their members ($14.75 billion for hospital treatment, $4.87 billion for general treatment and $220 million for State levies) in 2016-17. Health fund premium revenue increased
- [ABC Radio Melbourne interview with Dr Rachel David regarding health fund premium applications for 2018](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-health-fund-premium-applications-for-2018/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Melbourne Program: Mornings Date: 9/11/2017 Time: 8:53 AM Compere: Jon Faine Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia JON FAINE: Rachel David joins me. She's from Private Healthcare Australia, the peak body for the health insurers in Australia. Rachel, good morning to you. RACHEL DAVID: Morning, Jon. JON FAINE: You
- [Private Health Needs Whole-of-Sector Commitment to Transparency](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-needs-whole-of-sector-commitment-to-transparency/) - Private Healthcare Australia is urging a whole-of-sector commitment to transparency around issues such as specialist fees to bring the private health sector up to speed with the rest of the economy and consumer expectations. PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the latest APRA quarterly statistics (September 2017) highlighted an increase in out-of-pocket costs for
- [Private Healthcare valued by consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-valued-by-consumers/) - The value of private health insurance has been verified by the Health Care Complaints Commission 2016-17 Annual Report, which found that a patient in a public hospital is six times more likely to complain to the Commission than a patient in a private hospital. This is consistent with IPSOS research, which shows that 80% of
- [Calls from consumer advocates and private health insurers to create an online national directory of surgery and other healthcare costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/calls-from-consumer-advocates-and-private-health-insurers-to-create-an-online-national-directory-of-surgery-and-other-healthcare-costs/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: The World Today Date: 11/12/2017 Time: 12:17 PM Compere: Thomas Oriti Interviewees: Erin Turner (CHOICE), Dr Rachel David (CEO, Private Healthcare Australia), Dr Michael Gannon (President, Australian Medical Association) THOMAS ORITI: If you've been doing your Christmas shopping online, you're probably used to checking multiple sites to get the best
- [Senate Committee Report confirms Federal Government is on the right track with private health reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-committee-report-confirms-federal-government-is-on-the-right-track-with-private-health-reform/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s CEO Dr Rachel David says the recommendations of the Senate Committee Report into the value and affordability of private health insurance and out-pocket-costs, are consistent with the reforms already being implemented under the Federal Government’s private health insurance (PHI) reform agenda. “It is encouraging to see that decision makers across the political
- [PHA Pre-Budget Submission 2018-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-pre-budget-submission-2018-19/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [ABC Radio Perth interview with Dr Rachel David on the PHI reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-perth-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-phi-reform/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Perth Program: Drive Date: 12/10/2017 Time: 5:06 PM Compere: Belinda Varischetti Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia BELINDA VARISCHETTI: As I was just telling you there is a big shakeup in the private health insurance industry. The ABC has learnt the Federal Government is set to unveil the biggest overhaul of
- [PHI Reform delivers value to Australians young and old](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-reform-delivers-value-to-australians-young-and-old/) - Australian health funds have demonstrated their commitment to improving the affordability and value of private health insurance for their members. Health funds have worked together with the Federal Government and private health stakeholders for close to two years to deliver a package of reforms aimed at putting downward pressure on premiums, and making it easier
- [ABC Radio Melbourne interview with Dr Rachel David re shake-up in the PHI industry](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-melbourne-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-re-shake-up-in-the-phi-industry/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Melbourne Program: Breakfast Date: 13/10/2017 Time: 07:17 AM Compere: Red Symons Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia RED SYMONS: It's Friday 13th today, it's got to be unlucky I reckon. I scrolled through the headlines, saw a big shakeup in the industry in regard to private health insurance. I thought, oh
- [4BC interview with Dr Rachel David re PHI reforms](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/4bc-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-re-phi-reforms/) - Transcript Station: 4BC Program: Drive Date: 13/10/2017 Time: 3:09 PM Compere: Ben Davis Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia BEN DAVIS: Look, there's been sweeping reforms to private health insurance. They've been announced today. It's aimed at youngsters – and when I say youngsters: teenagers and those in their early twenties. It's also
- [Statement by Dr Rachel David to the Senate Inquiry into the value and affordability of private health insurance and out-of-pocket medical costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-by-dr-rachel-david-to-the-senate-inquiry-into-the-value-and-affordability-of-private-health-insurance-and-out-of-pocket-medical-costs/) - I am here on behalf of Private Healthcare Australia, the peak representative body for the private health insurance industry. We represent 20 health funds, both for-profit and not-for-profit. This covers over 96 per cent of Australians who hold private health insurance. This inquiry is important because 13.5 million Australians rely on private health insurance and
- [ABC Radio Adelaide interview with Dr Rachel David regarding private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-adelaide-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-regarding-private-health-insurance/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Adelaide Program: Afternoons Date: 1/11/2017 Time: 1:22 PM Compere: Sonya Feldhoff Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia SONYA FELDHOFF: Well, someone who can address Macy's concerns, and perhaps yours as well, is Dr Rachel David. Rachel is the CEO of Private Healthcare Australia. Rachel, good afternoon. RACHEL DAVID: G'day
- [PHA Conference sets reform agenda for 2018](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-conference-sets-reform-agenda-for-2018/) - Private Healthcare Australia will bring together healthcare industry experts from across Australia to discuss the affordability, participation and value of private health insurance at a one day conference on 23 November, 2017. PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the conference coincided with the Government’s major PHI reform announcement, which many speakers had made a
- [ABC Radio Perth interview with Dr Rachel David in response to AMA comments re minimum level of cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-perth-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-in-response-to-ama-comments-re-minimum-level-of-cover/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Perth Program: Mornings Date: 21/08/2017 Time: 8:51AM Compere: Geoff Hutchison Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GEOFF HUTCHISON: Let's speak to Dr Rachel David from Private Healthcare Australia. Good morning to you. RACHEL DAVID: Morning, Geoff. GEOFF HUTCHISON: What do you make of Dr Gannon's comments? He's also said that he believes
- [Radio National AM interview with Dr Rachel David in response to AMA comments re minimum level of cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-am-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-in-response-to-ama-comments-re-minimum-level-of-cover/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: AM Date: 21/08/2017 Time: 7:16 AM Compere: Sabra Lane Interviewees: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia and Dr Michael Gannon, President, Australian Medical Association SABRA LANE It's been a major bugbear for many consumers, and now doctors are claiming the time has come for the Government to act now
- [ABC Radio AM interview with Dr Rachel David re Medibank being cleared in the Federal Court](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-am-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-re-medibank-being-cleared-in-the-federal-court/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Canberra Program: AM Date: 31/08/2017 Time: 8:13 AM Compere: Sabra Lane Interviewees: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia; Rob Sims, Chairman, ACCC; and Leanne Wells, CEO, Consumers Health Forum of Australia SABRA LANE: The health insurer Medibank Private has been cleared of misleading and unconscionable conduct in the Federal
- [PHI Rebate delivers value to health system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-rebate-delivers-value-to-health-system/) - The value of the Private Health Insurance Rebate has been reaffirmed by an independent study into the financing of Australia’s health system. The study, conducted by social policy research firm, Evaluate, concluded that at current settings, a dollar spent by the Government on the PHI Rebate is up to 15% more efficient than a dollar
- [6PR Mornings interview with Dr Rachel David re proposal to discount PHI for younger people](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-perth-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-re-proposal-to-discount-phi-for-younger-people/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 12/09/2017 Time: 10:48 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: Now, at the moment we know that health insurance costs you the same whether you're 18-years-old or whether you're 98-years-old - private health insurance that is. And the idea is that we all pay a
- [2GB Money News interview with Dr Rachel David re health insurance for young people](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-dr-rachel-david-re-health-insurance-for-young-people/) - Transcript Station: 2GB Program: Money News Date: 12/09/2017 Time: 6:25 PM Compere: Steve Price Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia STEVE PRICE: Joining us on the line is Dr Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia. Good to talk to you, Doctor. RACHEL DAVID: G’day Steve. STEVE PRICE: So this would be almost like
- [Government’s Prostheses List Reforms Make PHI Affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/governments-prostheses-list-reforms-make-phi-affordable/) - The Government’s response to the Senate Community Affairs Reference Committee Report Pricing Regulation Associated with the Prostheses List Framework reaffirms its commitment to implement sensible reforms to make private health insurance more affordable for all Australians. Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said by endorsing the recommendations of the inquiry the Government will enable
- [Submission to the Senate Inquiry: Value and Affordability of Private Health Insurance and Out-of-Pocket Medical Costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submission-to-the-senate-inquiry-value-and-affordability-of-private-health-insurance-and-out-of-pocket-medical-costs/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [6PR Mornings Interview with Dr Rachel David on private health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/6pr-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-health-insurance-premiums/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 1/08/2017 Time: 9:54 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: There is a story in The Australian newspaper this morning that the private health insurance industry is on a track where it's dealing with cost blowouts, it's dealing with cost pressures, and
- [Radio National Counterpoint Interview with Dr Rachel David on private patients in public hospitals and 'cost-shifting'](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-counterpoint-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-private-patients-in-public-hospitals/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: Counterpoint Date: 15/05/2017 Time: 4:26 PM Compere: Amanda Vanstone Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia AMANDA VANSTONE: Joining me now to discuss just that is Rachel David, she's the CEO of Private Healthcare Australia. Rachel, welcome to Counterpoint. RACHEL DAVID: Thanks Amanda. AMANDA VANSTONE: Now, you don't mind
- [Radio National PM Interview with Dr Rachel David on Health Insurance Affordability](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-national-pm-interview-on-health-insurance-affordability/) - Transcript Station: Radio National Program: PM Date: 1/08/2017 Time: 5:23 PM Compere: Thomas Oriti Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia REPORTER: Private Healthcare Australia represents private health insurance providers. Its chief executive Rachel David says the industry knows affordability is an issue. RACHEL DAVID: Well look, I think if premium rises occur
- [ABC Radio Canberra PM Interview with Dr Rachel David and Dr Kathryn Flynn on private health insurance fraud](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-radio-canberra-pm-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-and-dr-kathryn-flynn-on-private-health-insurance-fraud/) - Transcript Station: ABC Radio Canberra Program: PM Date: 25/7/2017 Time: 6:37 PM Compere: Matt Wordsworth Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia and Dr Kathryn Flynn, University of Wollongong REPORTER: Dr Flynn studies fraud against health systems, and says it's no surprise it's a problem. DR KATHRYN FLYNN: Well the biggest loophole is
- [State Government ‘cost-shifting’ costing health fund members more than $1 billion per year and growing](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/state-government-cost-shifting-costing-health-fund-members-more-than-1-billion-per-year-and-growing/) - State Governments are increasingly urging public hospitals to raise funds by using Private Health Insurance (PHI) funds as a cash cow, driving up the cost of premiums for all health fund members. Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David, said the Department of Health discussion paper on private patients in public hospitals confirmed industry figures
- [Senate Committee confirms Prostheses List benefits unacceptably high](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-committee-confirms-prostheses-list-benefits-unacceptably-high/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s CEO, Dr Rachel David said the Senate Community Affairs Reference Committee has reaffirmed the industry’s long held position on prostheses pricing reform. “The recommendations of the inquiry in to “Price regulation associated with the Prostheses List Framework” endorse the private health insurance industry’s independent advice and if adopted will deliver significant savings
- [3AW Mornings Interview with Dr Rachel David on the performance of health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-mornings-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-the-performance-of-health-funds/) - Transcript Station: 3AW Program: Mornings Date: 18/5/2017 Time: 8:48 AM Compere: Neil Mitchell Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia NEIL MITCHELL: The health insurance funds. Medical profession says their profits - or several in the medical profession representing the profession, say the profits are obscene, they're going to oversee shareholders, they're having a
- [Report Highlights the Value of Private Health Insurance for Young Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/report-highlights-the-value-of-private-health-insurance-for-young-australians/) - The value of Private Healthcare Insurance, particularly for younger Australians, was highlighted today with the release of Private Healthcare Australia’s Annual Survey Report of High Claims. (Click here to download the PHA Annual High Claims Survey 2016 report) Health funds paid more than $6.4 billion in benefits for individual claims (for which the benefit payment
- [Consumers choose health insurance for security, value and peace of mind](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers-choose-health-insurance-for-security-value-and-peace-of-mind/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s CEO Dr Rachel David said health funds were committed to making it easier for their members to choose and use their health insurance and recognised that complexities had developed in the sector over time. “Private Healthcare Australia is working with the government and stakeholders through the PHI Reform process to improve specific
- [CHF offers no solutions to real consumer concerns](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/chf-offers-no-solutions-to-real-consumer-concerns/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said, “The Consumer Health Forum’s collection of articles on private health insurance released today rehashes the same comments from people who have been critical of the sector for decades, including a number of out of touch commentators and academics. There is nothing new and there are no
- [PHA supports Turnbull Government’s commitment to affordable health care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-supports-turnbull-governments-commitment-to-affordable-health-care/) - Reform of medical device pricing is critical to affordability and sustainability of Australian health system. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said the Coalition Government’s ongoing commitment to reform medical device pricing would make health insurance more accessible and affordable for all Australians. “Today’s announcement that the Prostheses List Advisory Committee (PLAC), will
- [Budget addresses affordability of health care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/budget-addresses-affordability-of-health-care/) - The Turnbull Government’s 2017-18 PHI Budget measures acknowledge the high value the community places on health care and recognises the importance of the private health insurance rebate. The reintroduction of Medicare Benefits Schedule indexation and the retention of the PHI rebate will improve healthcare affordability for all Australians. “The phased restoration of MBS indexation will
- [ABC News 24 Interview with Dr Rachel David discussing Private Health Insurance Access](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-24-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-discussing-private-health-insurance-access/) - Transcript Station: ABC News 24 Program: ABC News Date: 10/02/2017 Time: 1:40 PM Compere: Newsreader Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia NEWSREADER: For more on this now, Dr Rachel David is the chief executive of Private Health Care Australia and she joins me now in the studio. Dr David, thank you for your
- [PHI Members Value the Right to Choose When and Where They Have Medical Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-members-value-the-right-to-choose-when-and-where-they-have-medical-care/) - Statements by the Australian Greens today about the Private Health Insurance Industry are factually incorrect. Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David said consumer complaints about private health insurance have dropped significantly, the PHI rebate is keeping pressure off public hospitals, and Australians deeply value their private health cover. Far from a ‘spectacular failure of
- [How State Governments are encouraging public hospitals to bill private health insurers for their members’ treatment](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2gb-mornings-interview-with-rachel-david-ceo-private-healthcare-australia-discussing-how-state-governments-are-encouraging-public-hospitals-to-bill-private-health-insurers-for-their-members/) - Transcript Station: 2GB Program: Mornings Date: 4/3/2017 Time: 11:07 AM Compere: Luke Grant Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LUKE GRANT: Now, it’s been revealed today - what do you make of this? It’s been revealed today state governments are encouraging public hospitals to bill private health insurers for their members’ treatment. Now
- [Health insurers stepping up to end government veto power over insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-insurers-stepping-up-to-end-government-veto-power-over-insurance-premiums/) - Transcript Station: 6PR Program: Mornings Date: 9/3/2017 Time: 11:10 AM Compere: Gareth Parker Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GARETH PARKER: Well, private health insurance premiums and how much you pay for your private health insurance was in the news recently. We covered it on the program, because we're only a few weeks
- [We need to be careful about what we're calling a "junk" policy](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-dr-rachel-david-on-so-called-junk-policies/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 17/03/2017 Time: 10:11 AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: Let's talk with the CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David. Rachel, thank you for joining us today. RACHEL DAVID: Pleasure, Leon. LEON BYNER: In your opinion, for those people who
- [PHA Pre-Budget Submission 2017-18](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-pre-budget-submission-2017-18/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Private Patients in Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-patients-in-public-hospitals-cost-shifting/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 3/4/2017 Time: 11:06 AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: When you hear about misleading and deceptive conduct you kind of think in terms of the ACCC taking someone to court for telling you one thing when in fact the one thing
- [Experienced Chair to lead PHA Board](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/experienced-chair-to-lead-pha-board/) - Private Healthcare Australia has appointed industry expert and experienced CEO, Mr Rob Bransby as Chair of the PHA Board. PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the industry was extremely fortunate to retain Mr Bransby’s skills and experience following his retirement from his long term position as Managing Director of WA’s largest health fund, HBF.
- [3AW Mornings Interview with Rachel David, CEO Private Healthcare Australia discussing Private Healthcare Fee Gaps](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-rachel-david-ceo-private-healthcare-australia-discussing-private-healthcare-fee-gaps/) - Transcript Station: 3AW Program: MORNINGS Date: 12/12/2016 Time: 11:08 AM Compere: Tony Jones Interviewees: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia TONY JONES: I just want to change tack, because pretty keen to hear from people with private health insurance who've had surgery. So if you've had surgery recently with private health insurance give us
- [General Treatment benefits up by 3.7% in past 12 months](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/general-treatment-benefits-up-by-3-7-in-past-12-months/) - The latest Private Health Insurance statistics released by the APRA (November 2016) show an increase in benefits paid on behalf of fund members over the past twelve months, in both hospital and general treatment categories. A report on the PHI industry and benefit payments in News Ltd papers today is incorrect. Private Healthcare Australia CEO,
- [Private health funds argue for premiums to rise](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-funds-argue-for-premiums-to-rise/) - Transcript Station: ABC RADIO CANBERRA Program: EARLY AM Date: 16/01/2017 Time: 6:05 AM Compere: Kim Landers Interviewees: Leanne Wells, Consumers Health Forum of Australia; Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia KIM LANDERS: Good morning. This is AM, I'm Kim Landers. The Prime Minister will soon announce his pick for a new Health Minister
- [Health Funds Committed to Affordable Premiums as lowest increase in a decade delivered](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-committed-to-affordable-premiums-as-lowest-increase-in-a-decade-delivered/) - Australian Health Funds remain fully committed to working with the Coalition Government to improve the sustainability and affordability of the private health sector and to continue to reduce upward pressure on premiums. CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David, said today’s premium announcement, an average of 4.84%, the lowest increase in a decade, reflected
- [PHI Delivering Record Benefits and Record Value](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-delivering-record-benefits-and-record-value/) - APRA’s latest private health insurance statistics validate reports that Health Funds have been paying record benefits on behalf of their members in spite of increasing health costs. “The December 2016 quarterly statistics released by APRA today reveal that total private health insurance benefits paid by funds over twelve months were up 5.1% on the previous
- [PHI Complaints Down by 29 per cent](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-complaints-down-by-29-per-cent/) - The latest statistics from the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman show a significant drop in the number of consumer complaints regarding PHI. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said this supported recent research showing that 84 per cent of health fund members value their PHI because it gives them security and confidence they can
- [3AW Mornings Interview with Rachel David, CEO Private Healthcare Australia discussing Private Healthcare Costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/12825-2/) - Transcript Station: 3AW Program: Mornings Date: 10/02/2017 Time: 10:08 AM Compere: Neil Mitchell Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia NEIL MITCHELL: Simple terms, what do you pay for your health insurance, what does it cost a year, and is it worth it? I guess the other less simple question is, can you afford
- [Health Funds Committed to Affordable Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-committed-to-affordable-premiums/) - APRA’s 2015-16 Private Health Insurance Annual Report demonstrates that Health Funds are operating successfully and efficiently and the industry is in good shape. “This is crucial for the sustainability of Australia’s health system as more than 13.5 million people have private health insurance, half of them have an annual income of less than $50,000 and
- [Statement from Dr Rachel David – Response to Grattan Institute Report Age of Entitlement](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-from-dr-rachel-david-response-to-grattan-institute-report-age-of-entitlement/) - The private health insurance rebate assists older Australians to manage their healthcare and helps keep pressure off the public hospital system. The Grattan Institute Report, Age of Entitlement, fails to consider the impact on our public health system of "reducing the private health insurance rebate so that seniors get the same rebate as younger Australians."
- [RACGP Cash Grab Loses Credibility Due to Wrong Figures and Dodgy Accounting](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/racgp-cash-grab-loses-credibility-due-to-wrong-figures-and-dodgy-accounting/) - The claim by Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) President Dr Bastian Seidel, that the rebate on private health insurance premiums for low and middle income earners is ‘generously indexed way above the Consumer Price Index (CPI)’, is completely wrong, and reflects a worrying level of ignorance about the Federal Health Budget. The RACGP
- [Australians with private health insurance win from closure of skin lesion loophole](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-with-private-health-insurance-win-from-closure-of-skin-lesion-loophole/) - The private health insurance industry has applauded the Health Minister for consulting and then acting quickly to close a loophole allowing double dipping for skin lesion treatments. Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Rachel David, said consolidating the number of Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items used to describe different types of skin procedures provides clarity while
- [Tackling rising health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/radio-2ue-17102016-phi-premiums/) - Dr Rachel David is the CEO of Private Health Care Australia and joined Luke Bona and Kayley Harris to address some of the concerns FiftyUp Club members have over rapidly rising private health insurance premiums. Listen Now:
- [Minister's Move To Correct Unfair Medical Device Pricing Will Benefit Private Health Consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ministers-move-to-correct-unfair-medical-device-pricing-will-benefit-private-health-consumers/) - The Federal Government’s clear commitment to correcting regulation fixing medical device prices for Australian private patients at the highest levels in the world, is a major step towards securing the sustainability of private health in Australia. This is genuine reform and will deliver real short-term benefits to health fund members, and therefore the whole Australian
- [Statement from Dr Rachel David re ACCC report on PHI](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-from-dr-rachel-david-re-accc-report-on-phi/) - PHA health funds have already made a considerable investment in developing policy to improve the transparency of private health insurance products for consumers, and maintain an affordable private health system. In our dialogue with the Australian Government and its agencies during the PHI Review process, we have acknowledged the number and complexity of products in
- [Health Funds delivering benefits for consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-delivering-benefits-for-consumers/) - The CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David, said Australian Health Funds are committed to keeping private health insurance sustainable and premiums affordable for members. The fact that funds are operating as successful businesses demonstrates that the future of the industry looks healthy and secure. “Unfortunately claims todays from the Consumer Health Forum regarding
- [Brendan Trembath Reports on the High Cost of Medical Devices in Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/brendan-trembath-reports-on-the-high-cost-of-medical-devices-in-australia/) - Transcript Station: 666 ABC Canberra Program: AM Date: 22nd August 2016 Time: 8:12 AM Compere: Michael Brissenden Interviewees: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia; Dr Michael Gannon, President, Australian Medical Association MICHAEL BRISSENDEN: Australia's private health insurance industry has blamed rising health premiums on the high cost of devices such as pace makers and
- [Interview with Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David about the cost of common medical devices](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-private-healthcare-australia-ceo-dr-rachel-david-about-the-cost-of-common-medical-devices/) - Transcript Station: 720 ABC PERTH Program: MORNINGS Date: 22nd August 2016 Time: 10:07 AM Compere: Geoff Hutchison Interviewees: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia GEOFF HUTCHISON: I mentioned that one of the biggest burdens to the hip pocket is private health insurance. In recent years health insurers have increased the cost of private cover
- [Interview with Rachel David, Head, Private Healthcare Australia about the cost of private health care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-rachel-david-head-private-healthcare-australia-about-the-cost-of-private-health-care/) - Transcript Station: 2UE Program: LUNCHTIME LOWDOWN Date: 22/08/2016 Time: 3:32 PM Compere: Tim Webster Interviewees: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia TIM WEBSTER: Now, this has been concerning me deeply for some time, the general- and I mean general, cost of health in this country but we get a bit specific here, and we
- [PHA/AHSA Joint Submission to the Australian Consortium for Classification Development (ACCD) on the development of AR-DRG version 9.0 (public consultation)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phaahsa-joint-submission-to-the-australian-consortium-for-classification-development-accd-on-the-development-of-ar-drg-version-9-0-public-consultation/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Minister’s commitment to the Review of the Medicare Benefits Schedule means Australia’s  world-class health system will be around to benefit our children](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ministers-commitment-to-the-review-of-the-medicare-benefits-schedule-means-australias-world-class-health-system-will-be-around-to-benefit-our-children/) - Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rachel David, says the Government’s MBS Taskforce’s interim report is a major step towards ensuring Medicare funding is directed to interventions that are known to benefit health consumers, rather than low-value, futile or non-clinically relevant care. “Health funds are committed to ensuring members are able to access quality
- [Data Access Critical to Healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/data-access-critical-to-healthcare/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rachel David, says ongoing access to healthcare data is essential to improve health outcomes for Australian consumers. “The recent withdrawal of a particular dataset from the data.gov.au website following decrypting concerns raised by researchers, should not derail the process of providing high-value datasets to researchers and stakeholders,” said
- [Premium Affordability should be a priority for Incoming Government](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/premium-affordability-should-be-a-priority-for-incoming-government/) - The next Australian Government should commit to working with health funds to improve the sustainability and affordability of the private health sector and should take immediate steps to reduce pressure on premiums. Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rachel David, said policies such as freezing the indexation of the PHI Rebate until 2026, announced
- [Private Healthcare Australia Supports Government Commitment to PHI Sustainability](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-australia-supports-government-commitment-to-phi-sustainability/) - Australia’s health funds have welcomed the Coalition Government’s commitment to reform medical device pricing and make health insurance more accessible and affordable for Australians. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said the Coalition’s plan supported health funds to deliver transparency and comparability across the industry to make it easier for Australians to choose
- [2UE Afternoon (Weekend) - New System of Ranking Private Health Insurance Policies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2ue-afternoon-weekend-new-system-of-ranking-private-health-insurance-policies/) - Transcript Station: 2UE Program: Afternoon (Weekend) Date: 12th June 2016 Time: 12:25 PM Compere: Clinton Maynard Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia CLINTON MAYNARD: We'll talk to Rachel David, who's from the Private Healthcare Australia organisation. Dr David, thanks for your time. RACHEL DAVID: Oh, thank you very much. CLINTON MAYNARD: This seems
- [2UE Mornings Interview in response to SMH 23/6/16 article: "Insurance ombudsman ‘a toothless tiger’](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2ue-mornings-insurance-ombudsman-a-toothless-tiger/) - Transcript Station: 2UE Program: Mornings Date: 23rd June 2016 Time: 10:31 AM Compere: Stuart Bocking Interview with Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia STUART BOCKING: Now we're told that some of the Medibank members who sought help from the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman about some of the shock hospital bills- this was after that
- [Private Healthcare Australia says Labor must come clean on complex rebate changes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-australia-says-labor-must-come-clean-on-complex-rebate-changes/) - “Labor’s latest plan to remove the private health insurance rebate from policies covering only public hospital treatment will deliver marginal savings and create confusion and panic for some consumers,” said PHA Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David. “Labor must state clearly when it intends to introduce this policy as any retrospective change would mean some policy
- [Consumers will win from Whitecoat joint venture](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers-will-win-from-whitecoat-joint-venture/) - “Australian health funds are taking a significant step towards improving the healthcare experiences of consumers through the launch of the expanded Whitecoat initiative,” PHA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rachel David said today. “The expanded Whitecoat highlights how the private health insurance industry and Health Minister Sussan Ley are absolutely on the same page on improving
- [Greens Health Policy a Disaster for Public Health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/greens-health-policy-a-disaster-for-public-health/) - The Greens plan to abolish the Private Health Insurance Rebate will have a disastrous impact on public hospitals and set health policy development back decades. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said the Green’s ideological attack on the private health sector would have a negative impact on all Australians needing healthcare, both public
- [Submission to Department of Human Services regarding Private Health Insurance Rebate Registration](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submission-to-department-of-human-services-regarding-private-health-insurance-rebate-registration/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Survey shows Value of Health Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/survey-shows-value-of-health-cover/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Annual Survey of High Claims has highlighted the value of health insurance, particularly for younger Australians, with funds paying out more than $6 billion in benefits for individual claims over $10,000 in 2015. PHA CEO Dr Rachel David said the report found an increase of 21% in what are known as “high
- [Accessible and Affordable Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/accessible-and-affordable-health-insurance/) - Private Healthcare Australia is committed to working with the incoming Federal Government and industry stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and affordable health insurance system on behalf of all Australians. Improved transparency, accountability and competitiveness across the whole private health supply chain is critical to the sustainability of the sector. “PHA health funds have agreed to
- [2UE Interview with Dr Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia about why premiums are continuing to rise](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2ue-interview-290316/) - Transcript Station: 2UE Program: Drive Date: 29th March 2016 Time: 4:23 PM Compere: Bill Woods Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia BILL WOODS: They say, and this is an estimate from surveys apparently, more than half a million people are going to dump private health cover this week, when most premiums are rising at
- [Federal Government must act now to ensure sustainability of healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sustainability-of-health-care/) - Private Health sector costs are rising faster than premiums; Premium increases of 5.59% due to take place tomorrow are the lowest in 4 years and 15% lower than State Government health cost increases; Premium increases at this level are unsustainable in the long run and funds are unable to address obvious rorts in the system
- [891 ABC Adelaide Interview with Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia, discussing healthcare gap payments](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/891-abc-adelaide-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-ceo-private-healthcare-australia-discussing-healthcare-gap-payments/) - Transcript Station: 891 ABC Adelaide Program: Drive Date: 31st March 2016 Time: 5:18 PM Compere: Ian Henschke Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia IAN HENSCHKE: Let's go now to Dr Rachel David, who is the chief executive of Private Healthcare Australia. Rachel, good to... RACHEL DAVID: [Interrupts] Yes, hello. IAN HENSCHKE: Hello, good
- [Submission to ACCC Senate report 2014-15](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submission-accc-senate-report-2014-15/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [PHA Budget 2016 Media Statement](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/sustainable-and-affordable-private-healthcare/) - Sustainable and Affordable Private Healthcare Australia’s health funds have welcomed the Government’s commitment to improving the sustainability and affordability of the private healthcare sector, but warn the Government should take immediate steps to reduce pressure on premiums. Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rachel David, welcomed the Budget announcement to establish a high level
- [Channel 7 News  - New figures show there's been a dramatic spike in the level of restrictions on hospital cover for private health customers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/channel-7-news-may18/) - Transcript Station: Channel 7 Program: Seven News QLD at 4pm Date: 18th May 2016 Time: 4:33 PM Compere: Kendall Gilding Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia NEWSREADER:: New figures show there's been a dramatic spike in the level of restrictions on hospital cover for private health customers. But health insurers argue it's a
- [PHI Rebate Keeps Pressure off Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-rebate-keeps-pressure-off-public-hospitals-2-2/) - The Private Health Insurance Rebate helps to keep premiums affordable, encourages Australians to take out private health cover and eases pressure on the public hospital system, Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said today. “Each year in its pre-budget submission, the Australian Council of Social Services calls for an end to the Private
- [Statement from PHA Chief Executive Dr Rachel David on Private Health Fund Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-from-pha-chief-executive-dr-rachel-david-re-private-health-fund-premiums/) - Private Health Funds take the issue of premium increases very seriously, and do not take the decision to increase premiums lightly. The affordability of premiums for members is critical for the ongoing viability of private health. It is very important health funds hold sufficient funds to pay out on claims made by members, now and
- [Health Funds Increase Efficiency](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-funds-increase-efficiency/) - Health Funds have become increasingly efficient with both management expense ratios and net margins reducing significantly in recent years. The Private Health Insurance Industry’s MER has been dropping progressively since 2008 from 10.5% to 8.5% in 2014. Similarly, the Industry’s net margin has dropped from 5.6% in 2007 to 4.1% in 2014. Private Healthcare Australia
- [Private Health Funds Keep Premiums Affordable](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-funds-keep-premiums-affordable/) - The Government’s announcement that the average premium increase for Private Health Insurance Funds will be 5.59%, the lowest increase in four years, demonstrates the industry’s commitment to keeping premiums affordable for its members. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David, said “funds take the issue of premium increases very seriously and the industry has
- [720 ABC Perth Interview with Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Rachel David with regards to the increase in private health insurance premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/10052/) - Transcript Station: 720 ABC Perth Program: Mornings Date: 3rd March 2016 Time: 8:51 AM Compere: Geoff Hutchison Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia JEFF HUTCHINSON: Now Private Healthcare Australia is that organisation, the umbrella organisation of the insurers, and when we're talking about that five to six per cent increase in premiums from
- [3AW Interview with Dr Rachel David, Private Healthcare Australia CEO about private health fund coverage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-dr-rachel-david-private-healthcare-australia-ceo-about-private-health-fund-coverage/) - Transcript Station: 3AW Program: Mornings Date: 2nd March 2016 Time: 10:08 AM Compere: Neil Mitchell Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia NEIL MITCHELL: Okay let's have a look at your private health funds, your private health cover. They're going up, the bill's going up as much $200 a year. I think it's
- [891 ABC Adelaide Interview with Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/891-abc-adelaide-interview-with-dr-rachel-david-ceo-private-healthcare-australia/) - Transcript Station: 891 ABC Adelaide Program: Mornings Date: 2nd March 2016 Time: 9:07 AM Compere: Ali Clarke Interviewee: Dr Rachel David, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia ALI CLARKE: It is expected to be confirmed that health fund premiums will rise by another 5.59 per cent on average as of next month. To explain this rise is
- [PHI: Value and Choice for Members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-value-and-choice-for-members/) - Private Health Insurance provides value and choice for its members, keeps the pressure off the public hospital system and makes a major contribution to Australia’s health system. “The Private Health Insurance Rebate helps keep premiums affordable for consumers and is a crucial component in balancing Australia’s public and private health systems,” said Private Healthcare Australia
- [Prostheses Pricing Needs Reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/prostheses-pricing-needs-reform/) - The Private Health Insurance Industry has renewed calls for the Australian Government to reform prostheses pricing rules. The key plank of Private Healthcare Australia’s submission to the Government’s PHI Review focuses on reforming prostheses pricing so that Australians pay no more than international consumers. Private Health Australia’s Acting CEO, Steven Fanner, said the reforms would
- [Submission to the Federal Government's PHI Review: Private Health Insurance Consultations 2015-16](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-consultations-2015-16/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Submission to APRA on Private Health Insurance Changes : PHIAC to APRA transition](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-changes-phiac-to-apra-transition/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Submission to the Treasury: PHI Prudential Supervision Bill 2015 (Exposure Draft Bill)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submission-to-the-treasury-phi-prudential-supervision-bill-2015-exposure-draft/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Private patients paying too much for medical implants and surgical supplies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-patients-paying-too-much-for-medical-implants-and-surgical-supplies/) - The Private Health Insurance Industry welcomes the Government’s plan to reform prostheses pricing in Australia as an important step towards containing spiralling health costs, and keeping health insurance premiums affordable. PHA Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said reforming the Federal Government scheme, which establishes benefits for medical devices, will significantly reduce upward pressure on private
- [Media Statement from PHA President, Rob Bransby](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media-statement-from-pha-president-rob-bransby/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, will retire from the position at the end of October, after ten years representing the Private Health Insurance Industry at the highest levels of Government and across the Australian health sector. The President of Private Healthcare Australia Chair, Rob Bransby, thanked Dr Armitage for his outstanding
- ['No more excuses' - PHA supports efforts by health insurers to minimise preventable errors in hospital care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/no-more-excuses/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) strongly supports moves by private health insurers to ensure patients receive better quality care by minimising preventable hospital errors. PHA CEO Dr Michael Armitage said health costs are rising, the population is ageing and there is an increasing demand for the best available health services. “Keeping health costs under control requires
- [PHA Welcomes Public Consultation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-welcomes-public-consultation/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, says the Industry welcomes the Government’s announcement to undertake public consultation on Private Health Insurance, and the opportunity to improve the value of PHI to the consumer. “If the Government approaches the consultation with an open mind it will allow the industry once and for all
- [PHA calls for Inquiry into Wastage in Healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-calls-for-inquiry-into-wastage-in-healthcare/) - “Exposing and stopping wastage in the Australian health system would deliver savings to Government and lead to improved healthcare without the need to raise taxes,” according to Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Michael Armitage. Dr Armitage said the Council of Australian Governments should explore opportunities to fund improved health services by reducing wastage in the
- [High Claims top $5 billion in 2014](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-claims-top-5-billion-in-2014/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s Annual Survey of High Claims in 2014 found that private health funds paid 247,515 claims where the benefit payment for the episode of care was more than $10,000. This is an increase in the number of high claims on the previous reporting year of 5.4% with benefits paid exceeding $5.1 billion. This
- [ABC News Breakfast Interview with Private Healthcare Australia CEO Michael Armitage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interview-with-private-healthcare-australia-ceo-michael-armitage/) - Interview with Private Healthcare Australia CEO Michael Armitage Transcript Station: ABC News 24 Program: ABC News Breakfast Date: 30th March 2015 Time: 7:34 AM Compere: Michael Rowland, Virginia Trioli and Paul Kennedy Interviewee: Michael Armitage, Private Healthcare Australia CEO MICHAEL ROWLAND: Now, millions of Australians with private health cover will be slug with a
- [Private Healthcare Australia calls for Prostheses Pricing Reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-australia-calls-for-prostheses-pricing-reform/) - Private Healthcare Australia has renewed calls for the Australian Government to reform prostheses pricing rules following a Federal Court action launched by a United States medical implant manufacturer. PHA Chief Executive Dr Michael Armitage said the Australian Government would save $2.6 billion between now and 2020 by reforming prostheses pricing so that Australians paid no
- [Submission to the Senate Economics Legislation Committee: Inquiry into PHI Prudential Supervision Bill 2015](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/inquiry-into-phi-prudential-supervision-bill-2015/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Submission to the Senate Standing Committees on Community Affairs: Inquiry into the Private Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Base Premium) Bill 2013](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/inquiry-into-the-private-health-insurance-legislation-amendment-base-premium-bill-2013/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Submission to IHPA: Development of the Australian Mental Health Care Classification – Public Consultation Paper 1](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/development-of-the-australian-mental-health-care-classification-public-consultation-paper-1/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Submission to the Treasury: PHI Prudential Supervision Bill 2015](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-changes/) - Click here to download and view the submission.
- [Privately Insured Australians Want Quality and Safety](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/privately-insured-australians-want-quality-and-safety/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Michael Armitage said Private Health Funds have a responsibility to their members to demand improved quality and safety measures in healthcare and privately insured Australians want their Fund to advocate on their behalf. Health costs are rising, the population is aging and there is an increasing demand for the best
- [Privately Insured Australians React to Means-testing](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/privately-insured-australians-react-to-means-testing/) - More than two million private health insurance policies have been downgraded or discontinued since February 2012 when legislation to means-test the 30% Rebate was passed by Parliament. Industry data shows that of the 2,295,794 million policies which have been downgraded or discontinued, 877,176 policies have been downgraded, 1,083,504 hospital policies have been discontinued, and 335,114
- [Private Health Funds to Inject $18 billion into Healthcare](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-funds-to-inject-18-billion-into-healthcare/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1.4 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2014-15, bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $18 billion. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Michael Armitage said any increase in private health insurance premiums would reflect the increasing cost of health care in
- [Premiums Reflect Increase Health Costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/premiums-reflect-increase-health-costs/) - The annual average premium increase of 6.18% announced by the Government is necessary to ensure Private Health Funds can continue to provide members with access to quality medical treatment by covering the increasing costs of health care services. Private Health Funds will spend more than $18 billion on private health treatments in 2014-15 and a
- [Increase in Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/increase-in-private-health-insurance/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Mornings Date: 1st April 2014 Time: 11:07AM Compere: Leon Byner Interviewee: Dr Michael Armitage, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia LEON BYNER: Well, one of the most important contingencies for all of us is good health and sometimes, you can never predict that that may not be the case, you can have an
- [Statement on Commission of Audit Report – Dr Michael Armitage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-on-commission-of-audit-report-dr-michael-armitage/) - “The Audit Commission “health section” can be described as a Curate’s Egg” “The report includes some good thoughts and interesting concepts but there is a lack of detail and disappointing inconsistencies in some areas. A number of the suggestions are in line with Private Health Insurance industry recommendations to Governments over a number of years.
- [ABC News Radio Interview with Dr Michael Armitage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/abc-news-radio-interview-with-dr-michael-armitage/) - Interview With Dr Michael Armitage, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia On People Who Make Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices By Smoking Or Being Overweight Could Pay Higher Health Insurance Premiums Under Proposals Put To The Federal Government By The Commission Of Audit Transcript Station: ABC News Radio Program: Mornings Date: 5th May 2014 Time: 9:45AM Compere: Glen Bartholomew
- [3AW Drive Interview with Dr Michael Armitage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/3aw-drive-interview-with-dr-michael-armitage/) - CEO of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Michael Armitage responds to a comment from CEO of NIB Health Insurance Mark Fitzgibbon that health insurers should be able to charge higher premiums for people who make poor lifestyle choices Transcript Station: 3AW Program: Drive Date: 5th May 2014 Time: 4:10PM Compere: Tom Elliott Interviewee: Dr Michael
- [Prostheses Pricing Reform Saves $2.6 billion by 2020](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/prostheses-pricing-reform-saves-2-6-billion-by-2020/) - Private Healthcare Australia estimates the Australian Government would save $2.6 billion between now and 2020 by reforming prostheses pricing so that Australians paid no more than international consumers. PHA Chief Executive Dr Michael Armitage said legislated benefits payable for prostheses in Australia were up to five times higher than the prices paid for the same
- [Private Health Insurance Industry Submission on PCEHR Legislation Paper](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-industry-submission-on-pcehr-legislation-paper/) - The Australian Government is establishing electronic health records with the aim of delivering benefits for patients and clinicians across Australia. The personally controlled electronic health record (PCEHR) system is proposed to enable better access to important health information currently held in dispersed records around the country. It will mean that patients will no longer need
- [Same Treatment – Different Price](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/same-treatment-different-price/) - Privately insured Australians should ask for details of all medical charges before proceeding with elective surgery. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Michael Armitage said Informed Financial Consent (whereby patients receive information on any gap payments) was crucial for patients to manage their health care costs. Dr Armitage said data collected by PHA showed a
- [“Never Events” Policy Leads to Better Quality & Safety](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/never-events-policy-leads-to-better-quality-safety/) - An agreement between a private hospital group and major health fund to forgo payments for so called “never events” is a major step towards improving health outcomes for all Australians. The CEO of the Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body, Dr Michael Armitage says Private Healthcare Australia has been advocating non-payment for “never events” for
- [Modest premium increase a good outcome for fund members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/modest-premium-increase-a-good-outcome-for-fund-members/) - Private health funds are forecast to inject an additional $1.15 billion into Australia's health care system in 2013-14, bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $16.5 billion. Health Minister Peter Dutton today announced an average premium increase of 6.2 per cent reflecting the increasing cost of health care in Australia. More than
- [Use of Transvaginal Mesh Should Be Banned](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/use-of-transvaginal-mesh-should-be-banned/) - Private Healthcare Australia has called for the immediate removal of Transvaginal Mesh from the Australian Prostheses List and the ARTG (Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods). PHA Chief Executive Dr Michael Armitage said media surrounding the current class action by Australian women against a major medical devices company, highlighted the horrendous impact the use of the
- [Take Action to Save Your Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/take-action-to-save-your-rebate-2/) - Transcript Station: 5AA Program: Breakfast Date: 12th June 2013 Time: 7:07AM Compere: Alex Ward and Jane Reilly Interviewee: Dr Michael Armitage, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia ALEX WARD: Michael, with Private Healthcare Australia, do you have concerns about the change, it's law as I understand it, to the private health insurance rebate that people with that
- [AHIA's Position Paper on Reinsurance High Cost Claims](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahias-position-paper-on-reinsurance-high-cost-claims/) - Background AHIA engaged KPMG to work with the AHIA Reinsurance Steering Group to develop an industry agreed system of reinsurance for Private Health Insurance. The Steering group consisted of AHIA and HIRMAA members. The industry agreed AHIA model was presented to the Minister for Health in a joint letter from AHIA & HIRMAA on 18
- [AHIA's Position Paper on Out of Hospital Gate Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahias-position-paper-on-out-of-hospital-gate-care/) - Preamble The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) understands there is a strong possibility that the Federal Government will legislate to enable health funds to purchase services outside the current hospital environment to provide members with greater healthcare options. Such services can be referred to as “out of hospital gate care” services. These services can substitute
- [AHIA's Position Paper on Informed Financial Consent (IFC)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahias-position-paper-on-informed-financial-consentifc/) - OPTIONS TO IMPROVE THE PROVISION OF INFORMED FINANCIAL CONSENT BY MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS 1. Current Status of Informed Financial Consent The lack of Informed Financial Consent (IFC)1 provided to health fund contributors by medical practitioners continues to be a significant problem in Australia. While this is acknowledged as an issue for all consumers, those with private
- [Increase in health premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/increase-in-health-premiums/) - Transcript - produced by Media Monitors Station: 3AW Program: DRIVE Compere: TOM ELLIOTT Item: CEO of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Michael Armitage explains that the 5.6% increase in health premiums helps cover the increase in several healthcare costs which far exceed this amount. Dr Armitage says that there are certain doctors and hospitals in the
- [Importance of Keeping Your General Treatment Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/importance-of-keeping-your-general-treatment-cover/) - Transcript 6PR Date: 07/05/2012 Afternoons Time: 12:49 PM Tony McManus Summary ID: W00048576025 Doctor Michael Armitage, chief executive, Private Healthcare Australia says they are seeing that people regard the whole package as important, with people having both hospital and general cover. Interviewees: Doctor Michael Armitage, Chief Executive, Private Healthcare Australia TONY MCMANUS: Late last week
- [Pre-Payment of premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pre-payment-of-premiums/) - Transcript - produced by Media Monitors Station: ABC 666 CANBERRA Program: DRIVE Compere: LOUISE MAHER Item: Presenter Louise Maher interviews Dr Michael Armitage, CEO, Private Healthcare Australia about the impact of new rules regarding the operation of Medicare. LOUISE MAHER: The end of the financial year is a busy time for many people, and this
- [PHA Welcomes Prostheses Changes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha-welcomes-prostheses-changes-2/) - Private Healthcare Australia supports the recent Budget announcement to remove hips and joints with unacceptably high revision rates from the Prostheses List. PHA Chief Executive Dr Michael Armitage has long advocated for improved prostheses listing arrangements, on behalf of more than 12 million privately insured Australians. “Private Health Funds want the best possible care for
- [Annual High Claims Survey Shows Value of Keeping Private Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/annual-high-claims-survey-shows-value-of-keeping-private-cover-2/) - 7 May 2012 The Private Healthcare Australia Annual High Claims Survey Report analyses the nature and magnitude of high claims met by Health Funds over the past 12 months and is collated using survey data from 32 Australian health funds which in total represent 98.8% of the private health insurance industry. The participating funds returned
- [Dr Michael Armitage talks to 4BC re Federal Government plan to wipe out part of Private Health Insurance Subsidy](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-michael-armitage-talks-to-4bc-re-federal-government-plan-to-wipe-out-part-of-private-health-insurance-subsidy/) - Transcript Station: 4BC Date: 22/08/2011 Program: Drive Time: 04:23 PM Compere: Gary Hardgrave Summary ID: W00045123762 Item: Michael Armitage, the Chief Executive of the Australian Health Insurance Association, says a report has shown that the Federal Government's new plan to wipe out part of the subsidy for private health insurance will increase the average waiting
- [Dr Michael Armitage talks to 2UE Re Government plans to remove Private Health Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-michael-armitage-talks-to-2ue-regarding-government-plans-to-remove-private-health-rebate/) - Transcript Station: 2UE Date: 16/08/2011 Program: Afternoons Time: 01:10 PM Compere: Michael Smith Summary ID: S00045039113 Item: Michael Armitage of the Australian Health Insurance Association talks about the Federal Government's plans to remove the private health rebate.Interviewees: Michael Armitage, Australian Health Insurance Association MICHAEL SMITH: Michael Armitage is the CEO of the Australian Health
- [Dr Armitage talks to 2UE to discuss  the flawed figures on which the Government has based its decision to Means Test the Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/dr-armitage-talks-to-2ue-to-discuss-the-flawed-figures-on-which-the-government-has-based-its-decision-to-means-test-the-rebate-2/) - TranscriptStation: 2UE , Date: 10/02/2012 , Program: Breakfast, Time: 07:21 AM Compere: Jason Morrison Item: Dr Armitage says the figures on which the Government has based its decision to means test the health insurance rebate are flawed. Interviewees: Tanya Plibersek, Federal Minister for Health (excerpt); Dr Michael Armitage, CEO, Private Health Association JASON MORRISON: I'll
- [Hands off Private Health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/hands-off-private-health-2/) - Private Healthcare Australia urges the Rudd Government to leave Private Health Insurance alone as the Government looks to make further spending cuts this week to counter its increasing Budget deficit. PHA Chief Executive, Dr Michael Armitage, said the Government had targeted Private Health Insurance in recent years with changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge, the
- [Private Health Insurance Policies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-policies/) - Today’s Treasurers’ Debate has given 12.5 million Australians an insight into the major political parties’ plans for the Private Health Insurance Rebate. Private Healthcare Australia CEO, Dr Michael Armitage, said many privately insured Australians were not wealthy and for them, the Rebate is the only form of Government assistance they receive. “Of the 12.5 million
- [Rebate Indexation Increases Public Health Sector Costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/rebate-indexation-increases-public-health-sector-costs-2/) - Government legislation to index the Private Health Insurance Rebate to the CPI will result in a decline in membership, higher premiums and an immediate in increase in public hospital pressure and costs. As part of its submission to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee into the Private Health Insurance Legislation Amendments (Base Premium) Bill 2013,
- [Private Health Insurance injects $15 billion into the Australian Health System](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-injects-15-billion-into-the-australian-health-system-2/) - Private Health Insurance has paid $15 billion in benefits on behalf of privately insured Australians in the 12 months to March 2013. Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Michael Armitage said claims by Choice that PHI only paid 8% of health expenditure in Australia were misleading. “The fact is that Private Health Funds are restricted
- [Private Health Insurance now more expensive for 12.5 million Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-now-more-expensive-2/) - 12.5 million Australians will pay more for their private health cover as a result of Government legislation which passed through the House of Representatives late last night. Changes to the indexation of the Rebate on Private Health Insurance and the removal of the Rebate from the Lifetime Health Cover component of a premium will both
- [Means testing will Hurt Health Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/means-testing-will-hurt-health-care-2/) - The growth in the Private Health Insurance sector should send a signal to Government that Private Health Insurance is popular in the electorate; that the system is working; and the Government should maintain the existing Rebate and other incentives to keep Australia’s health system in balance. The Government has made a number of wildly incorrect
- [MyHospitals Website Update Welcomed](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/myhospitals-website-update-welcomed-2/) - The Chief Executive of the Australian Health Insurance Association, Dr Michael Armitage today welcomed the Government’s decision to publish hospital acquired infection rates on the MyHospitals website as an important step towards improving health outcomes for all Australians. He congratulated the Government on moving towards greater transparency, in a move which he said “will be
- [Australians Value Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australians-value-private-health-insurance-2/) - More and more Australians are taking out Private Health Insurance because they value freedom of choice, their right to a choice of doctor, hospital and timing of their surgery. The CEO of the AHIA, Dr Michael Armitage said the fact that more than 12 million Australians have some form of private health insurance reflects a
- [Government Means Testing Modelling Flawed](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/government-means-testing-modelling-flawed-2/) - An independent report released today exposes flawed Treasury modelling in relation to the Government’s proposal to means-testing the 30% Rebate on Private Health Insurance. “Members of Parliament still making up their minds on this important issue need to realise that the Treasury figures on which the Government is relying are fanciful and should not be
- [Public and Private Health Hurt by Rebate Cuts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/public-and-private-health-hurt-by-rebate-cuts-2/) - Private Healthcare Australia warns that an uncertain period lies ahead for Australia’s health system. The passage of the means-testing legislation through the Lower House signals a shift in the balance of Australian healthcare. The consequence of the Gillard Government’s decision to means-test the 30% Rebate is that Australians needing healthcare will be torn between increasing
- [High Claims Payments Hits Record High of $3.8 billion in 2011](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-claims-payments-hits-record-high-of-3-8-billion-in-2011-2/) - Private Healthcare Australia’s annual survey of ‘high claims’ in 2011, found that private health funds paid 169,825 claims where the benefit payment for the episode of care was more than $10,000. The benefits paid for all high claims in 2011 increased by 12% on the previous year, with total payments exceeding $3.8 billion. This represents
- [PHA Statement regarding MYEFO’s Private Health Insurance measures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-from-private-healthcare-australia-chief-executive-dr-michael-armitage-regarding-myefos-private-health-insurance-measures-2/) - “The Minister has identified that there are a number of issues to discuss before changes to the method of indexing the Private Health Insurance Rebate come into play in 12 months time. “One issue which will need to be considered is the fact that health inflation runs at a figure significantly higher than the Consumer
- [Private Health Funds to pay $15.5 billion in benefits in 2012-13](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-funds-to-pay-15-5-billion-in-benefits-in-2012-13-2/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1.3 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2012‐13, bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $15.5 billion. Health Minister Tanya Plibersek today announced an average premium increase of 5.6 per cent reflecting the increasing cost of health care in Australia. More than
- [AHIA Survey Shows Increase In High Claims Under 30s](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahia-survey-shows-increase-in-high-claims-under-30s-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association’s annual High Claims Survey* has revealed an increase of more than 8 percent in the number of high claims paid for people under 30 years of age during 2007. AHIA CEO, Hon Dr Michael Armitage said the survey was further evidence that young Australians did use their private health insurance
- [Treasury Figures Show An Additional 900,000 Australians Will Rely On The Public Hospital Sector](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/treasury-figures-show-an-additional-900000-australians-will-rely-on-the-public-hospital-sector-2/) - The AHIA has released a paper detailing the impact of the Federal Government decision to modify the Medicare Levy Surcharge Thresholds. Australian Health Insurance Association Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage said the AHIA was keen to ensure all parties – Government, health professionals and consumers – had access to factual information about the impact
- [PHI Membership Could Take a SWAN Dive!!!](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-membership-could-take-a-swan-dive-2/) - The number of Australians taking out Private Health Insurance has increased by almost 100,000 during the March 2008 quarter, but the Industry’s peak body (AHIA) has warned that Government changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge threshold will reverse recent gains, adding hundreds of thousands to the public hospital system. Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC)
- [Hundreds Of Thousands To Join Public Hospital Waiting Lists](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/hundreds-of-thousands-to-join-public-hospital-waiting-lists-2/) - Hundreds of thousands of Australians will now rely on public hospital waiting lists as a result of the Rudd Government’s decision to lift the Medicare Levy Surcharge threshold, AHIA CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said today. AHIA research conducted late last year found that about 2% of current members would drop Private Health Insurance (PHI)
- [AHIA Challenges AMA on Opposition to Transparency and Accountability](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahia-challenges-ama-on-opposition-to-transparency-and-accountability-2/) - The Australian Private Health Fund Industry’s peak body says the Australian Medical Association should back plans to publish data on hospital and Doctor performance, including matters such as hospital-acquired infections, readmission and mortality rates. Speaking at the 4th Annual E-Health Research Colloquim in Brisbane today, the CEO of the AHIA, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said
- [Private Health Insurers Warn on Hospital Segregation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurers-warn-on-hospital-segregation-2/) - The Australian Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body has warned that any plan to segregate Privately Insured patients from uninsured patients in the NSW hospital system would threaten the tenets of Medicare. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said Medicare’s objective was to ensure all Australians have access to free or
- [Private Health Insurance Backs National Medical Registration](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-backs-national-medical-registration-2/) - The Australian Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body has welcomed moves to give consumers access to information about the performance of medical practitioners and hospitals. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said the AHIA also supported a system of National Registration because of the contribution it would make to improving patient
- [Private Health Funds to inject more than $10 billion into Health Care in 2008](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-funds-to-inject-more-than-10-billion-into-health-care-in-2008-2/) - Australia’s Private Health Insurance Industry is expected to inject more than $10 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2008. Reflecting the increasing cost of health care in Australia, the Health Minister Nicola Roxon today announced that PHI premiums would increase by an average of 4.99% from April 2008. The premium increase is necessary to
- [Young Australians Sign Up to PHI in Record Numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/young-australians-sign-up-to-phi-in-record-numbers-2/) - Young Australians are taking out Private Health Insurance in record numbers with the latest statistics showing an additional 155,763 persons under the age of 30 joined health funds during 2007. Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) figures released today show that the proportion of the Australian population taking out PHI continued to rise in the
- [Senate Confirms Longer Waiting Lists, Higher Premiums As a Result Of Medicare Levy Surcharge Changes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-confirms-longer-waiting-lists-higher-premiums-as-a-result-of-medicare-levy-surcharge-changes-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed the release of the Senate Economics Committee’s Report into the Tax Laws Amendment (Medicare Levy Surcharge Thresholds) Bill 2008. “The Senate’s Report confirms that the proposed changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge thresholds will result in longer waiting lists for public hospitals and higher private health insurance
- [Private Funds Welcome Minister Roxon's Commitment To Measure Hospital Performance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-funds-welcome-minister-roxons-commitment-to-measure-hospital-performance-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed the announcement by the Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Hon. Nicola Roxon, that all hospitals – both public and private – will be benchmarked through the introduction of performance measures. “Minister Roxon’s announcement today is an important first step in addressing quality and safety issues in
- [Rudd Government Needs To Guarantee 30% Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/rudd-government-needs-to-guarantee-30-rebate-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today called on the Rudd Labor Government to reconfirm its commitment to the 30% Rebate on private health insurance and Lifetime Health Cover. This follows the release of an ACT Labor Government submission to the Rudd Government’s National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission (NHHRC) which supports the abolition of
- [Record Private Health Insurance Membership Keeping Pressure Off Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/record-private-health-insurance-membership-keeping-pressure-off-public-hospitals-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed the release of figures which show that a record 10.9 million Australians held private health insurance membership at the end of June 2008. AHIA CEO, Dr Michael Armitage, said the release of the Private Health Insurance Administration Council’s (PHIAC) June 2008 quarter statistics demonstrates the importance of
- [AHIA Calls for Prostheses Listing Overhaul](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahia-calls-for-prostheses-listing-overhaul-2/) - The Australian Private Health Industry’s peak representative body is calling on the Federal Government to overhaul the listing arrangements for surgically implanted prostheses immediately, allowing only one prosthesis per billing code. The Australian Health Insurance Association says current arrangements enable medical suppliers to place more than one prosthesis on one billing code. “When this occurs,
- [Private Health Fund Fraud under Investigation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-fund-fraud-under-investigation-2/) - Private Health Funds, with the cooperation of some provider associations, are targeting fraudulent ancillary healthcare providers in a bid to keep premium increases to a minimum for health fund members. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said that while fraudulent activity among health care providers was not widespread, it did contribute
- [Medicare Levy Surcharge](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medicare-levy-surcharge-2/) - “The compromise reached in the Senate on the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) Threshold Bill is an improvement on the Government’s original proposal and it is recognition that maintaining a balance between public and private health is crucial to the future of Australian health care,” AHIA CEO Hon Dr Michael Armitage said today. “In recent months
- [AHIA Conference 2008 – Health Care: Making the Case for Quality](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahia-conference-2008-health-care-making-the-case-for-quality-2/) - Private health Funds from across Australia have gathered in Sydney for the Australian Health Insurance Association’s annual two day conference, opened this morning by Health Minister Nicola Roxon. AHIA CEO, Dr Michael Armitage said the Industry welcomed the Minister’s announcement to extend arrangements enabling young adults up to the age of 25 to remain covered
- [Senate Rejects MLS Threshold Bill](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-rejects-mls-threshold-bill-2/) - “The Senate’s rejection of the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) Threshold Bill is a sensible decision which will ensure Australia’s balanced public/private health system is maintained,” AHIA CEO Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said today. . “It’s good news for Australian health care; for people on public waiting lists who won’t be affected by an influx of
- [Private Funds Welcome Minister Roxon's Response to Doyle Prosthesis Review](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-funds-welcome-minister-roxons-response-to-doyle-prosthesis-review-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed Health Minister Nicola Roxon’s response to the Doyle Review of Prosthesis Listing Arrangements. AHIA CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said the Minister’s decision to endorse 6 of the 14 recommendations of the Review was reasonable and consistent with the Private Health Insurance Industry’s assessment of the Doyle
- [Medicare Levy Surcharge Changest to Hit Pensioners Hardest: Up to $126 Increase In Private Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/medicare-levy-surcharge-changest-to-hit-pensioners-hardest-up-to-126-increase-in-private-health-insurance-premiums-2/) - The Senate is today considering the Rudd Government’s proposed increases to the Medicare Levy Surcharge thresholds. “If the Senate passes this legislation, the result will be a devastating increase in premiums for pensioners, for low income earners and especially for families,” said the CEO of the Australian Health Insurance Association, (AHIA), Dr Michael Armitage. “The
- [More Than 1,000 Extra Public Hospital Beds Needed Under MLS Change](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/more-than-1000-extra-public-hospital-beds-needed-under-mls-change-2/) - Australia’s public hospital system will need more than 1000 additional beds to cope with the influx of patients who will rely on the public sector if the Rudd Government’s proposed Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) changes are passed by the Senate this week. AHIA CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said State and Territory Governments would not
- [Private Health Funds Pay a Record $10 Billion on behalf of members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-funds-pay-a-record-10-billion-on-behalf-of-members-2/) - Australia’s Private Health Insurance Funds paid more than $10 billion in benefits to members during the last financial year, setting records in all payment categories. The $10,060,034,811 injected into the health care system by private health funds in 2007-08 represents a 10.4% increase in benefits paid during the previous year. This percentage increase in benefits
- [Rudd Abandons Private Health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/rudd-abandons-private-health-2/) - The Rudd Government’s decision to dismantle the private health insurance rebate will place increased pressure on the public hospital system and force up premiums for those Australians who take responsibility for their own health care by taking out private health cover. Every single one of the more than 11 million Australians with Private Health Insurance
- [Statement from AHIA regarding speculation the Rudd Government plans to dismantle the Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-from-ahia-regarding-speculation-the-rudd-government-plans-to-dismantle-the-private-health-insurance-rebate-2/) - If the story appearing in today's Australian is correct, the Rudd government looks set to dismantle the 30% Rebate. This is despite the fact that Labor promised the voters at the 2007 election that they would maintain the existing private health insurance rebates. Such a move to undermine the private health rebate would be bad
- [High Claims in 2008 top $2.6 billion](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-claims-in-2008-top-2-6-billion-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association’s Annual High Claims Survey has found that the number of “High Claims” – claims exceeding $10,000 – increased in 2008 by 11.6 percent on the previous year. The cost of all High Claims in 2008 increased by 18% compared with the previous year, with benefits paid exceeding $2.6 billion. This
- [More than $11 billion into Health Care from Private Funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/more-than-11-billion-into-health-care-from-private-funds-2/) - Private Health Insurance Funds will inject an additional $950 million into Australia’s health care system in 2009 bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $11 billion. The premium increase of 6.02 percent announced today by Health Minister Nicola Roxon is necessary to ensure funds can continue to pay for the increasing cost
- [Private Health Insurance On The Increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-on-the-increase-2/) - The percentage of the Australian population with Private Health Insurance (PHI) is continuing to increase with latest figures showing that more 11.1 million Australians (52%) were insured at the end of the December 2008 quarter. The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) has welcomed the Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) figures saying it is further
- [National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/national-health-and-hospitals-reform-commission-2/) - The National Health and Hospital Reform Commission’s interim report must recognise the efficiency of the private health sector in Australia and encourage growth in this sector as a priority. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said the Commission should acknowledge the important role of the private sector in relieving
- [More Than 11 Million Australians Privately Insured](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/more-than-11-million-australians-privately-insured-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) has welcomed the release of figures today showing that more than 11 million Australians held some form of Private Health Insurance membership at the end of September 2008. The release of the Private Health Insurance Administration Council’s (PHIAC) September 2008 quarter statistics shows that PHI membership increased for both
- [Swan’s Assault on Private Health Hurts Older Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/swans-assault-on-private-health-hurts-older-australians-2/) - The Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body, the Australian Health Insurance Association, says the new Intergenerational Report demonstrates more than ever the importance of retaining the Private Health Members’ Rebate. AHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, said the Rudd Government was drawing illogical conclusions from the Intergenerational Report. “The Australian population is ageing and
- [AHIA 2009 Conference - Private Health Insurance: Investing in the Future](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/ahia-2009-conference-private-health-insurance-investing-in-the-future-2/) - The future of Private Health Insurance in Australia, the implementation of Clinical Guidelines in patient treatment and the non‐payment of “Never Events” will be key topics at the Australian Health Insurance Association’s (AHIA) 2009 Conference in Melbourne this week. AHIA CEO Dr Michael Armitage said the 2009 Conference, Private Health Insurance: Investing in the Future,
- [Senate Report Ignores the Facts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/senate-report-ignores-the-facts-2/) - The Senate Community Affairs Committee Report into the Fairer Private Health Insurance Incentives Bill, 2009, predictably ignores the impact which means-testing the 30% Rebate will have on people downgrading their private health insurance. AHIA CEO, Dr Michael Armitage, said the Government Senators’ Report quotes the “usual suspects”, who have long sought to abolish any incentives
- [Forcing More Australians Onto Public Hospital Waiting Lists Is Not An "Insignificant" Matter](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/forcing-more-australians-onto-public-hospital-waiting-lists-2/) - In introducing legislation into the Parliament this morning to means-test the 30% Rebate on private health insurance, the Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon, has admitted that her policy will force more Australians onto public hospital waiting lists. “Labor has conceded that it’s plan to dismantle the 30% Rebate will result in more Australians
- [Almost one million drop or downgrade PHI cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/almost-one-million-drop-or-downgrade-phi-cover-2/) - Up to one million Australians would be likely to drop or downgrade their Private Health Insurance under the Rudd Government’s proposal to dismantle the 30% rebate. AHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage said an analysis of Federal Budget figures, Industry data and research conducted by Roy Morgan Market Research and IPSOS Research revealed that
- [200,000 Extra Australians Now Relying On Public Hospitals For Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/200000-extra-australians-now-relying-on-public-hospitals-for-care-2/) - The release of official private health membership figures yesterday shows that 200,000 Australians have been discouraged from joining Private Health Insurance by the Medicare Levy Surcharge changes announced in last year’s budget. “The Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) - the independent regulator of the private health system - figures show that the proportion of
- [Private Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-premiums-2-2-2/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2010-11 bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $12 billion. Today’s premium adjustment by Health Minister Nicola Roxon acknowledges the increasing cost of health care and identifies an expected increase of 7.94% in expenditure by
- [Labor-Greens Agreement Threatens Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/labor-greens-agreement-threatens-private-health-insurance-2/) - The Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body, the Australian Health Insurance Association, says premiums for 11.6 million Australians will rise by a minimum of 43% if the Private Health Insurance Rebate is abolished as a result of the Labor-Greens agreement announced today. The Chief Executive Officer of the AHIA, Dr Michael Armitage, has written to
- [Greens Health Policy Ignores Benefits of Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/greens-health-policy-ignores-benefits-of-private-health-insurance-rebate-2/) - The Australian Greens’ policy to abolish the Private Health Insurance Rebate will increase public hospital waiting lists and increase the cost of Private Health Fund membership. Claims by Greens Leader Senator Bob Brown today that the Greens would abolish the Rebate to fund a Denticare scheme, and at the same time reduce health system costs
- [PHI Membership Keeps Pressure off Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-membership-keeps-pressure-off-public-hospitals-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) has welcomed figures released by PHIAC today which show an increase in the number of privately insured Australians for the March 2010 quarter. AHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, said that while the increase of 0.7% in both Hospital and General Treatment cover membership was good news and
- [Health reform must include reporting on hospital and provider performance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/health-reform-must-include-reporting-on-hospital-and-provider-performance-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed and endorsed the Australian Government’s plan to introduce performance standards for all hospitals as part of its proposed National Health and Hospitals Network. In addition, the AHIA indicated that the Government should also ensure the reporting of performance standards for all providers. “Genuine reform of the health
- [High Claims Total $2.7billion](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/high-claims-total-2-7billion-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association’s Annual High Claims Survey – hospital claims exceeding $10,000 - found that the number of high claims for 2009 increased by 4,000 (3.2%) and the cost of those high claims increased by $120 million (4.7% ) on the previous 12 months. The total benefits paid for all high claims reached
- [Private Health Insurance Funds Welcome Hospital Ranking](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-funds-welcome-hospital-ranking-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) is very supportive of any plans by the Rudd Government to publish information on the performance of our hospitals. Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, said the AHIA had long been advocating for improved transparency on the basis that international studies show the publication of information on individual hospitals
- [Government Confused on PHI Numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/government-confused-on-phi-numbers-2/) - The CEO of the Australian Health Insurance Association, Dr Michael Armitage, says Government efforts to justify the dismantling of the Private Health Members’ Rebate by citing a growth in Private Health Insurance Membership are misleading. Dr Armitage says ongoing growth in membership reported in PHIAC’s Private Health Insurance Annual Report 2008-09, demonstrates the value Australians
- [Risk Equalisation and Community Rating](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/risk-equalisation-and-community-rating/) - The purpose of risk equalisation is to support the community rating principle. Insurers are not allowed to risk rate premiums and risk equalisation partially compensates insurers with a riskier demographic profile by re-distributing money from those insurers paying less than average benefits to those paying higher than average benefits. The Risk Equalisation Trust Fund is
- [Private Health – A Safer Option](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-a-safer-option-2/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association says the Productivity Commission’s Draft Report provides further evidence that the Government’s proposal to dismantle the 30% Rebate is flawed public policy. The Draft Report supports calls from the vast majority of health and consumer organisations for the Government to continue to support the private health sector and give all
- [Means-testing affects entire Australian health system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/means-testing-affects-entire-australian-health-system-2/) - A new Report into the impact of the Government’s policy to means-test the 30% Rebate on Private Health Insurance has concluded that the policy will have a negative impact across the entire Australian health system. The Report, which is based on ANOP/Newspoll research of 2000 Australian households and compiled by Deloitte, estimates the economic impacts
- [Clinically Equivalent “No-Gap” Prostheses](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/clinically-equivalent-no-gap-prostheses-2/) - The medical device manufacturing industry is causing unnecessary concern among Australia’s private insured patients over changes to the August 2009 Prostheses List, the Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Dr Michael Armitage said. “The Medical Technology Association (MTAA) repeatedly blames private health insurers for the gap payments on prostheses when in fact the gaps are a
- [“No, Minister”](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/no-minister-2/) - Private health insurance plays an important part in delivering Australians access to world-class care. Last year private health funds paid $12.4 billion in benefits towards the healthcare of the 11.7 million Australians with private health cover. By proposing to means-test the 30% Rebate, the Minister for Health and Ageing will make healthcare less affordable for
- [Statement from Private Healthcare Australia - PHI Premiums 2024](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statement-from-private-healthcare-australia-phi-premiums-2024/) - 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.
- [The Value of Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-value-of-private-health-insurance-2018/) - “Private Health Insurance gives consumers the peace of mind to know exactly when they can be admitted for surgery and other essential medical treatments and that is why the vast majority of consumers value it despite concerns about affordability,” according to Private Healthcare CEO Dr Rachel David. Dr David said while this year’s average premium
- [Private Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-premiums-2-2/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2010-11 bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $12 billion. Today’s premium adjustment by Health Minister Nicola Roxon acknowledges the increasing cost of health care and identifies an expected increase of 7.94% in expenditure by
- [PHI Rebate Keeps Pressure off Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phi-rebate-keeps-pressure-off-public-hospitals-2/) - The Private Health Insurance Rebate helps to keep premiums affordable, encourages Australians to take out private health cover and eases pressure on the public hospital system, Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive, Dr Rachel David said today. “Each year in its pre-budget submission, the Australian Council of Social Services calls for an end to the Private

## Pages

- [Private Healthcare Australia (PHA)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/) - Why do you need private health insurance?Private health insurance reforms and what they mean to youWhat does gold, silver and bronze private health insurance mean?Latest News New polling reveals strong opposition to the Government’s health insurance rebate cut31 July 2026Media ReleasesNew research has revealed strong opposition to the Albanese Government’s plan to slash the higher
- [Provider Resources](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/) - ECLIPSEContacts for ProvidersSecond-Tier Eligible HospitalsNational Private Patient Hospital Claim FormPrescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue ProductsCommon Acute Care CertificateGuidelines for Recognition of Private Hospital Based Rehabilitation ServicesreceiptRehabilitation CertificateExceptional Drugs ListPresenting Illness CodesHospital Code of ConductPHA podiatry scheduleESSA scheduleAudiology schedulePrivate health insurance natural therapies rebates update
- [National Private Patient Hospital Claim Form](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/national-private-patient-hospital-claim-form/) - National Private Patient Public Hospital Claim Form (For public hospital claims only) The National Private Patient Public Hospital Claim Form is the nationally standardised form used for the submission of claims for the payment of benefits by health funds for all admitted privately insured patients in public hospitals across Australia. This form was reviewed and
- [Our member funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/member-funds/) - Private Healthcare Australia represents 21 Australian health funds with a combined coverage of over 15 million Australians, or 99% of the sector on membership. AIA Health Insurance www.aia.com.au/health 1800 333 004 Australian Unity Health www.australianunity.com.au 13 29 39 BUPA Australia www.bupa.com.au 134 135 CBHS Health Fund www.cbhs.com.au 1300 654 123 Defence Health www.defencehealth.com.au 1800
- [Participating Funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/participatingfunds/) - Health Funds who are a signatory to the PHI Code of Conduct ACA Health Benefits Fund www.acahealth.com.au 1300 368 390 AIA Health Insurance www.aia.com.au/health 1800 333 004 Australian Unity Health www.australianunity.com.au 13 29 39 BUPA Australia www.bupa.com.au 134 135 CBHS Health Fund www.cbhs.com.au 1300 654 123 Defence Health www.defencehealth.com.au 1800 335 425 Doctors’ Health
- [Transfer Certificate & Fund Contacts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/transfer-certificate/) - The industry agreed transfer certificate must be completed by the health fund of a member that is transferring to another health fund within 14 days of the notice period given by the member. If the member does not nominate a receiving health fund, then the transfer certificate must be issued to the leaving member to
- [Protect affordable private health insurance for older Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/protect-your-rebate/) - Government proposal could increase health insurance costs for more than 3 million older Australians The Australian Government has proposed reducing the private health insurance rebate for more than 3 million Australians aged 65 and over from 1 April 2027. If approved by Parliament, many older Australians could pay hundreds of dollars more each year to
- [July 2026 Prescribed List Online Search Tool - Results](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/online-database-results/)
- [July 2026 Prescribed List Online Search Tool - Results](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/online-database-results/)
- [July 2026 Prescribed List Online Search Tool](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/online-database/)
- [July 2026 Prescribed List Online Search Tool](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/online-database/)
- [PHA Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/)
- [Our board members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/board-members/) - PHA Board Members As at 1st July 2026 The Hon John Brumby AOIndependent ChairMr Milosh MilisavljevicMedibank Ms Kate WilliamsBupa Ms Lorraine ThomasHCF Dr Lachlan HendersonHBF Ms Rebecca HarwoodAustralian Unity Ms Helen TroupCBHS Health Fund Mr Jon GoodgameHealth Partners Ms Sharon WaterhousePhoenix Health
- [Past Prescribed Lists of Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/archive/) - Note: Due to limitations with Excel – cell height cannot be greater than 256 pixels – some cells in the spreadsheet may contain incomplete information. You are advised to reference another version of the Prescribed List if you find incomplete information. March 2026 DATABASES File Size March 2026 Prescribed List – XML Version 7.89
- [Prescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/) - The Prescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products (“Prescribed List”) arrangements are set out in Division 72 of the PHI Act and the Private Health Insurance (Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products) Rules. The Minister will make the rules under the authority of subsections 72-1, 72-10 and 333-20 of the PHI Act. The
- [Past Prescribed Lists of Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/archive/) - Note: Due to limitations with Excel – cell height cannot be greater than 256 pixels – some cells in the spreadsheet may contain incomplete information. You are advised to reference another version of the Prescribed List if you find incomplete information. March 2026 DATABASES File Size March 2026 Prescribed List – XML Version 7.89
- [Prescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/prescribed-list-of-medical-devices-and-human-tissue-products/) - The Prescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products (“Prescribed List”) arrangements are set out in Division 72 of the PHI Act and the Private Health Insurance (Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products) Rules. The Minister will make the rules under the authority of subsections 72-1, 72-10 and 333-20 of the PHI Act. The
- [Calculate Your Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/calculate-your-private-health-insurance-rebate/) - Use the simple calculator below to quickly find how much your private health insurance rebate is worth and how much you have to pay. Age Group * Under 65 65-69 70+ Calculate rebate based on * My income My family income Income * $105,000 or less $105,001 to $123,000 $123,001 to $164,000 $164,001 or more
- [Calculate Your Medicare Levy Surcharge](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/calculate-your-medicare-levy-surcharge/)
- [Lifetime Health Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/benefits-to-you/how-you-can-save/lifetime-health-cover-2/) - The Lifetime Health Cover initiative is a way of encouraging young Australians to take up Private Healthcare. Fundamentally, if you join Private Healthcare at a young age you benefit more as the years go by. And if you don’t take out Private Hospital Cover by your 31st birthday, you pay a 2% loading for every
- [How You Can Save](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/benefits-to-you/how-you-can-save/) - There are a number of federal government initiatives designed to encourage more people to take out private health insurance which can help you to reduce the cost of your private health insurance. In certain circumstances, if you don’t have hospital cover, you may have to pay an additional surcharge at tax time. These government initiatives include: Private
- [Personalised Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/benefits-to-you/personalised-cover/) - Hospital Cover Hospital policies help cover the cost of in-hospital treatment by your doctor and hospital costs such as accommodation and theatre fees. Generally, any medical services listed under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) can be covered on some form of private hospital insurance. Some services which are not listed on the MBS, such as
- [Better Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/benefits-to-you/better-care/) - You and your family’s health are too important to put at risk. That’s why it's important to have healthcare cover for you and your children. If something does happen, there is nothing worse than waiting for months to have surgery in the public system and then having it postponed again at the last minute. You're
- [Benefits for you](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/benefits-to-you/) - Having private health insurance is an important and cost effective method of protecting against unexpected health issues and providing you with more control over your health care, choice of services and choice of doctor. Private health insurance puts you first. Even if you have no family or personal history of serious illness you cannot be
- [Choosing a Health Fund](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/choosing-a-health-fund/) - Choosing a health fund It is important to understand what you are covered for and what your entitlements are under the policy you have chosen so that you can receive the treatment you want, when you need it. A strong health insurance sector benefits members through access to care when they need it, and all
- [Find a Health Fund](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/find-a-health-fund/) - The benefits of private health insurance Private health insurance gives people choice and peace of mind when it comes to their healthcare. Having private heath insurance means: Access to timely careAvoiding long public hospital wait listsChoosing your doctorContinuity of care with a fully trained specialistRelieving pressure on the public system, leaving it for those who
- [Medicare Levy Surcharge](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/medicare-levy-surcharge/) - What is the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS)? The Medicare Levy Surcharge is an extra 1% to 1.5% levy paid by Australian taxpayers who don’t have Private Hospital Cover and are considered by the Government to be high income earners. The Medicare Levy Surcharge is in addition to the 2% Medicare levy (which is paid by
- [Australian Government Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/private-health-insurance-rebate/) - The Australian Government Rebate on private health insurance provides a reduction in the premium cost of private healthcare. It is recognition by the Australian Government that Australians with private healthcare are making a substantial financial contribution not only to their own healthcare but also to Australia’s healthcare system. It also recognises the fact that private
- [Who We Are](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/who-we-are/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) is the Australian private health insurance industry’s peak representative body that currently has 21 registered health funds throughout Australia and collectively represents 99% of people covered by private health insurance. PHA member funds today provide healthcare benefits for over 15 million Australians.
- [About PHA](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) is the Australian private health insurance industry’s peak representative body that currently has 21 registered health funds throughout Australia and collectively represents 99% of people covered by private health insurance. PHA member funds today provide healthcare benefits for more than 15 million Australians. Private health insurance is provided through organisations registered
- [Find my MP - Results](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/protect-your-rebate/find-my-mp-results/)
- [Find my MP](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/protect-your-rebate/find-my-mp/)
- [Second-Tier Eligible Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/second-tier-eligible-hospitals/) - Page last updated: 29 May 2026 Note: A downloadable version in Excel format is maintained by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and is available on their website here. [table id=4 automatic_url_conversion=true responsive=collapse datatables_fixedheader=top datatables_fixedheader_offsettop=98 /] Second Tier Category Key A – private hospitals that provide psychiatric care, including treatment of addictions, for at
- [Second-Tier Eligible Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/second-tier-eligible-hospitals/) - Page last updated: 29 May 2026 Note: A downloadable version in Excel format is maintained by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and is available on their website here. [table id=4 automatic_url_conversion=true responsive=collapse datatables_fixedheader=top datatables_fixedheader_offsettop=98 /] Second Tier Category Key A – private hospitals that provide psychiatric care, including treatment of addictions, for at
- [ECLIPSE](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/eclipse/) - ECLIPSE Fund Contacts ECLIPSE Certificate Fund Requirements ECLIPSE Online Hospital Claiming User Guide ECLIPSE Hospital Claim Data Dictionary v1.0 In-Hospital Claiming (IHC) Miscellaneous Codes List (version 4.4) In-Hospital Claiming (IHC) Response Codes List (version 2.0) ECLIPSE – Medicare Australia Online Eligibility Presenting Illness List (Version 1.4) – current as at 1/4/2019 The following table contains
- [ECLIPSE](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/eclipse/) - ECLIPSE Fund Contacts ECLIPSE Certificate Fund Requirements ECLIPSE Online Hospital Claiming User Guide ECLIPSE Hospital Claim Data Dictionary v1.0 In-Hospital Claiming (IHC) Miscellaneous Codes List (version 4.4) In-Hospital Claiming (IHC) Response Codes List (version 2.0) ECLIPSE – Medicare Australia Online Eligibility Presenting Illness List (Version 1.4) – current as at 1/4/2019 The following table contains
- [Contact Us](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/contact-pha/) - If you are deciding on which health fund to join, choosing the type of private health cover for your health needs or simply wish to compare the latest policies between the different health funds, click here If you are from overseas coming to Australia and need health cover whilst in Australia, click here If you
- [Subscription successful](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/subscribe-success/) - Thank you You’ve just been sent an email to confirm your email address. Please click on the link in this email to confirm your subscription.
- [Subscribe](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/subscribe/) - Sign up for website updates Name * Email * Health Fund Subscribe
- [Unsubscribe](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/unsubscribe/) - Thank You You have been successfully removed from our subscriber list. You will no longer hear from us.
- [Audiology schedule](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/audiology-schedule/) - Click here to download the schedule. [pdf-embedder url=”https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Audiology-Item-Code-Schedule-effective-1-April-2026.pdf” pagetextbox=”on” download=”on” pageturners=”on” toolbarfixed=”on” scrollbar=”vertical” pagetextbox=”on” scrolltotop=”on”]
- [Private health by the numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/private-health-by-the-numbers/) - [pdf-embedder url=”https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/PHI-Choice-and-Peace-of-Mind-Factsheet-Updated-26March2026.pdf” pagetextbox=”off” download=”off” pageturners=”off” toolbar=”none”]
- [What does PHA advocate for](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/advocacy/) - Private Healthcare Australia advocates on behalf of over 15 million private health members who value choice and peace of mind when it comes to their healthcare. Having private health insurance means: Access to timely care Avoiding long public hospital wait lists Choosing your doctor Continuity of care with a fully trained specialist Every day
- [Our role](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/our-role/) - check_boxTo represent over 15 million Australians who choose better quality healthcare services and to put their healthcare needs first check_boxTo foster and promote the principles, practice, development and philosophy of voluntary health insurance check_boxTo make representations and submissions where deemed necessary or desirable to the appropriate persons or authorities in respect of any matter affecting
- [Contacts for Providers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/contacts-for-providers/) - Are you a Health Provider searching for health fund contact details to register with a health fund as a Medical or Allied Health Provider? Below is a list of health fund contact details that may assist you with your specific needs. PHA Member Funds Contacts Provider Type Email/Phone ahm Health Insurance Provider Liaison Team All
- [The facts about health insurance and private hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/the-facts-about-health-insurance-and-private-hospitals/) - The facts about health insurance and private hospitals What benefits (payouts) do health funds provide for customers? There are two main parts of private health insurance, benefits for hospital treatment, and benefits for general treatment (dentists, allied health services such as physiotherapy, and other benefits). Health funds are not allowed by law to provide benefits
- [Annual Reports](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/annual-reports/) - Code of Conduct Compliance Committee Annual Reports Click here to download a copy of the 2025 Annual Report [800 KB] Click here to download a copy of the 2024 Annual Report [1 MB] Click here to download a copy of the 2023 Annual Report [168 KB] Click here to download a copy of the
- [Redbridge report: Experiences with medical specialist and surgeon fees](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/redbridge-report-experiences-with-medical-specialist-and-surgeon-fees/) - Redbridge report: Experiences with medical specialist and surgeon fees (22 September 2025)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/conduct-faq/) - What is a Code of Conduct? A Code of Conduct sets out agreed standards and responsibilities for companies and organisations, or for whole industries. Why do we need a Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct? The Code has been introduced to complement the existing regulations funds work under and to enhance the relationship between consumers
- [Hospital Code of Conduct](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/hospital-code-of-conduct/) - Private Healthcare Australia and the Australian Private Hospitals Association have reached agreement on a Voluntary Code of Practice for Hospital Purchaser/Provider Agreement Negotations between Private Hospitals and Private Health Insurers. The Code is designed to encourage best practice in contracting and is principally concerned with the negotiation process. This includes ensuring the content of contracts
- [Code of Conduct Documents](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/documents/) - Development of the Code The Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct has been developed by Private Healthcare Australia and the Members Health Fund Alliance as the bodies which represent health funds. Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct Click here to download a copy of the Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct. Private Health Insurance Code
- [Value for young people](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/advocacy/value-for-young-people/) - Private health insurance provides young people with value, particularly when it comes to mental health and dental care.
- [PHA Fact Check](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fact-check/) - PHA Fact Check PHA Fact Check determines the accuracy of claims made by advocacy groups, commentators, and other public figures about health funds and health insurance. Note: The claims on this fact check page are presented in chronological order, from the earliest to the most recent date they were made. Claim: In 2016–17, operating profits
- [PHA Speaker Series 2025](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2025-pha-speaker-series/) - Our speaker series brings together leading voices from across health, policy, media, and economics to explore the forces shaping Australia’s health system. This curated program of thought-provoking sessions is designed to inform, challenge, and inspire stakeholders across the sector. How will the AI revolution impact health and financial services now and into the future –
- [ESSA schedule](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/essa-schedule/) - Click here to download the schedule. [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/ESSA-schedule-descriptor-change-effective-1-April-2025.pdf" pagetextbox="on" download="on" pageturners="on" toolbarfixed="on" scrollbar="vertical" pagetextbox="on" scrolltotop="on"]
- [pl update](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pl-jwt/)
- [Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/advocacy/submissions-and-presentations/)
- [Media & News](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/news/) - Media ReleasesThe facts about health insurance and private hospitalsFact CheckInterviews & TranscriptsSubmissionsPolicy & Research
- [Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/) - For Consumers: The Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct (Code) is designed to help you by providing clear information and transparency in your relationships with health funds. The Code covers four main areas of conduct in private health insurance: Ensuring you receive the correct information on private health insurance from appropriately trained staff; Ensuring you
- [The facts about health insurance and private hospitals (version two)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/facts-about-health-insurance-and-private-hospitals-version-two/) - Fact Check: The facts about health insurance and private hospitals Claim: Private hospitals are in crisis and need additional funding from the federal government and health funds to remain viable. Date made: 7 February 2025 Source: Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) Document: The Australian https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/companies/private-hospitals-need-450m-a-year-to-avoid-a-potential-industry-crisis-lobby-group-says/news-story/854ce03a033462b72aa79e7d99da596a?btr=169eec1e7481607cb9045d3b963a85f7 Verdict: FACTLike many businesses, some private hospitals have had
- [Prostheses tool test](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/prostheses-tool-test/)
- [Prostheses search tool - Results](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/prostheses-search-tool-results/)
- [FAQ](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/faqs/) - Understanding how your private health insurance benefits you is important, so we have put together some frequently asked questions to help you understand the private healthcare system. question_answerWhat is private health insurance?You may purchase private health insurance to cover all or some of the costs of health care as a private patient. There are two
- [Guideline for the Acceptance of Electronic Signatures for Private Health Insurance Eligibility and Claims in Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/guideline-for-the-acceptance-of-electronic-signatures-for-private-health-insurance-eligibility-and-claims-in-australia/) - The Guideline for the Acceptance of Electronic Signatures for Private Health Insurance Eligibility and Claims in Australia has been developed by the Australian Private Hospital CIO Forum (the Forum). Background to this Guideline The Forum’s objective has been to prepare a Guideline for the sector to assist organisations consider adoption and use of electronic signatures.
- [Fund Resources](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/) - A source of helpful and relevant information and documents for health funds including information about ECLIPSE, the industry code of conduct, fund contacts for reporting fraud and guidance notes. Product ReformECLIPSEPrivate Health Insurance Code of ConductTransfer Certificate & Fund ContactsPrescribed List of Medical Devices and Human Tissue ProductsFund Contacts for Reporting FraudSecure fraud portalSecond-Tier Eligible
- [Visitors or temporary visa holders](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/from-overseas-and-need-health-cover/cover-for-people-from-overseas-visitors-or-temporary-visa-holders/) - Overseas Visitors Health Cover – Contact Details AIA Health Insurance Email: ovhc.memberservices@aia.com.au Website: https://health.aia.com.au/international/overseas-visitors-health-cover Within Australia: Phone: 1800 161 170 Outside Australia: Phone: +61 3 8803 9961 Allianz Care Australia Email: ovhc@allianzcare.com.au Website: https://www.allianzcare.com.au/en/visitors-visa-ovhc.html (Overseas Visitor Health Cover) Website: https://www.allianzcare.com.au/en/visitors-visa-ovhc/visas-we-cover.html (Overseas Visitor Health Cover for Workers) Within Australia: Phone: 1300 727 193 Outside Australia: Phone:
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2024 - Venue](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2024conference/venue/) - HomeHomeProgramProgramSpeakersSpeakersVenueVenueContact UsContact UsSilver Sponsor 2024 PHA Conference Venue InterContinental Sydney 117 Macquarie Street Sydney, NSW 2000, AUSTRALIA The 2024 PHA Conference at the InterContinental Sydney was held in the Boronia room (Level 2).
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2024 - Speakers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2024conference/speakers/) - HomeHomeProgramProgramSpeakersSpeakersVenueVenueContact UsContact Us Silver Sponsor Keynote Speaker Dr Ben BraveryOriginally a zoologist and science communicator, Ben Bravery worked for the Australian and Chinese governments before being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at age twenty-eight. After undergoing eighteen months of cancer treatment, Ben decided on a career change. He became a doctor in 2018 and
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2024 - Program](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2024conference/program/) - HomeHomeProgramProgramSpeakersSpeakersVenueVenueContact UsContact Us Silver Sponsor Day 1 – Tuesday, 15th October 2024Day 2 – Wednesday, 16th October 2024Day 1 – Tuesday, 15th October 2024 Private Healthcare Australia 2024 Conference Program Boronia room on Level 2 (InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000) Healthcare for the empowered consumer: navigating fact from fiction amid the cost-of-living
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2024 - Contact Us](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2024conference/contact-us/) - HomeHomeProgramProgramSpeakersSpeakersVenueVenueContact UsContact Us Silver Sponsor 2024 PHA Conference Enquiries If you have any questions in relation to the 2024 PHA Conference, please contact conference@pha.org.au
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2024 - Registration](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2024conference/registration/) - HomeHomeProgramProgramSpeakersSpeakersVenueVenueContact UsContact Us Silver Sponsor Registrations for the conference have now closed.
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2024](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/2024conference/) - HomeHomeProgramProgramSpeakersSpeakersVenueVenueContact UsContact UsSilver Sponsor Healthcare for the empowered consumer: navigating fact from fiction amid the cost-of-living crisis 15-16 October 2024 The InterContinental Hotel, Sydney In-person event Private Healthcare Australia’s 2024 Conference – Healthcare for the empowered consumer: navigating fact from fiction amid the cost-of-living crisis took place on 15-16th October 2024 at The InterContinental Hotel, Sydney. The conference
- [Events](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/) - Past events
- [Past Events](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/pha-past-events/) - PHA Conference 2024 - Healthcare for the empowered consumer: navigating fact from fiction amid the cost-of-living crisis Click on the image below to go to the conference page. PHA Conference 2023 - Next-Generation Private Health: Emerging Demographics, Technology and Modernising Healthcare Click on the image below to go to the conference page.
- [Dental Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/dental-health-insurance/) - Half of all Australians claim for dental services through a health fund. How do I choose the best dental health insurance policy for my needs? Dental is an important part of any “extras” health insurance policy Review the typical prices of dental treatments and compare them with the reimbursements of the funds you are considering
- [Fund Contacts for Reporting Fraud](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/fraud/fund-contacts-for-reporting-fraud/) - This is a list of the appropriate Health Fund contacts if you have information regarding a suspected fraud. Australian Unity Health Limitedwww.australianunity.com.au Email: investigations@australianunity.com.au Phone: (03) 8682 7890 Write to: Australian Unity Benefit Risk GPO Box 9945 Melbourne VIC 3001 BUPA HI Pty Ltdwww.bupa.com.au Email: stopfraud@bupa.com.au Telephone: (07) 3239 4925 Write to: PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL
- [Podiatry schedule](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/podiatry-schedule/) - Click here to download the schedule. [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/20240425-Podiatry-schedule-final-effective-1-Sept-2024-1.pdf" pagetextbox="on" download="on" pageturners="on" toolbarfixed="on" scrollbar="vertical" pagetextbox="on" scrolltotop="on"]
- [Data Submission Portal](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/statistics-portal/)
- [Terms & Conditions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/terms-conditions/) - 1. Using our website – This site privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au (“Website”) is owned and operated by Private Healthcare Australia, ABN 35 008 621 994, Suite 1702, Level 17, Chifley Tower, 2 Chifley Square, SYDNEY NSW 2000, also referred to in these terms and conditions as “Private Healthcare Australia”, “we” or “us”. 2. In these terms and conditions,
- [Private Healthcare Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare/) - Private Healthcare Australia, formerly known as the Australian Health Insurance Association, is the Australian private health insurance industry's peak representative body that represents 22 health funds throughout Australia and collectively covers 98% of the private health insurance industry. Private Healthcare Australia member funds today provide healthcare benefits for over 14.5 million Australians. Private Healthcare Australia
- [Member Information](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/member-information/) - Private Healthcare Australia Limited currently has 22 members. Information about our members can be found here: https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/member-funds/ Under S4.3 of the Private Healthcare Australia Ltd Constitution: An Eligible Organisation* may apply to become a Member by submitting to the Secretary a properly completed application in the form prescribed by the Board. An application for membership
- [Health Funds supporting members during COVID-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/health-funds-supporting-members-during-covid-19/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Australian-Health-Funds-supporting-members-during-COVID-19_220224.pdf" pagetextbox="on" download="on" pageturners="on" toolbar="both" scrolltotop="on"]
- [Search Result](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/search-result/)
- [Out-of-Pocket Costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/out-of-pocket-costs/) - An out-of-pocket cost or ‘gap payment’ is the difference between the amount a doctor charges for a medical service and what Medicare and any private health insurer pays. The Federal Government’s fee transparency website is a helpful tool to help private patients manage out-of-pocket costs.
- [Constitution](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/member-information/constitution/) - PHA Constitution [356 KB]
- [Membership application form](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/member-information/membership-application-form/) - PHA Membership Application Form [129 KB]
- [Consumers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/) - We’ve compiled a series of helpful and relevant information for consumers including information about health insurance, the Medicare Levy and tools to calculate your rebate. Australian Health Funds supporting members during COVID-19Private health insurance during COVID-19Community RatingDental Health InsuranceFAQsFrom Overseas and Need Health Cover?Lifetime Health CoverAustralian Government Private Health Insurance RebateCalculate Your Private Health Insurance Rebatethumb_upMedicare
- [Past Events](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/past-events/) - 20051200612007120081200912010120111201212013220151 AHIA National Conference 200521 years agoClick here to download the full detailed program. (1.33 MB PDF) AHIA National Conference 2005 The Pathway to Sustainable Affordability 8-10 November 2005 The AHIA 2005 Conference considered the future…
- [Code of Conduct Portal](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/login/)
- [Lifetime Health Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/lifetime-health-cover/) - The Lifetime Health Cover initiative is a way of encouraging young Australians to take up private healthcare. Fundamentally, if you take out private healthcare at a young age you benefit more as you get older. If you don’t take out Private Hospital Cover by your 31st birthday, you will be forced to pay a 2%
- [Fraud](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/fraud/) - It is estimated that every year, millions of dollars are lost within Private Healthcare through acts of fraud and inappropriate claiming. Every dollar fraudulently claimed ultimately impacts negatively on the premium of those that hold private health insurance. What is Fraud? Receiving a benefit payment where there is no legitimate entitlement, submitting deliberately misleading or
- [Code of Conduct](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/code-of-conduct/) - For Health Funds The Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct (Code) is a self-regulatory and voluntary code to promote informed relationships between health funds and consumers. The Code has been introduced to complement the existing regulations funds work under and to enhance the relationship between consumers and health funds by adopting voluntary industry self-regulation. The
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2019](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha2019/) - HomeSpeakersProgramSponsors & Exhibitors The next frontier: Innovating for the future of private health in Australia Private Healthcare Australia’s 2019 Conference was held in Sydney on 28th November at the Telstra Customer Insight Centre. The one-day conference showcased the best of the Australian Healthcare industry and opened the door to discussions, concepts and solutions to secure
- [PHA Fraud and Risk Conference 2018](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2018-conference/) - HomeSpeakersProgram PHA Fraud and Risk Conference 2018 Private Healthcare Australia’s Fraud and Risk Conference was held on 15 and 16 November 2018 at the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort on the Gold Coast. Major Sponsor
- [PHA Fraud and Risk Conference 2018 - Program](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2018-conference/program/) - HomeSpeakersProgramPlease click here to download a printable PDF version of the conference program. PRIVATE HEALTHCARE AUSTRALIA 2018 FRAUD AND RISK CONFERENCE PROGRAM Marriott Resort and Spa, Surfers Paradise, QLD Who do I think you are? Thursday, 15 November 2018 12:30 Registration opens 13:00 to 14:00 Networking Lunch 14:00 to 14:15 Welcome and Official Opening 14:15 to 15:30
- [PHA Fraud and Risk Conference 2018 - Speakers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2018-conference/speakers/) - HomeSpeakersProgramSpeakers Mr Bill Mahon – The Mahon Consulting GroupWidely recognized as one of the United States’ leading authorities on health care fraud, Bill Mahon is President of The MAHON Consulting Group LLC (MCG), where he specializes in health care fraud detection, management and prevention strategies and services for private and public health insurance payers, law
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2017](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha2017/) - HomeSpeakersProgram Securing the Future of Private Health: Affordability, Participation, Value Private Healthcare Australia’s 2017 Conference was held on Thursday, 23 November 2017 at Crown Promenade Melbourne. The one-day conference showcased the best of the Australian Healthcare industry and opened the door to discussions, concepts and solutions to secure the future of private healthcare in Australia.
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2017 - Program](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha2017/program/) - HomeSpeakersProgramPlease click here to download a printable PDF version of the conference program. PRIVATE HEALTHCARE AUSTRALIA 2017 CONFERENCE PROGRAM Crown Promenade, Melbourne Securing the future of private health: affordability, participation, value Thursday, 23 November 2017 8:00am to 8:45am Registration 8:45am to 9:00am Open and Welcome 9:00am to 9:15am Keynote Address – Minister Greg Hunt Promenade Room 1 &
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2017 - Speakers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/pha2017/speakers/) - HomeSpeakersProgramSpeakers Mr John Batten, orthopaedic surgeonJohn Batten (MBBS Hon1, FRACS Orth, FA Orth A) is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Launceston, Tasmania. He is a visiting medical officer to the local public hospital and a senior lecturer for the University of Tasmania Medical School in Surgery, as well as a senior member of an orthopaedic
- [Private health insurance during COVID-19](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/private-health-insurance-during-covid-19/) - Having private health insurance is more important than ever COVID-19 does not mean the treatment for other illnesses stops. Treatment is still needed for accidents, injuries and infections. Women are still giving birth. People continue to battle cancer, cardio-related illness, chronic disease and pain. Members still need access to in-hospital mental health treatment. Members with
- [PHA Fraud Forum 2016 - Speakers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/speakers/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenueSpeakers Andrew Tragardh, Barrister Andrew is a barrister who specialises in commercial disputes, fraud and white collar crime. He has an excellent reputation for assisting victims of fraud to recover their misappropriated assets. He also has an impeccable record defending individuals and companies alleged to have committed fraud in either civil or criminal jurisdictions, and
- [PHA Fraud Forum 2016 - HICAPS (Platinum Sponsor)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/hicaps/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenuePLATINUM SPONSOR About HICAPS (Health Industry Claims and Payments Service) HICAPS is an electronic health claiming and payments system (with Medicare Easyclaim) that gives patients the convenience of automatic claims processing, on the spot, after their treatment and before they leave the surgery or practice. HICAPS is available at participating: dispensing optometrists, optical dispensers,
- [Private Healthcare Australia Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2016](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenueThe Private Healthcare Australia Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2016 was held in Maroochydore, at the Novotel Twin Waters Resort from 29 to 30 November. Participation was open to anyone engaged in the detection of fraud, inappropriate health claiming and claims leakage. The forum was extremely beneficial for all health fund investigation staff, risk managers,
- [PHA Fraud Forum 2016 - Venue](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/venue/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenueVenue The Private Healthcare Australia Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2016 was held at the Novotel Twin Waters Resort at Maroochydonre, Queensland. A premium 4-star resort nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Maroochy River, Novotel Twin Waters Resort is one of the top Sunshine Coast resorts for family holidays, group getaways and weekend escapes. Featuring
- [PHA Fraud Forum 2016 - Lorica Health (Platinum Sponsor)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/lorica-health/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenuePLATINUM SPONSOR About Lorica Health Lorica Health provides advanced claims analytics solutions and services to the healthcare sector. Our specialist team of data scientists, domain experts, analysts and engineers develop industry specific solutions which target fraud, abuse and waste, while also making markets that improve the quality and safety of health care. We
- [PHA Fraud Forum 2016 - DHF Consultancy Services (Bronze Sponsor)](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/dhf-consultancy-services/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenueBRONZE SPONSOR About DHF Consultancy Services DHF Consultancy Services has been founded by Dr Anders Blomberg BDSc., MDS, FICD, FADI and Dr Mark Dyer BDSc to provide customized Dental Advisory Services to the Private Health Insurance Industry in a timely and efficient manner. DHF Consultancy Services can provide the following services: Dental Advice to
- [PHA Fraud Forum 2016 - Program](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud2016/program/) - HomeSpeakersProgramhomeVenueProgram Day 1: Tuesday 29th November 2016 Start End Topic Speaker 8:30am 8:50am Registration 8:50am 9:00am Welcome Mr Steven Fanner, Private Healthcare Australia 9:00am 10:00am Fraud in Australia: Dimensions, Trends & Prevention Professor Tim Prenzler, Professor at the University of the Sunshine Coast and an Adjunct Professor at Griffith University 10:00am 11:00am Utilising peer review
- [Interview Transcripts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/news/interview-transcripts/) - Ben Harris spoke with ABC Radio Perth about the impact of rebate changes on older people in Western Australia Rachel David spoke ABC radio Cairns about the proposed changes to the health insurance rebate for people over 65 Ben Harris spoke with ABC radio Perth about proposed changes to the health insurance rebate and specialist
- [Media Releases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/news/media-releases/) - Latest media releases New polling reveals strong opposition to the Government’s health insurance rebate cut Private health system reforms must keep health insurance affordable Patient rights and transparency strengthened for private treatment in public hospitals from today Government appears to be flying blind on health insurance rebate cuts for older Australians Same surgery, wildly different
- [Health Funds & Providers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/) - We’ve compiled a series of helpful and relevant information for Health Funds and Providers, including a number of industry forms. local_hospitalFund ResourcesProvider Resources
- [Presenting Illness Codes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/presenting-illness-codes/) - Online Eligibility Presenting Illness List (Version 1.4) - current as at 1/4/2019 The following table contains the current list of presenting illness that can be submitted in the ECLIPSE Online Eligibility Check (OEC). Code OEC Description 301 Minor Gynaecological Surgery 302 Assisted Reproductive services or infertility treatments 303 Pregnancy related services including Obstetrics 304 Eye
- [What do Health Funds promise under the Code?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/codepromise/) - Funds who are signatories to the Code will: work towards improving the standards of practice and service in the private health insurance industry; provide information to you in plain language; promote better informed decisions about their private health insurance products and services by: ensuring that policy documentation is full and complete. providing clear explanations of
- [Links to the Commonwealth Ombudsman and other bodies who can help with consumer enquiries](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/dispute-link/) - If you have a dispute with a health fund you should first take up the matter with the fund in question. If you are not satisfied with the response to a dispute with your fund you have the option of contacting the following bodies in relation to the dispute: Commonwealth Ombudsman Telephone: 1300 362 072
- [From Overseas and Need Health Cover?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/from-overseas-and-need-health-cover/) - If you are visiting Australia and hold a temporary visa you should consider taking out Overseas Visitors Health Cover. If you need to visit a doctor or stay in hospital while you are here you could find yourself responsible for the full cost of treatment, which can be very expensive. Benefits, membership costs and eligibility
- [Federal Budget 2023 – what does it mean for your healthcare?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/federal-budget-2023-what-does-it-mean-for-your-healthcare/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Newsletter-Infographics_Budget-2023_what-does-it-mean-for-your-health-care_A4.pdf" pagetextbox="on" download="off" pageturners="on" toolbar="top" toolbarfixed="on" scrolltotop="on"]
- [Exceptional Drugs List](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/exceptional-drugs-list/) - The Joint NSW Health Funds / Private Hospitals Pharmacy Working Party was initially formed in 1996 to consider issues relating to the provision of pharmaceutical services in private hospitals in NSW, particularly the issue of the Exceptional Drugs List (EDL). Following implementation in NSW the EDL was extended to Queensland. The primary role of the
- [Students](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/from-overseas-and-need-health-cover/cover-for-people-from-overseas-students/) - Overseas Students Health Cover Contact Details PRIVATE HEALTHCARE AUSTRALIA MEMBER FUNDS PHONE NUMBER and EMAIL Internet Address (links below takes you straight to OSHC information) ahm Health Insurance (within Australia): 134 148 (outside Australia): +61 3 9862 1095 Email: oshc@ahm.com.au www.ahmoshc.com.au/ BUPA HI Pty Ltd (within Australia): 1800 888 942 (outside Australia): +61 3 9937 4223 Email: oshc@bupa.com.au www.bupa.com.au/health-insurance/oshc
- [Contact Us](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/codeofconduct/contact-us/) - If you would like to contact the Committee for more information on the Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct, or to ask a question or make a comment, email the address below: Email: code@pha.org.au
- [Prostheses Reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/advocacy/prostheses-reform/) - Medical device funding in Australia needs to change Medical device prices in Australia are the highest in the world. Medical devices used in hip, knee and shoulder surgeries are 30-40% more expensive here than in New Zealand, the UK or France. The Prostheses List sets prices for more than 11,000 items, with no transparency, no
- [Australia needs a fairer prostheses pricing system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/australia-needs-a-fairer-prostheses-pricing-system/) - Medical device funding in Australia needs to change Medical device prices in Australia are the highest in the world. Medical devices used in hip, knee and shoulder surgeries are 30-40% more expensive here than in New Zealand, the UK or France. The Prostheses List sets prices for more than 11,000 items, with no transparency, no
- [Compare health insurance policies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/compare-health-insurance-policies/) - Before selecting a fund and a policy that suits your personal situation and health covers needs, it’s important to review the options available to you. The Australian Government’s Private Health Insurance Ombudsman provides a helpful tool from which you might like to start your health fund and cover research. You can access the Ombudsman website
- [Cookie Policy](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/cookie-policy/) - This site uses cookies - small text files that are placed on your machine to help the site provide a better user experience. In general, cookies are used to retain user preferences, store information for things like shopping carts, and provide anonymised tracking data to third party applications like Google Analytics. As a rule, cookies
- [Private Health Insurance - where to next?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-health-insurance-where-to-next/) - Download the PDF booklet here
- [The New Private Health Insurance Classification System](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/the-new-private-health-insurance-classification-system/) - [pdf-embedder url=”https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/private-health-insurance-classification-system.pdf” pagetextbox=”off” download=”on” pageturners=”off” toolbar=”both” toolbarfixed=”off”]
- [Hospital Treatment Product Tiers - Gold, Silver, Bronze and Basic](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/hospital-treatment-product-tiers-gold-silver-bronze-and-basic/) - [table id=7 automatic_url_conversion=true responsive=collapse datatables_fixedheader=top datatables_fixedheader_offsettop=98 /] Indicates the clinical category is a minimum requirement of the product tier. The clinical category must be covered on an unrestricted basis, covering you as a private patient in a public or private hospital. R Indicates the clinical category is a minimum requirement of the product tier. The
- [Private Health Insurance Community Rating System](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/private-health-insurance-community-rating-system/) - Australia’s private health insurance (PHI) is based on a system of community rating which means that everyone pays the same premium for their health insurance and health funds are prevented from discriminating against members based on health status, age or claims history. This contrasts with other types of insurance such as car and life insurance
- [Useful Health Websites](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/consumers/links/) - Australia Private Health Insurance Private Healthcare Australia - Better Cover. Better Access. Better Care. Department of Health and Ageing PHI Consumer Resources PrivateHealth.gov.au – An Australian Government Initiative HealthDispatch Associations Australian Medical Association (AMA) Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) Members Health Government Australian Parliament House Department of Health and Ageing (DHA) HealthInsite Medicare - Australian
- [Product Reform](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/product-reform/) - Hierarchy of Clinical Category Assignment Medical Diagnosis List by Category Hierarchy of Clinical Category Assignment Download PDF version here Medical Diagnosis List by Category The table below can be referred to check members eligibility for medical admissions. It has only limited examples. Hence in case of doubt, it is advised to refer to corresponding health
- [Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record (PCEHR) System](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/364-2/personally-controlled-electronic-health-record-pcehr-system/) - Overview of the PCEHR System eHealth is an integral part of the Australian Government’s agenda for Health Reform, an agenda that aims to create a continuously improved healthcare system for the 21st century. A system that is accountable, affordable and sustainable, with safety and quality at its centre. The Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record (PCEHR)
- [SITE MAP](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/site-map/)
- [Consumer Transparency](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/past-events/2011-ahia-national-conference/consumer-transparency/) - For 10 years Dr Foster has been providing the public with data on achievements of hospitals against safety and quality standards and producing independent guides to health services in the public and private sectors in the UK. This allows patients to be informed purchasers rather than passive payers of services. At the AHIA2011 Conference -
- [Health and Well Being](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/past-events/2011-ahia-national-conference/health-and-well-being/) - Total Well Being Diet Program The Total Well Being Diet is a health and well being weight management program which is supported by Scientific evidence. At the recent AHIA 2011 Conference, Dr David Kannar and Dr Manny Noakes, from CSIRO, discussed compelling reasons why this program is a positive preventative healthcare initiative for Health Insurers.
- [Demographic Outlook for Health Insurance in Australia in the 2010s](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/past-events/2011-ahia-national-conference/demographic-outlook-for-health-insurance-in-australia-in-the-2010s/) - At the AHIA 2011 Conference, Bernard Salt discussed the demographic outlook for Health Insurance in Australia in the 2010s. Bernard highlighted that increasing life expectancy is creating new stages of the lifecycle and new markets for health insurance and that the boomer and pre-boomer households are the ones that spend most on medical insurance in
- [PHA Claims Leakage and Fraud Workshop 2013](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/pha-claims-leakage-and-fraud-workshop-2013/) - 11th October 2013 Due to the popularity of the Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum, the organising committee have decided to run a workshop in 2013, with a full forum to be held again in 2014. This year the workshop will be held on the 11th October 2013 in Melbourne at: Oaks on Market 60
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2013: Delivering value for your money?](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/private-healthcare-australia-conference-2013-delivering-value-for-your-money/) - The 2013 Conference titled Private Health Insurance: Delivering value for your money? will be addressed by a range of international and local speakers of the highest calibre including Dr Dennis Liotta (USA), Saul Eslake (Economist) and Simon McKeon (Macquarie Bank), Janet Albrechtsen (The Australian), Kate Carnell (beyond blue), along with other key industry leaders. Key
- [2011 AHIA Conference - Shaping The Future](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/all-events/past-events/2011-ahia-national-conference/) - The 2011 AHIA National Conference- Shaping the future: Better Cover, Better Access, Better Care, was held on the 8-10 November 2011, Crown Conference Centre in Melbourne. The conference represented an unparalleled opportunity to hear from experts in a range of fields such as health funding, regulatory environments, improving health outcomes, and, most importantly, the chance
- [Private Healthcare System](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/private-healthcare-system/) - Over 11.7 million Australians are covered by private health insurance. It is a myth that Private Health Insurance is for the rich. Of the 10 million Australians with Hospital Cover: 5.6 million people with private hospital cover live in households with a total annual income of $50,000 or less 3.4 million people with private hospital
- [Common Acute Care Certificate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/common-acute-care-certificate/) - Acute Care Certificates are required to be completed by a doctor for any acute hospital stays over 35 continuous days, and then every 30 days thereafter and submitted to member funds by the hospital. The form is completed to verify the type of patient (i.e acute care or other). Most patients who require stays more
- [Rehabilitation Certificate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/rehab-cert-template/) - Rehabilitation Certificates are required to be completed by the rehabilitation physician in charge of the multidisciplinary team conducting a rehabilitation episode in a hospital. An example of the current Rehabilitation Program Certificate template can be downloaded below: Rehabilitation program certificate template - effective 1 August 2015 (58 KB)
- [Guidelines for Recognition of Private Hospital Based Rehabilitation Services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/provider-resources/guidelines-for-recognition-of-private-hospital-based-rehabilitation-services/) - The Consultative Committee on Private Rehabilitation has reviewed the Guidelines for Recognition of Private Hospital-Based Rehabilitation Services. Click here to download the guidelines (revised edition as at August 2016).
- [PHA Business Standards Committee](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/pha-business-standards-committee/) - Electronic commerce (e-Commerce) promises to be a major factor in enabling the health industry to reduce its operating costs, obtain accurate and timely information for decision making, improve overall effectiveness of business processes and offer a better administrative service to healthcare consumers. E-Commerce is the electronic transfer of commercial or financial information for the purposes
- [eHealth and Electronic Health Records](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/364-2/) - Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) has been working with its member funds through the Industry eHealth Strategy Committee which was formed in 2000 and is a ‘voice’ for the Industry on eHealth. The Committee, reports to the PHA Executive Committee for outcomes to be considered at the National level. The Australian Government is investing $467 million over two years to
- [Private Health Insurance Industry Submission on PCEHR Legislation Paper](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/364-2/private-health-insurance-industry-submission-on-pcehr-legislation-paper/) - 24 August 2011 The Australian Government is establishing electronic health records with the aim of delivering benefits for patients and clinicians across Australia. The personally controlled electronic health record (PCEHR) system is proposed to enable better access to important health information currently held in dispersed records around the country. It will mean that patients will
- [Guidance Notes: AASB 1023 Application](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/guidance-notes-aasb-1023-application/) - From 2005, insurance contracts issued by organisations registered under the National Health Act1953 as Registered Health Benefit Organisations (RHBOs), are required to be treated under Accounting Standard AASB 1023General Insurance Contracts for the purposes of an entity’s financial report required by the Corporations Act or for the purposes of a general purpose financial report. This guidance has been
- [Guidelines for Recognition of Private Hospital Based Rehabilitation Services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/resources/fund-resources/guidelines-for-recognition-of-private-hospital-based-rehabilitation-services/) - The Consultative Committee on Private Rehabilitation has reviewed the Guidelines for Recognition of Private Hospital-Based Rehabilitation Services. Click here to download the guidelines (revised edition as at August 2016).
- [Voluntary Industry Regulation Actually Works: A decade of Measurable Success](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phicode2015/) - The PHI Code of Conduct Code Compliance Committee is hosting a one-day seminar on Tuesday 21 July 2015 at the RACV City Club, 501 Bourke Street Melbourne. The theme and content for the day is as follows: What effect has the Code had on our businesses over time? The most persistent consumers complaints and how
- [Program and Presentations](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/phicode2015/presentations/) - Voluntary Industry Regulation Actually Works: A decade of Measurable Success Date: Tuesday 21st July 2015Venue: RACV City Club, 501 Bourke Street Melbourne Click here to download the program in PDF format. Start End What Who 8:15am 8:45am Registration 8:45am 9:15am Introduction, successes and issues Download presentation (974 KB) Ron Wilson 9:15am 10:45am Panel 1 -
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2015](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/past-events/?y=2015) - Speaker presentations from Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2015, 4-6 March 2015, Adelaide Convention Centre
- [History](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/about-us/history/) - Private Healthcare Australia had its origins on 21 April 1971 when health funds met in Canberra to form the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia Ltd. VHIAA was incorporated on 2 December 1986, taking over the role, functions and assets of the previously unincorporated body which itself represented an industry Association combining the interests of
- [ADVOCACY](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/advocacy/) - [subpages depth="3"]

## Downloads

- [PHA Constitution](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/download/pha-constitution/)

## Media Releases

- [Hands off Private Health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/hands-off-private-health/) - Private Healthcare Australia urges the Rudd Government to leave Private Health Insurance alone as the Government looks to make further spending cuts this week to counter its increasing Budget deficit. PHA Chief Executive, Dr Michael Armitage, said the Government had targeted Private Health Insurance in recent years with changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge, the
- [Private Health Insurance injects $15 billion into the Australian Health System](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-injects-15-billion-into-the-australian-health-system/) - Private Health Insurance has paid $15 billion in benefits on behalf of privately insured Australians in the 12 months to March 2013.
- [Rebate Indexation Increases Public Health Sector Costs](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/rebate-indexation-increases-public-health-sector-costs/) - Government legislation to index the Private Health Insurance Rebate to the CPI will result in a decline in membership, higher premiums and an immediate in increase in public hospital pressure and costs. As part of its submission to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee into the Private Health Insurance Legislation Amendments (Base Premium) Bill 2013,
- [Private Health Insurance now more expensive for 12.5 million Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-now-more-expensive/) - 12.5 million Australians will pay more for their private health cover as a result of Government legislation which passed through the House of Representatives late last night. Changes to the indexation of the Rebate on Private Health Insurance and the removal of the Rebate from the Lifetime Health Cover component of a premium will both
- [Private Health Funds to pay $15.5 billion in benefits in 2012-13](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-funds-to-pay-15-5-billion-in-benefits-in-2012-13/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1.3 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2012‐13
- [PHA Statement regarding MYEFO’s Private Health Insurance measures](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/statement-from-private-healthcare-australia-chief-executive-dr-michael-armitage-regarding-myefos-private-health-insurance-measures/) - “The Minister has identified that there are a number of issues to discuss before changes to the method of indexing the Private Health Insurance Rebate come into play in 12 months time. “One issue which will need to be considered is the fact that health inflation runs at a figure significantly higher than the Consumer
- [High Claims Payments Hits Record High of $3.8 billion in 2011](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/high-claims-payments-hits-record-high-of-3-8-billion-in-2011/) - Private Health Funds paid 169,825 claims in 2011 where the benefit payment for hospitalisation was in excess of $10k
- [Public and Private Health Hurt by Rebate Cuts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/public-and-private-health-hurt-by-rebate-cuts/) - Private Healthcare Australia warns that an uncertain period lies ahead for Australia’s health system.
- [Government Means Testing Modelling Flawed](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/government-means-testing-modelling-flawed/) - An independent report released today exposes flawed Treasury modelling in relation to the Government’s proposal to means-testing the 30% Rebate on Private Health Insurance. “Members of Parliament still making up their minds on this important issue need to realise that the Treasury figures on which the Government is relying are fanciful and should not be
- [Senate Rejects MLS Threshold Bill](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/senate-rejects-mls-threshold-bill/) - “The Senate’s rejection of the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) Threshold Bill is a sensible decision which will ensure Australia’s balanced public/private health system is maintained,” AHIA CEO Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said today. . “It’s good news for Australian health care; for people on public waiting lists who won’t be affected by an influx of
- [Private Funds Welcome Minister Roxon's Response to Doyle Prosthesis Review](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-funds-welcome-minister-roxons-response-to-doyle-prosthesis-review/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed Health Minister Nicola Roxon’s response to the Doyle Review of Prosthesis Listing Arrangements. AHIA CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said the Minister’s decision to endorse 6 of the 14 recommendations of the Review was reasonable and consistent with the Private Health Insurance Industry’s assessment of the Doyle
- [Medicare Levy Surcharge Changest to Hit Pensioners Hardest: Up to $126 Increase In Private Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/medicare-levy-surcharge-changest-to-hit-pensioners-hardest-up-to-126-increase-in-private-health-insurance-premiums/) - The Senate is today considering the Rudd Government’s proposed increases to the Medicare Levy Surcharge thresholds. “If the Senate passes this legislation, the result will be a devastating increase in premiums for pensioners, for low income earners and especially for families,” said the CEO of the Australian Health Insurance Association, (AHIA), Dr Michael Armitage. “The
- [Private Health Funds Pay a Record $10 Billion on behalf of members](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-funds-pay-a-record-10-billion-on-behalf-of-members/) - Australia’s Private Health Insurance Funds paid more than $10 billion in benefits to members during the last financial year, setting records in all payment categories. The $10,060,034,811 injected into the health care system by private health funds in 2007-08 represents a 10.4% increase in benefits paid during the previous year. This percentage increase in benefits
- [More Than 1,000 Extra Public Hospital Beds Needed Under MLS Change](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/more-than-1000-extra-public-hospital-beds-needed-under-mls-change/) - Australia’s public hospital system will need more than 1000 additional beds to cope with the influx of patients who will rely on the public sector if the Rudd Government’s proposed Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) changes are passed by the Senate this week. AHIA CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said State and Territory Governments would not
- [Senate Confirms Longer Waiting Lists, Higher Premiums As a Result Of Medicare Levy Surcharge Changes](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/senate-confirms-longer-waiting-lists-higher-premiums-as-a-result-of-medicare-levy-surcharge-changes/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed the release of the Senate Economics Committee’s Report into the Tax Laws Amendment (Medicare Levy Surcharge Thresholds) Bill 2008. “The Senate’s Report confirms that the proposed changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge thresholds will result in longer waiting lists for public hospitals and higher private health insurance
- [Private Funds Welcome Minister Roxon's Commitment To Measure Hospital Performance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-funds-welcome-minister-roxons-commitment-to-measure-hospital-performance/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed the announcement by the Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Hon. Nicola Roxon, that all hospitals – both public and private – will be benchmarked through the introduction of performance measures. “Minister Roxon’s announcement today is an important first step in addressing quality and safety issues in
- [Rudd Government Needs To Guarantee 30% Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/rudd-government-needs-to-guarantee-30-rebate/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today called on the Rudd Labor Government to reconfirm its commitment to the 30% Rebate on private health insurance and Lifetime Health Cover. This follows the release of an ACT Labor Government submission to the Rudd Government’s National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission (NHHRC) which supports the abolition of
- [Record Private Health Insurance Membership Keeping Pressure Off Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/record-private-health-insurance-membership-keeping-pressure-off-public-hospitals/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed the release of figures which show that a record 10.9 million Australians held private health insurance membership at the end of June 2008. AHIA CEO, Dr Michael Armitage, said the release of the Private Health Insurance Administration Council’s (PHIAC) June 2008 quarter statistics demonstrates the importance of
- [AHIA Calls for Prostheses Listing Overhaul](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/ahia-calls-for-prostheses-listing-overhaul/) - The Australian Private Health Industry’s peak representative body is calling on the Federal Government to overhaul the listing arrangements for surgically implanted prostheses immediately, allowing only one prosthesis per billing code. The Australian Health Insurance Association says current arrangements enable medical suppliers to place more than one prosthesis on one billing code. “When this occurs,
- [AHIA Survey Shows Increase In High Claims Under 30s](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/ahia-survey-shows-increase-in-high-claims-under-30s/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association’s annual High Claims Survey* has revealed an increase of more than 8 percent in the number of high claims paid for people under 30 years of age during 2007. AHIA CEO, Hon Dr Michael Armitage said the survey was further evidence that young Australians did use their private health insurance
- [Treasury Figures Show An Additional 900,000 Australians Will Rely On The Public Hospital Sector](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/treasury-figures-show-an-additional-900000-australians-will-rely-on-the-public-hospital-sector/) - The AHIA has released a paper detailing the impact of the Federal Government decision to modify the Medicare Levy Surcharge Thresholds. Australian Health Insurance Association Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage said the AHIA was keen to ensure all parties – Government, health professionals and consumers – had access to factual information about the impact
- [PHI Membership Could Take a SWAN Dive!!!](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/phi-membership-could-take-a-swan-dive/) - The number of Australians taking out Private Health Insurance has increased by almost 100,000 during the March 2008 quarter, but the Industry’s peak body (AHIA) has warned that Government changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge threshold will reverse recent gains, adding hundreds of thousands to the public hospital system. Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC)
- [Hundreds Of Thousands To Join Public Hospital Waiting Lists](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/hundreds-of-thousands-to-join-public-hospital-waiting-lists/) - Hundreds of thousands of Australians will now rely on public hospital waiting lists as a result of the Rudd Government’s decision to lift the Medicare Levy Surcharge threshold, AHIA CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said today. AHIA research conducted late last year found that about 2% of current members would drop Private Health Insurance (PHI)
- [AHIA Challenges AMA on Opposition to Transparency and Accountability](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/ahia-challenges-ama-on-opposition-to-transparency-and-accountability/) - The Australian Private Health Fund Industry’s peak body says the Australian Medical Association should back plans to publish data on hospital and Doctor performance, including matters such as hospital-acquired infections, readmission and mortality rates. Speaking at the 4th Annual E-Health Research Colloquim in Brisbane today, the CEO of the AHIA, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said
- [Private Health Insurers Warn on Hospital Segregation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurers-warn-on-hospital-segregation/) - The Australian Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body has warned that any plan to segregate Privately Insured patients from uninsured patients in the NSW hospital system would threaten the tenets of Medicare. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said Medicare’s objective was to ensure all Australians have access to free or
- [Private Health Insurance Backs National Medical Registration](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-backs-national-medical-registration/) - The Australian Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body has welcomed moves to give consumers access to information about the performance of medical practitioners and hospitals. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said the AHIA also supported a system of National Registration because of the contribution it would make to improving patient
- [Private Health Funds to inject more than $10 billion into Health Care in 2008](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-funds-to-inject-more-than-10-billion-into-health-care-in-2008/) - Australia’s Private Health Insurance Industry is expected to inject more than $10 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2008. Reflecting the increasing cost of health care in Australia, the Health Minister Nicola Roxon today announced that PHI premiums would increase by an average of 4.99% from April 2008. The premium increase is necessary to
- [Young Australians Sign Up to PHI in Record Numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/young-australians-sign-up-to-phi-in-record-numbers/) - Young Australians are taking out Private Health Insurance in record numbers with the latest statistics showing an additional 155,763 persons under the age of 30 joined health funds during 2007. Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) figures released today show that the proportion of the Australian population taking out PHI continued to rise in the
- [Medicare Levy Surcharge](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/medicare-levy-surcharge/) - “The compromise reached in the Senate on the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) Threshold Bill is an improvement on the Government’s original proposal and it is recognition that maintaining a balance between public and private health is crucial to the future of Australian health care,” AHIA CEO Hon Dr Michael Armitage said today. “In recent months
- [AHIA Conference 2008 – Health Care: Making the Case for Quality](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/ahia-conference-2008-health-care-making-the-case-for-quality/) - Private health Funds from across Australia have gathered in Sydney for the Australian Health Insurance Association’s annual two day conference, opened this morning by Health Minister Nicola Roxon. AHIA CEO, Dr Michael Armitage said the Industry welcomed the Minister’s announcement to extend arrangements enabling young adults up to the age of 25 to remain covered
- [Private Health Fund Fraud under Investigation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-fund-fraud-under-investigation/) - Private Health Funds, with the cooperation of some provider associations, are targeting fraudulent ancillary healthcare providers in a bid to keep premium increases to a minimum for health fund members. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said that while fraudulent activity among health care providers was not widespread, it did contribute
- [More Than 11 Million Australians Privately Insured](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/more-than-11-million-australians-privately-insured/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) has welcomed the release of figures today showing that more than 11 million Australians held some form of Private Health Insurance membership at the end of September 2008. The release of the Private Health Insurance Administration Council’s (PHIAC) September 2008 quarter statistics shows that PHI membership increased for both
- [National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/national-health-and-hospitals-reform-commission/) - The National Health and Hospital Reform Commission’s interim report must recognise the efficiency of the private health sector in Australia and encourage growth in this sector as a priority. The Australian Health Insurance Association’s Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Dr Michael Armitage said the Commission should acknowledge the important role of the private sector in relieving
- [Government Confused on PHI Numbers](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/government-confused-on-phi-numbers/) - The CEO of the Australian Health Insurance Association, Dr Michael Armitage, says Government efforts to justify the dismantling of the Private Health Members’ Rebate by citing a growth in Private Health Insurance Membership are misleading. Dr Armitage says ongoing growth in membership reported in PHIAC’s Private Health Insurance Annual Report 2008-09, demonstrates the value Australians
- [“No, Minister”](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/no-minister/) - Private health insurance plays an important part in delivering Australians access to world-class care. Last year private health funds paid $12.4 billion in benefits towards the healthcare of the 11.7 million Australians with private health cover. By proposing to means-test the 30% Rebate, the Minister for Health and Ageing will make healthcare less affordable for all Australians, and by her own admission, add more pressure to our public hospitals.
- [Means testing will Hurt Health Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/means-testing-will-hurt-health-care/) - The growth in the Private Health Insurance sector should send a signal to Government that Private Health Insurance is popular in the electorate; that the system is working; and the Government should maintain the existing Rebate and other incentives to keep Australia’s health system in balance. The Government has made a number of wildly incorrect
- [MyHospitals Website Update Welcomed](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/myhospitals-website-update-welcomed/) - The Chief Executive of the Australian Health Insurance Association, Dr Michael Armitage today welcomed the Government’s decision to publish hospital acquired infection rates on the MyHospitals website as an important step towards improving health outcomes for all Australians. He congratulated the Government on moving towards greater transparency, in a move which he said “will be
- [Australians Value Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/australians-value-private-health-insurance/) - More and more Australians are taking out Private Health Insurance because they value freedom of choice, their right to a choice of doctor, hospital and timing of their surgery. The CEO of the AHIA, Dr Michael Armitage said the fact that more than 12 million Australians have some form of private health insurance reflects a
- [Private Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-premiums-2/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2010-11 bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $12 billion. Today’s premium adjustment by Health Minister Nicola Roxon acknowledges the increasing cost of health care and identifies an expected increase of 7.94% in expenditure by
- [Private Health Insurance Funds Welcome Hospital Ranking](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-funds-welcome-hospital-ranking/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) is very supportive of any plans by the Rudd Government to publish information on the performance of our hospitals. Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, said the AHIA had long been advocating for improved transparency on the basis that international studies show the publication of information on individual hospitals
- [High Claims Total $2.7billion](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/high-claims-total-2-7billion/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association’s Annual High Claims Survey – hospital claims exceeding $10,000 - found that the number of high claims for 2009 increased by 4,000 (3.2%) and the cost of those high claims increased by $120 million (4.7% ) on the previous 12 months. The total benefits paid for all high claims reached
- [Health reform must include reporting on hospital and provider performance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/health-reform-must-include-reporting-on-hospital-and-provider-performance/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) today welcomed and endorsed the Australian Government’s plan to introduce performance standards for all hospitals as part of its proposed National Health and Hospitals Network. In addition, the AHIA indicated that the Government should also ensure the reporting of performance standards for all providers. “Genuine reform of the health
- [PHI Membership Keeps Pressure off Public Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/phi-membership-keeps-pressure-off-public-hospitals/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) has welcomed figures released by PHIAC today which show an increase in the number of privately insured Australians for the March 2010 quarter. AHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, said that while the increase of 0.7% in both Hospital and General Treatment cover membership was good news and
- [Greens Health Policy Ignores Benefits of Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/greens-health-policy-ignores-benefits-of-private-health-insurance-rebate/) - The Australian Greens’ policy to abolish the Private Health Insurance Rebate will increase public hospital waiting lists and increase the cost of Private Health Fund membership. Claims by Greens Leader Senator Bob Brown today that the Greens would abolish the Rebate to fund a Denticare scheme, and at the same time reduce health system costs
- [Labor-Greens Agreement Threatens Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/labor-greens-agreement-threatens-private-health-insurance/) - The Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body, the Australian Health Insurance Association, says premiums for 11.6 million Australians will rise by a minimum of 43% if the Private Health Insurance Rebate is abolished as a result of the Labor-Greens agreement announced today. The Chief Executive Officer of the AHIA, Dr Michael Armitage, has written to
- [Private Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-premiums/) - Private Health Funds are forecast to inject an additional $1.1 billion into Australia’s health care system in 2011‐12, bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $13 billion. Health Minister Nicola Roxon today announced an average premium increase of 5.57 per cent reflecting the increasing cost of health care in Australia.
- [Swan’s Assault on Private Health Hurts Older Australians](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/swans-assault-on-private-health-hurts-older-australians/) - The Private Health Insurance Industry’s peak body, the Australian Health Insurance Association, says the new Intergenerational Report demonstrates more than ever the importance of retaining the Private Health Members’ Rebate. AHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage, said the Rudd Government was drawing illogical conclusions from the Intergenerational Report. “The Australian population is ageing and
- [AHIA 2009 Conference - Private Health Insurance: Investing in the Future](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/ahia-2009-conference-private-health-insurance-investing-in-the-future/) - The future of Private Health Insurance in Australia, the implementation of Clinical Guidelines in patient treatment and the non‐payment of “Never Events” will be key topics at the Australian Health Insurance Association’s (AHIA) 2009 Conference in Melbourne this week. AHIA CEO Dr Michael Armitage said the 2009 Conference, Private Health Insurance: Investing in the Future,
- [Private Health – A Safer Option](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-a-safer-option/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association says the Productivity Commission’s Draft Report provides further evidence that the Government’s proposal to dismantle the 30% Rebate is flawed public policy. The Draft Report supports calls from the vast majority of health and consumer organisations for the Government to continue to support the private health sector and give all
- [Clinically Equivalent “No-Gap” Prostheses](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/clinically-equivalent-no-gap-prostheses/) - The medical device manufacturing industry is causing unnecessary concern among Australia’s private insured patients over changes to the August 2009 Prostheses List, the Australian Health Insurance Association’s CEO, Dr Michael Armitage said. “The Medical Technology Association (MTAA) repeatedly blames private health insurers for the gap payments on prostheses when in fact the gaps are a
- [Senate Report Ignores the Facts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/senate-report-ignores-the-facts/) - The Senate Community Affairs Committee Report into the Fairer Private Health Insurance Incentives Bill, 2009, predictably ignores the impact which means-testing the 30% Rebate will have on people downgrading their private health insurance. AHIA CEO, Dr Michael Armitage, said the Government Senators’ Report quotes the “usual suspects”, who have long sought to abolish any incentives
- [Forcing More Australians Onto Public Hospital Waiting Lists Is Not An "Insignificant" Matter](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/forcing-more-australians-onto-public-hospital-waiting-lists/) - In introducing legislation into the Parliament this morning to means-test the 30% Rebate on private health insurance, the Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon, has admitted that her policy will force more Australians onto public hospital waiting lists. “Labor has conceded that it’s plan to dismantle the 30% Rebate will result in more Australians
- [Almost one million drop or downgrade PHI cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/almost-one-million-drop-or-downgrade-phi-cover/) - Up to one million Australians would be likely to drop or downgrade their Private Health Insurance under the Rudd Government’s proposal to dismantle the 30% rebate. AHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Armitage said an analysis of Federal Budget figures, Industry data and research conducted by Roy Morgan Market Research and IPSOS Research revealed that
- [200,000 Extra Australians Now Relying On Public Hospitals For Care](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/200000-extra-australians-now-relying-on-public-hospitals-for-care/) - The release of official private health membership figures yesterday shows that 200,000 Australians have been discouraged from joining Private Health Insurance by the Medicare Levy Surcharge changes announced in last year’s budget. “The Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) - the independent regulator of the private health system - figures show that the proportion of
- [Rudd Abandons Private Health](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/rudd-abandons-private-health/) - The Rudd Government’s decision to dismantle the private health insurance rebate will place increased pressure on the public hospital system and force up premiums for those Australians who take responsibility for their own health care by taking out private health cover. Every single one of the more than 11 million Australians with Private Health Insurance
- [Statement from AHIA regarding speculation the Rudd Government plans to dismantle the Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/statement-from-ahia-regarding-speculation-the-rudd-government-plans-to-dismantle-the-private-health-insurance-rebate/) - If the story appearing in today's Australian is correct, the Rudd government looks set to dismantle the 30% Rebate. This is despite the fact that Labor promised the voters at the 2007 election that they would maintain the existing private health insurance rebates. Such a move to undermine the private health rebate would be bad
- [High Claims in 2008 top $2.6 billion](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/high-claims-in-2008-top-2-6-billion/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association’s Annual High Claims Survey has found that the number of “High Claims” – claims exceeding $10,000 – increased in 2008 by 11.6 percent on the previous year. The cost of all High Claims in 2008 increased by 18% compared with the previous year, with benefits paid exceeding $2.6 billion. This
- [More than $11 billion into Health Care from Private Funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/more-than-11-billion-into-health-care-from-private-funds/) - Private Health Insurance Funds will inject an additional $950 million into Australia’s health care system in 2009 bringing total expenditure on private health treatments to more than $11 billion. The premium increase of 6.02 percent announced today by Health Minister Nicola Roxon is necessary to ensure funds can continue to pay for the increasing cost
- [Private Health Insurance On The Increase](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/private-health-insurance-on-the-increase/) - The percentage of the Australian population with Private Health Insurance (PHI) is continuing to increase with latest figures showing that more 11.1 million Australians (52%) were insured at the end of the December 2008 quarter. The Australian Health Insurance Association (AHIA) has welcomed the Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) figures saying it is further
- [Means-testing affects entire Australian health system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/media_releases/means-testing-affects-entire-australian-health-system/) - A new Report into the impact of the Government’s policy to means-test the 30% Rebate on Private Health Insurance has concluded that the policy will have a negative impact across the entire Australian health system.

## Submissions

- [2022 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2022-submissions/) - Response to the Private Health Insurance Actuarial Study into Risk Equalisation - December 2022 Response to the legislative amendments to the Private Health Insurance legislation - November 2022 Response to the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport Inquiry into Long COVID and Repeated COVID Infections - November 2022 Response to the Pathways for
- [2025 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2025-submissions/) - Hospital treatment classification for intravitreal eye injections - December 2025 Draft Pricing Framework for Australian Private Hospital Services - November 2025 Health impacts of alcohol and other drugs in Australia - November 2025 Medicare Benefits Schedule Review Advisory Committee - Vascular Interventional Radiology (VIR) Draft Report - October 2025 Type C delisting - October 2025
- [2026 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2026-submissions/) - Honeysuckle Health Buying Group: request for authorisation AA1000733 - July 2026 Online Prescribing Services: Sharing medicines-related information to My Health Record by Default - July 2026 Calvary Health Care’s proposed acquisition of Hobart Private Hospital - June 2026 Biomodels and surgical guides - Prescribed List draft determination - June 2026 Health Legislation Amendment (Improving Choice
- [2019 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2019-submissions/) - PHA Pre-Budget Submission 2020-21 - December 2019 PHA Pre-Budget Submission 2019-20 - February 2019
- [2020 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2020-submissions/) - PHA Pre-Budget Submission 2020-21 – July 2020 Update - July 2020
- [2021 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2021-submissions/) - PHA submission to the Department of Health’s Prostheses List Reforms Consultation Paper 1: Prostheses List – purpose, definition and scope - September 2021 Paying for consumable items that are coming off the Prostheses List in February 2022 - August 2021 General Miscellaneous demand movement with examples and new groups - August 2021 PHA Pre-Budget Submission
- [2023 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2023-submissions/) - Submission to the COVID-19 Response Inquiry - December 2023 Modernising the ‘Assignment of Benefit’ process for simplified billing - December 2023 Modernising My Health Record - Sharing pathology and diagnostic imaging reports by default and removing consumer access delays - October 2023 NSW Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding - October 2023 Response to
- [2024 Submissions](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/submissions/2024-submissions/) - Hospital treatment classification for MBS item for intravitreal eye injections fact sheet - December 2024 Medicare Safety Net Reform - November 2024 Response to the review of the use of the title ‘oral surgeon’ - November 2024 Response to the Proposed change to the protected title for the specialty of podiatric surgery - November 2024

## Research

- [Impact of Means Testing the Private Health Insurance Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/research/impact-of-means-testing-the-private-health-insurance-rebate/) - ANOP Research Services Pty Ltd was commissioned by the Australian Health Insurance Association to conduct a detailed survey of the private health insurance
- [Economic Impact Assessment of the Proposed Reforms to Private Health Insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/research/economic-impact-assessment-of-the-proposed-reforms-to-private-health-insurance/) - Deloitte was engaged by the Australian Health Insurance Association to conduct analysis considering the potential economic impacts of introducing a means test on the 30% rebate on private health insurance.

## Events

- [AHIA National Conference 2005](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2005/) - Click here to download the full detailed program. (1.33 MB PDF) AHIA National Conference 2005 The Pathway to Sustainable Affordability 8-10 November 2005 The AHIA 2005 Conference considered the future of Health Insurance in Australia and the increasing challenges faced by health funds to provide an affordable and quality product to the consumer. Issues that
- [AHIA National Conference 2006](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2006/) - Click here to download the full detailed program. AHIA National Conference 2006 Stretching The Boundaries Private Health Insurance Reforms: Opportunities and Challenges 31st October - 2 November 2006 Conference Presentations Click on each of the speaker’s name below to download their presentations in Powerpoint version. Presentation downloads are available for all invited speakers that have
- [AHIA National Conference 2007](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2007/) - The Annual Conference of the Australian Health Insurance Association will explore ways in which Private Health Care will be provided a decade from now, in an “Over the Horizon” scan of the challenges ahead. Key issues include the future health needs and demands of the Australian community, the burgeoning capabilities and price of Technology, the opportunity for improved care with a focus on Quality and Safety, and the future forms the Industry itself may take over the next decade.
- [AHIA National Conference 2008](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2008/) - [includeme file="wp-content/themes/Impreza/pha2008conference.html"]
- [AHIA National Conference 2009](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2009/) - A broad and thought-provoking Conference Program has been created to encompass the theme of "Private Health Insurance: Investing In The Future".
- [AHIA National Conference 2010](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2010/) - The Australian Health Insurance Association Annual Conference for 2010 promises to provoke positive discussion about ways in which the Industry can influence Health Outcomes for all Australians, because of the interdependent nature of the Private and Public systems.
- [AHIA National Conference 2011](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/ahia-national-conference-2011/) - The 2011 AHIA National Conference- Shaping the future: Better Cover, Better Access, Better Care, was held on the 8-10 November 2011, Crown Conference Centre in Melbourne. The conference represented an unparalleled opportunity to hear from experts in a range of fields such as health funding, regulatory environments, improving health outcomes, and, most importantly, the chance to share insights and ideas with your peers in the sector.
- [PHA National Conference 2012](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/pha-national-conference-2012/) - The 2012 Private Healthcare Australia National Conference - Private Healthcare: Better Value, was held on the 14-15 November 2012, Park Hyatt in Melbourne. The year 2012 was a particularly significant one for the Private Health Insurance Industry. We have had legislative issues with which to deal; the community had been severely impacted by economic realities,
- [PHA Claims Leakage and Fraud Workshop 2013](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/claims-leakage-and-fraud-workshop-2013/) - Due to the popularity of the Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum, the organising committee decided to run a workshop in 2013, with a full forum to be held again in 2014. This year the workshop was held on 11th October 2013 in Melbourne at Oaks on Market. The focus of this workshop was: Dental Employee
- [PHA Conference 2013](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/pha-conference-2013/) - Click here to download the PHA Conference 2013 Program. (522 KB) The 2013 Conference titled Private Health Insurance: Delivering value for your money? was addressed by a range of international and local speakers of the highest calibre including Saul Eslake (Economist), Simon McKeon (Macquarie Bank), Janet Albrechtsen (The Australian), Kate Carnell (beyondblue), Dr Steve Pearson
- [Private Healthcare Australia Conference 2015](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/events/pha-conference-2015/) - The 2015 Annual Conference of Private Healthcare Australia, "Private Health Insurance: The Best Care at the Right Price", was held in Adelaide on March 4, 5 and 6

## Interviews

- [Take Action to Save Your Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/take-action-to-save-your-rebate/) - Private Healthcare Australia CEO Dr Michael Armitage has called on privately insured Australians to contact their Coalition Member of Parliament and ask for a commitment to restore the Rebate during their first term of Government, if they are elected on 14 September 2013…..
- [Increase in health premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/increase-in-health-premiums/) - CEO of Private Healthcare Australia Dr Michael Armitage explains that the 5.6% increase in health premiums helps cover the increase in several healthcare costs which far exceed this amount.
- [Pre-Payment of premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/pre-payment-of-premiums/) - The end of the financial year is a busy time for many people, and this year there's something else to add to the mix: private health insurance. New rules come into effect at the start of July which could affect the amount you pay.
- [Dr Michael Armitage talks to 4BC re Federal Government plan to wipe out part of Private Health Insurance Subsidy](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/dr-michael-armitage-talks-to-4bc-re-federal-government-plan-to-wipe-out-part-of-private-health-insurance-subsidy/) - Michael Armitage, the Chief Executive of the Australian Health Insurance Association, says a report has shown that the Federal Government's new plan to wipe out part of the subsidy for private health insurance will increase the average waiting time in the public sector from 65 days to 259 days. He argues that by paying for private health insurance, he creates shorter queues in the public health system for those who can't afford to go private.
- [Dr Armitage talks to 2UE to discuss  the flawed figures on which the Government has based its decision to Means Test the Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/dr-armitage-talks-to-2ue-to-discuss-the-flawed-figures-on-which-the-government-has-based-its-decision-to-means-test-the-rebate-2/) - Dr Armitage says the figures on which the Government has based its decision to means test the health insurance rebate are flawed.
- [Importance of Keeping Your General Treatment Cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/importance-of-keeping-your-general-treatment-cover/) - Doctor Michael Armitage, Chief Executive, Private Healthcare Australia says they are seeing that people regard the whole package as important, with people having both hospital and general cover.
- [Dr Michael Armitage talks to 2UE Re Government plans to remove Private Health Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/interviews/dr-michael-armitage-talks-to-2ue-regarding-government-plans-to-remove-private-health-rebate/) - Michael Armitage of the Australian Health Insurance Association talks about the Federal Government's plans to remove the private health rebate.Interviewees: Michael Armitage, Australian Health Insurance Association

## Fraud Forum Presentations

- [Private Health Insurance Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2015](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud_presentations/private-health-insurance-claims-leakage-and-fraud-forum-2015/) - Program Click here to download the PHA Fraud Forum 2015 Program. (1.17 MB) Speakers, Biographies & Presentations Hon Dr Michael Armitage, Chief Executive Officer, Private Healthcare Australia Dr Armitage is the Chief Executive Officer of Private Healthcare Australia (formerly AHIA), the peak body representing health funds in Australia. Dr Armitage was a Member of the
- [Private Health Insurance Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2012](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud_presentations/private-health-insurance-claims-leakage-and-fraud-forum-2012/) - Program Program (303 KB) Presentations Session 1 - Medical & Hospital Patient Care (Day 1) 01 - Conference opening & launch of PHA Fraud portal and Fraud awards (288 KB)Hon Dr Michael Armitage, CEO Private Healthcare Australia 02 - Inpatient hospital and medical fraud in the U.S. and appropriate fraud prevention/minimisation solutions (2.57 MB)Prof Malcolm
- [Private Health Insurance Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2010](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud_presentations/fraud-forum-2010/) - Program and Bios Information Brochure (2.14 MB) Presentations Day 1 01 - Conference Opening (Armitage).pptx (1.61 MB) 02 - Using technology to prevent and detect billing and claims fraud (Collins).ppt (10.19 MB) 03a - Simplified Billing and ECLIPSE - An Overview (Pillai).ppt (643.50 KB) 03b - ECLIPSE (Lawrence).ppt (715.50 KB) 04 - Managing Hospital Claims
- [Private Health Insurance Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2008](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud_presentations/fraud-forum-2008/) - Program and Bios Information Brochure (764.91 KB) Presentations Day 1 01 - Conference Opening (Armitage).ppt (1.65 MB) 02 - Medical Insurance Fraud - United Kingdom (Peck).ppt (2.53 MB) 03 - Being Intelligence-Led - Medicare Australia Compliance Model (Quarmby).ppt (1.46 MB) 04 - Hospital Speaker - A moment in the life of a Zoo keeper
- [Private Health Insurance Claims Leakage and Fraud Forum 2007](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/fraud_presentations/fraud-forum-2007/) - Program and Bios Information Brochure (491.14 KB) Presentations Day 1 01 - Private Health Insurance - Claims Leakage & Fraud Forum - Armitage.ppt (204.50 KB) 02 - Measurement of PHI Leakage - Douman.ppt (1 MB) 03 - Outsourcing for the Future - Joyce.ppt (210.50 KB) 04 - ECS Identification of Fraud - Stubbs.ppt (3.38

## NHCAA Presentations

- [NHCAA 2012 Annual Training Conference Presentations](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/nhcaa_presentations/nhcaa-2012/) - 2012 NHCAA Annual Training Conference Materials NHCAA Global Fraud Schemes - Issues Seen in Claims from Europe - 26th April 2012 (6.75 MB)Ted Doyle, Vice President - Fraud Analytics Client & Industry Innovation
- [NHCAA 2011 Annual Training Conference Presentations](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/nhcaa_presentations/nhcaa-2011/) - 2011 NHCAA Annual Training Conference Materials Keynote Presentation Jim Gee Ethics for the Health Care Investigator Kirk J. Nahra Darrell Langlois WEDNESDAY 9:15 am - 10:30 am 9:15 am Diagnostic Procedures & Clinical Modalities across Sub-Specialties Location: Regency VI John S. Yao, MD, MPH, MBA, MPA, FACP Track: Clinical Issues for the Health Care Fraud

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/uncategorized/)
- [Media Releases](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/media-releases/)
- [Interviews and Transcripts](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/interviews-and-transcripts/)
- [submissions-archive](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/submissions-archive/)
- [Why Private Health Insurance Matters](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/why-private-health-insurance-matters/)
- [Policy & Research](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/policy-research/)
- [GT service schedules](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/gt-service-schedules/)
- [COVID-19 Give Back](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/covid-19-give-back/)
- [PHI and Private Hospitals](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/phi-and-private-hospitals/)
- [Taxes & Levies](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/taxes-and-levies/)
- [Opinion pieces](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/category/opinion-pieces/)

## Tags

- [membership](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/membership/)
- [coverage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/coverage/)
- [private health insurance](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/private-health-insurance/)
- [hospital cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/hospital-cover/)
- [general treatment cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/general-treatment-cover/)
- [Type of cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/type-of-cover/)
- [hospital services](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/hospital-services/)
- [Means Test](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/means-test/)
- [30% Rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/30-rebate/)
- [Deloitte Report](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/deloitte-report/)
- [ANOP/Newspoll](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/anopnewspoll/)
- [private healthcare system](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/private-healthcare-system/)
- [community rating](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/community-rating/)
- [health funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/health-funds/)
- [AHIA member fund](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/ahia-member-fund/)
- [health cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/health-cover/)
- [Dr Michael Armitage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/dr-michael-armitage/)
- [PHIAC](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/phiac/)
- [Private Healthcare Australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/private-healthcare-australia/)
- [PHA](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/pha/)
- [private health insurance australia](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/private-health-insurance-australia/)
- [Michael Armitage](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/michael-armitage/)
- [private health cover](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/private-health-cover/)
- [premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/premiums/)
- [Booz & Co](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/booz-co/)
- [rebate](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/rebate/)
- [2UE](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/2ue/)
- [Health Insurance Premiums](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/health-insurance-premiums/)
- [risk equalisation](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/risk-equalisation/)
- [latestnews](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/latestnews/)
- [Rachel David](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/rachel-david/)
- [Dr Rachel David](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/dr-rachel-david/)
- [CEO](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/ceo/)
- [new CEO](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/tag/new-ceo/)

## Tags

- [2015](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2015/)
- [2013](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2013/)
- [2012](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2012/)
- [2011](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2011/)
- [2010](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2010/)
- [2009](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2009/)
- [2008](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2008/)
- [2007](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2007/)
- [2006](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2006/)
- [2005](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/document-tag/2005/)

## Categories

- [PHA Member Funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/logooocategory/pha-member-funds/)
- [PHI Code of Conduct Funds](https://privatehealthcareaustralia.org.au/logooocategory/phi-code-of-conduct-funds/)