26
March
2020
|
10:55
Australia/Melbourne

Bupa to provide more than $50m for customers suffering financial hardship

 

Update 29 March 2020: Bupa delays premium increase for all customers​. See more here.

 

Summary

All members with hospital cover to be backed for COVID-19 treatment.

Australia’s largest health insurer, Bupa, announced today that it will provide more than $50m in assistance for customers suffering financial hardship due to COVID-19.

Bupa has also confirmed that all customers with a hospital policy would be covered for COVID-19 related claims, irrespective of the terms of that policy.

Bupa Australia & New Zealand Chief Executive Officer, Hisham El-Ansary, said Bupa had established the assistance fund to give customers some comfort at a time when the community was understandably anxious.

“This is a health situation like no other and as a health and care company we want to support our customers through this pandemic,” Mr El-Ansary said.

“From today, customers who have lost their jobs or are experiencing other financial hardship as a result of COVID-19, will have access to some financial assistance.

“Specifically, customers who have received the Commonwealth coronavirus supplement or are sole traders can apply through our website. Our customer service teams are working to process these applications. The assistance provided will vary based on individual circumstances.

“Following the government’s decision yesterday to suspend all non-urgent elective surgery, we are also considering how we can ensure customers can continue to receive value from their products.

“This will include customers being able to claim psychology, counselling, speech pathology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and dietetic services delivered through telephone or video consultations, subject to their policy. We are also looking at several other options,” Mr El-Ansary said.

Customers can access the financial hardship application form online at www.bupa.com.au/COVID19