Bupa helping keep health insurance affordable and accessible

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director, Chris Carroll, said: “With the ongoing cost of living challenges Australians are facing, we know that many household budgets remain under real pressure.

“We want our members to know we’re working hard to help ensure they continue to have access to affordable and high-quality healthcare. Bupa’s premium adjustment this year is lower than inflation and less than rising healthcare costs.

“We know every dollar helps and that’s why we’ve given back $1.35 billion to our customers through cashbacks and premium deferrals.”

In 2023, Bupa paid out $6.15 billion in hospital and ancillary claims across its domestic and international portfolios, among the highest of major health insurers in Australia.

Mr Carroll said Bupa’s priority continued to be delivering value to its members with minimal out-of-pocket costs and new products and services. This includes free dental fillings and check-ups through its Members First Ultimate Network, free access to mental health program This Way Up, piloting 24/7 telehealth consultations through our Blua platform to our regional and rural customers and dependants staying on their parents’ policy until they turn 32.

“We’re continuing to work collaboratively with our partners to maintain one of the largest hospital networks of any fund in Australia. We want to help keep costs low for our customers while supporting new, innovative models of care, including rehab in the home and digital health programs,” he said.

“Private health insurance continues to play a vital role in helping to protect the sustainability of Australia’s public health system, taking pressure off our public hospitals and creating more choice for patients.”

Bupa customers will be contacted about their individual premium adjustments which can vary depending on the type of cover and what state they reside in.

“Now is also a good time to review your policy, and we encourage our customers to have a conversation with us to ensure they’re on the best product to suit both their budget and their health and wellbeing needs,” he said.

“We also have support options available for customers suffering from financial hardship, and we can work with them to be assessed and find the best solution for their situation.”

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