Reporting to APAC CEO, Nick Stone, and joining Bupa’s Executive Leadership team, Mr Rose will commence at Bupa in November 2026. Mr Rose’s appointment follows previous Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, Roger Sharp, recently leaving Bupa to take up a role in the not-for-profit health sector.

Jonathan will play a pivotal role in shaping our communications and engagement, public affairs, media, external relations and sustainability agenda. Throughout his career, Jonathan has worked across the Asia-Pacific region, helping organisations navigate complex issues and build trust with governments, investors, media and communities. He has extensive experience managing major reputation programs and advising leadership teams during periods of significant change and public interest.

Jonathan’s career has spanned diverse industries, having worked for organisations including General Motors, Telstra, Cricket Australia, NAB, and Bupa, prior to his most recent role at Rio Tinto where he was responsible for communications in Australia.

Mr Stone said: “I am delighted to welcome Jonathan back to Bupa. He brings deep experience in corporate affairs and stakeholder engagement, and his leadership will strengthen our ability to deliver on our purpose and support the continued growth and success of Bupa across the region.”

Mr Rose said: “I’m proud to be returning to Bupa to lead Corporate Affairs and Sustainability.

“I’m looking forward to working with talented colleagues across the organisation, supporting the business through both opportunities and challenges, and helping tell the Bupa story in a meaningful and engaging way.”

Bupa’s discussion paper, Building a More Accessible, Modern and Sustainable Health System, sets out a vision for a health system better equipped to address the chronic disease burden affecting 15.4 million Australians, with Australians spending almost 11 years of their lives in ill health, much of it linked to preventable or manageable conditions.

Developed in part with economics, strategy and policy consulting firm, Mandala Partners, and launched today at Parliament House in Canberra, the paper focuses on ways to expand access to preventive and primary care, accelerate adoption of innovative models of care, improve access and affordability in specialist services, and strengthen the long-term sustainability and viability of Australia's health system.

Bupa APAC CEO Nick Stone said: “We have one of the best health systems in the world, but it was designed for a different Australia and a different era of care. The next generation of healthcare will require bold, practical reform.

“Prevention should be at the centre of Australia's next phase of health reform,” Mr Stone said.

“An ageing population, rising chronic disease, workforce shortages, growing out-of-pocket costs and increasing financial pressure on governments and households are already affecting how Australians access care. Customer expectations have also changed dramatically.

“Too often, the system is organised around health episodes, institutions and locations rather than the journeys, continuity of care and outcomes that people face.

“Our ambition is simple: to help Australians live longer, healthier and happier lives. To achieve that, healthcare must become more connected, preventative, convenient and centred around patients. That’s why we want to work with government and key sector leaders to ensure Australia’s health system remains sustainable, accessible and fit for the future.”

Key recommendations in the report include:

• Establish a National Prevention Partnership Framework to help governments, providers and insurers invest in prevention, improve health outcomes and reduce pressure on hospitals.

• Enable private health insurers to fund prevention and early intervention including health checks, screening, coaching and care coordination before conditions become serious.

• Give insurers greater flexibility to fund mental health care outside hospitals, potentially avoiding 41,000 admissions and saving $140 million a year.

• Expand Hospital in the Home so more Australians can receive hospital-level treatment including IV antibiotics, wound care and post-operative recovery safely at home.

• Continue moving Medicare towards blended funding that rewards prevention, chronic disease management and coordinated care involving nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals.

• Fast-track workforce reforms, including streamlined pathways for overseas-trained doctors, a national specialist workforce plan and expanded specialist training.

The paper reinforces healthcare workforce shortages are becoming one of the biggest threats to access and affordability, with Australia facing a projected shortfall of more than 8,600 GPs and 12,800 specialists by 2048, while four in ten GPs are already aged 55 and above.

Bupa is calling for urgent reforms focusing on prevention, early intervention and chronic disease management, as current funding and regulations remain largely focused on treating illness after it becomes more serious.

The paper notes Australia recorded almost 788,000 preventable hospitalisations at a cost of $7.7 billion in 2023-24, highlighting the growing cost of treating illness after it develops.

“Preventive health represents one of the greatest opportunities to improve health outcomes, reduce long-term costs and ensure the sustainability of the health system. Improving health outcomes through better management of chronic disease and reduced hospitalisations is key and reorienting our healthcare system towards prevention… is a large part of the solution to tackling chronic disease,” the paper states.

Evidence in the paper shows prevention initiatives generate a median return of $14.30 for every dollar invested, making prevention one of the most effective investments available to the health system.

The discussion paper highlights current funding has not kept pace with contemporary healthcare needs, with lower returns for longer consultations, where patient needs are complex or chronic conditions are involved and favouring consultations and interventions after illness develops rather than preventive care and ongoing management.

“While Medicare's fee-for-service design funds individual episodes of care, it is poorly suited to prevention and coordination. As demand for health services continues to increase, investment alone will not be enough. We must look at preventative health models to help slow this rise,” the paper says.

“GPs frequently need specialist input on a discrete question, but the MBS provides no dedicated mechanism for brief specialist advice outside a formal consultation, and case-conferencing items are ill-suited to routine secondary consultation.”

More than 300,000 mental health-related presentations to public emergency departments in 2024-25 highlight the need for earlier intervention, with the paper calling for greater flexibility to fund evidence-based mental health care in community and digital settings before people reach crisis point.

“Mental health is one of the most substantial and persistent pressures on Australia's health system, workforce and economy. Rebalancing towards prevention and out-of-hospital care would improve system efficiency and increase the return on existing investment,” the report says.

Mr Stone said achieving meaningful and lasting change will require shared responsibility and genuine collaboration between governments, clinicians, insurers, providers, consumers and the broader health sector.

“We welcome the important steps the Government has already taken to lay the foundations for reform in several of these key areas. Our recommendations are intended to complement those efforts and support a health system that is more connected, prevention-focused and centred on the needs of patients,” he said.

To read the full Building a More Accessible, Modern and Sustainable Health System discussion paper, click here.

Jayant has been acting in the interim role since April this year, following his role as Finance Director for BVAC Australia. During more than 15 years with Bupa, he has made a significant contribution to the growth and performance of the aged care business, earning a reputation as a values-led leader who keeps residents, customers and people at the centre. His deep understanding of the aged care sector, combined with his focus on high-quality care, positions him well to lead BVAC into its next chapter.

Nick Stone, CEO, Bupa APAC, said the appointment reflected the depth leadership talent within Bupa and would further strengthen Bupa’s ability to deliver for residents and customers.

“Jayant has been an outstanding leader at Bupa for many years and has played a significant role in the success of our aged care business. I know he will continue to make a meaningful difference for our residents and their families.”

Mr Krishnan said: "It’s a privilege to be leading our aged care business in Australia. I’ve seen first-hand the dedication of our people in our homes and how hard they work to make a difference in the lives of our residents and their families every day.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with our teams across Australia to deliver high-quality care and exceptional experiences for those we serve."

Since launching nationally in 2020, the program has supported 3387 clients, of those one in five have been Bupa customers, to safely withdraw from alcohol and begin structured recovery support at home. Thousands of clients are currently engaged in active treatment, reflecting growing demand for accessible, telehealth-delivered care.

Of those who have gone through the program, more than 60% are female and 39% are male. Those aged between 35 and 54 make up the majority needing help (almost 55%) followed by 55+ (almost 27%).

The program includes daily telehealth calls with a specialist nurse during the detox period, 12 months of follow-up support, access to a personalised recovery plan and peer support group, and regular communication with the client’s GP to ensure continuity of care.

Traditionally, people seeking help for alcohol dependence are required to be admitted to a hospital or inpatient facility for several days or weeks.

It comes as new data in the annual Bupa Pulse Check also reveals Aussies are cutting back on alcohol with 45% reducing alcohol consumption and 16% saying they would like to cut back on drinking alcohol, indicating a positive trend towards healthier habits.

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams said the collaboration showed how healthcare could be delivered beyond traditional settings and help improve access to vital support.

“Through our partnership with Clean Slate Clinic, we are helping make treatment easier to access at home, with support from clinical care and telehealth. It is about removing barriers and making sure people can get the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”

Clean Slate Clinic’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Chris Davis said: “We’re seeing a clear cultural shift. More Australians are reflecting on their relationship with alcohol and actively looking to cut back. The challenge is ensuring that when someone decides they’re ready for support - safe and clinically appropriate care is accessible without delay.

“Our partnership with Bupa plays an important role in reducing these financial and structural barriers, helping more Australians to access medically supervised treatment at home.”

Before starting the program, participants undergo a telehealth assessment with a Clean Slate Clinic nurse to ensure clinical suitability. With the client’s consent, Clean Slate Clinic will also liaise with their regular GP to coordinate ongoing support.

The 12-month program includes psychological and physical preparation for detox success, prescribed medications and vitamins (if needed) to manage withdrawal, a personalised post-detox recovery plan with relapse prevention strategies, scheduled follow-up calls with their dedicated nurse for ongoing guidance.

The latest data suggests one in six counselling contacts to Kids Helpline is suicide-related, and three-quarters come outside business hours.

yourtown CEO Tracy Adams said the national fundraising campaign was in response to the increasing number of young people seeking help late at night and in the early hours of the morning.

“We’re seeing a steady rise in children and young people reaching out when most other services are closed,” Ms Adams said.

“Kids Helpline is answering more than 130,000 contacts a year, but the demand for counselling support is growing. Right now, we can only respond to three in every five contacts.

“Some of the children we support are as young as five. We don’t want to see any child or young person needing support and not being able to get it – that’s a heartbreaking gap.”

Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. It’s a vital safety net for those facing mental health challenges, bullying, abuse, family breakdown, or loneliness.

The Giving Day will take place on 24 July, reflecting the 24/7 nature of the service, which operates around the clock to support young people when they need it most.

“Our Giving Day is a chance for all in our community to say: we see you, we hear you, and we’ll show up for you,” Ms Adams said.

Alongside government funding and public donations, the Bupa Foundation has proudly contributed more than $3 million since 2019 to help Kids Helpline reach more young people.

Bupa APAC Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Roger Sharp said the reality is that current funding, from all sources, isn’t enough to meet growing demand for Kids Helpline services.

“That’s why the Bupa Foundation will continue to provide funding support to Kids Helpline and why we’re encouraging everyone to support this vital campaign, so no child is left waiting for help when they need it most,” Mr Sharp said.

Kids Helpline counsellors conduct on average 89 crisis or safety interventions every week. Most of these happen after-hours, with 75 per cent of all contacts now occurring outside the traditional 9-to-5 window.

“Whether it’s 2am or 2pm during school hours, Kids Helpline is there — and your donation helps make sure no child in crisis goes unheard,” Ms Adams said.

Your gift makes a real difference:

·         $55 gives a counselling session to one child in need

·         $110 supports a young person through two or more critical moments

·         $550 supports a full day of critical responses, supporting multiple children and young people

Kids Helpline is funded by yourtown, with support from government/s, corporate and community donations. However, additional funding is needed to increase the capacity of the service to lift response rates. 

To donate or find out more information about the Kids Helpline Giving Day visit here

Mr Stone said Dr Woods’ appointment followed an extensive internal and external process and demonstrated the importance clinical leadership as part of Bupa’s strategy to be the most customer-centred healthcare company.

“We’re thrilled to have someone of Nic’s calibre and experience join Bupa at such a transformational time for the health sector, bringing both deep clinical expertise and business leadership to our Executive Team,” Mr Stone said.

Nic joins Bupa from Calvary Care most recently as National Director of Digital Health & Technology (Chief Digital Officer) where he led the technology team across all Calvary Care services, and he was part of the Executive Leadership Team.  Following more than 20 years in clinical medicine and digital health, Nic continues to champion digital health to improve access, affordability, and better patient outcomes.

“Nic is a known and dedicated leader in the clinical community. He’s passionate about improving community health and clinical outcomes and embracing new technologies and medical advancements to meet the future needs of patients.

“As CHO, Nic will be responsible for clinical oversight across our APAC business working closely with our clinical leaders and our hospital partners to drive better health outcomes for our customers,” Mr Stone added.

Nic’s career includes time as Chief Medical Officer with Microsoft, an executive role at Cerner, and years of clinical practice in Emergency Departments, Urgent Care Clinics and General Practice, across New Zealand, Australia, and the UK.

Bupa Asia Pacific CEO, Nick Stone said: “GPs are the backbone of our health system and it’s vital that Australians are able to access healthcare whenever and wherever they need it.

“We welcome initiatives that help ease cost of living pressures and provide timely and convenient access to healthcare, which we know can be real barriers for all Australians,” Mr Stone said.

“Being able to access doctors via telehealth at any time of the day helps take some pressure off busy hospital emergency departments while promoting preventative healthcare. We also know that general practice is under pressure in Australia and additional opportunities that increase flexibility for doctors are a key way to attract and retain GPs.”

Mr Stone said Bupa had already boosted its telehealth services with three 24/7 telehealth consults per policy for eligible health insurance customers as part of its digital health platform, Blua.

To date, 69% of Blua telehealth appointments have been resolved during initial consultations, with just 2% or less directed to emergency departments. Currently, more than 90% of all Blua consultations are carried out via video which enhances the quality and safety of interactions.

Mr Stone said: “Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has quickly become an established part of Australia’s health care system, making better use of practitioners’ and patients’ time.

“Usage patterns indicate Blua Online Doctors is increasing access to primary care out-of-hours and at times when patients might otherwise visit their local emergency department instead,” Mr Stone added.

For more information about Blua please click here.

The Healthy Cities Challenge encourages Bupa’s people, community and corporate partners to adopt active lifestyle habits by getting moving any way they can during September to unlock investment into environmental projects to restore nature and create new green spaces in urban areas. The 2024 Challenge launches amidst Bupa research suggesting almost 50 per cent of Aussies are running, walking or cycling for fitness, with two-thirds of those who are running doing so to improve their mental health[1].

Bupa APAC CEO Nick Stone said while Bupa’s people gear-up for Healthy Cities 2024, funding from the 2023 program has already been put into action through a range of planting days in local communities.

“By combining physical activity with environmental action, the Healthy Cities Challenge brings to life our belief that to have healthy people, you need to have a healthy planet.

“With the activity and enthusiasm of participants, we want to build on the 650 million steps taken as part of last year’s Healthy Cities Challenge and create a groundswell of activity towards one billion collective steps in 2024 so we can revitalise even more green spaces with our restoration partners,” said Nick.

Landcare Australia joins Project Crimson Trust in New Zealand, which are involved for the second year as partners in Bupa’s Healthy Cities Challenge and will share in the $1 million committed to local restoration projects.

Landcare Australia CEO, Dr. Shane Norrish welcomed the opportunity to partner with Bupa to plant thousands of trees and shrubs that will create lasting environmental and health benefits in urban and peri-urban communities across Australia.

“This collaboration provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate and showcase the connection between human and planet health on a national scale,” Shane said. 

The Healthy Cities Challenge takes place as Bupa activates in Melbourne’s CBD in separate initiatives delivered in partnership with National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Fed Square. As part of the NGV’s Reimagining Birrarung: Towards 2070 exhibition, Bupa will be supporting a range of activities designed to encourage audience reflection and action, and support people’s health through nature restoration.

This September Bupa will also support RESET at Melbourne’s iconic Fed Square – a month-long festival, focusing on environmental sustainability, connecting with nature, and promoting easy, enjoyable and useful ways to reduce our impact on the world.

Following Healthy Cities and RESET, Bupa will be sponsoring the 2024 Private Land Conservation Conference which provides landowners, government and business the opportunity to collaborate and explore opportunities to accelerate and expand nature action at corporate, community and individual levels.

Nick Stone said partnerships such as these are vital for helping people experience firsthand how adopting healthy habits in their day-to-day lives can positively impact their wellbeing and the cities they live in.

“Through a collective effort, we are committed to contributing to the restoration of our invaluable and distinctive ecosystems in Australia and New Zealand, all aimed at fostering a healthier planet for healthier people," Nick said.

Further information on Bupa’s Healthy Cities Challenge can be found here www.bupa.com.au/healthycities

[1] PowerPoint Presentation (bupa.com.au)

As Official Healthcare Partner to Paralympics Australia, Bupa has set up the Hub for coaches and officials who travel with the para-athletes, as well as Paralympics Australia team members, to support their health and wellbeing throughout the Games.

The Wellbeing Hub, located at Paralympics Australia’s Out of Village Base just outside the Games venue, will be a place where support squad members can take a moment for themselves, to regroup, focus on their mental health while also have access to a physio, massage chairs, recovery boots and a stretch station.

This follows a year-long health and wellbeing program, delivered by Bupa in consultation with Paralympics Australia, including proactive health offerings such as skin checks, and tailored programs on maintaining sleep and wellbeing during high-stress moments.

Bupa APAC CEO, Nick Stone, said a Para-athlete’s support network played a crucial part in their success, but the support team could often put aside their health and wellbeing while they prioritised their athletes’ needs, with limited resources.

“Our team members across our stores, clinics, and care homes are ready to cheer on our Paralympians in Paris. We’ve got green and gold fever and can’t wait to watch them compete on the world stage,” Mr Stone said.

“We know sport connects all Australians, whether they’re playing or spectating, and we hope all Australians will get behind our Paralympians this year and think deeply about how they can help make Australia more accessible for people living with a disability.

“We’ve been inspired by our partnership with Paralympics Australia and watching the Paralympians in their journey to Paris. We’re also incredibly proud to get behind the support teams who do so much to prepare the Para-athletes and help them reach their full potential.

“We know the support teams have limited time for themselves and we hope the Bupa Wellness Hub provides a space where they can take a moment for themselves,” Mr Stone said.

PA Chef de Mission, Kate McLoughlin, said: "We are well prepared to achieve great things in Paris together with Bupa, whose dedication to supporting our team, particularly the staff behind the scenes, has been outstanding. Their determination to affect change and enhance the health and wellbeing of every member of our team is something we are deeply grateful for as we head into the 2024 Paralympic Games.

"Every member of the 2024 Australian Paralympic Team is acutely proud of the incredible legacy created by those who have gone before us and the responsibility we have to uphold it. Bupa’s wonderful support, exemplified by the Wellness Hub in Paris, is a testament to their commitment to our mission and the way we will go about making our mark during this campaign.”

​Mr Stone said during the past 18 months, Bupa had also accelerated our work to become a disability-confident workplace and were proud to recently launch our inaugural Access and Inclusion plan.

“We hope that through our commitment to greater inclusion, we can foster an environment that will encourage more people to stay and join our workforce, while better meeting the needs of our people, our customers, and the communities where we live and work,” Mr Stone said.

Developed in partnership with Australian Disability Network, Bupa’s plan focuses on creating an inclusive workplace, removing unintended barriers to participation, aspiring to be an Employer of Choice, and building stronger values-led communities.

Mr Stone said critical to the development and execution of Bupa’s plan is our Access and Inclusion Employee Advocacy Group, AccessAbility. This group of employees with lived experience, who live with a disability, care for people with a disability, or are an ally to the community, help steward our approach and keep Bupa accountable to its commitments.

“Alongside our employee network, we also asked some of our Para-athletes and Bupa ambassadors to participate in workshops to help inform aspects of our Access and Inclusion plan and speak with our people about their lived experiences in sport and in the community. While we’re gaining momentum, and are proud of our progress so far, we know we still have a journey ahead,” he said.

For more information, visit Bupa’s Access and Inclusion plan.

The list, based on Bupa Pet Insurance policies, shows size doesn’t matter with big dogs like Labradors, Border Collies and Golden Retrievers making the top 10 list as well as the smaller bundles of fun including the Maltese Cross, French Bulldog and Miniature Dachshund. 

The cat’s out of the bag with Ragdolls, Tabbies, Burmese, and Domestic Short Hairs among our most popular cat breeds. 

National data reveals there are about 28.7 million pets living in 6.9 million households throughout Australia, with almost half those homes having a dog for a housemate, while a third have a cat. 

Bupa General Insurance General Manager Lachlan Davidson said what all pets had in common, whether they were dogs or cats, was that they were paw-fect for companionship and cuddles. 

“Aussies continue to embrace paws and claws, and our popular furry pets reflect the wide-ranging choices, needs and lifestyles of pet parents,” Mr Davidson said. 

“Besides being cute and cuddly, Cavoodles are able to fit in with many house settings – from large homes to small city apartments, they just make for the perfect housemate.”

Despite cost-of-living pressures on households, many families continue to own pets, but a national PetSure survey showed 21.5% of owners reduced preventive care including routine check-up appointments while some skipped treatment for fleas, ticks, and worms. 

Bupa Pet Insurance claim data shows gastrointestinal complaints, skin allergies, ear infections, eating foreign objects and eye problems were among the top claims for dogs. 

While for cats, injuries from accidents, gastrointestinal diseases, skin allergies, eye problems, dental issues and urinary tract disease are leading to pet bills. 

Mr Davidson encouraged pet owners to remain vigilant with their pet dog or cat’s health. 

“Many conditions when not treated early can lead to more serious complications,” he said. 

“With the ongoing financial impacts to household budgets, pet insurance can help cover pets’ medical expenses should something unexpectedly occur. 

“Since the pandemic, pet ownership continues to increase, and we’ve seen a 10% increase in the number of people taking out Bupa Pet Insurance.”

Top 10 Dog Breeds 
1. Cavoodle 
2. Maltese Cross 
3. Golden Retriever 
4. Labrador 
5. Border Collie 
6. French Bulldog 
7. Miniature Dachshund – Smooth Haired 
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier 
9. German Sheppard 
10. Golden Doodle (Groodle) 

Top 10 Cat Breeds 
1. Domestic Short hair 
2. Ragdoll 
3. Domestic Medium Hair 
4. Domestic House Cat 
5. Tabby 
6. British Short Hair 
7. Domestic Long Hair 
8. Burmese 
9. Unknown Cat Breed 
10. Ragdoll Cross 

Source: Bupa Pet Insurance data based on insurance policies July 2023 – June 2024

We are only halfway through 2024, and already too many women have lost their lives under horrific circumstances. The alarming rise in women dying due to gender-based violence has prompted our government to declare it has reached crisis point.

To ensure no more women needlessly lose their lives, we all have a responsibility to be active participants in the national movement to end violence against women. Because of this, Bupa is proud to have partnered with the Our Watch Institute, Australia’s leading team of violence prevention and gender equality experts, to progress our work in the prevention of violence against women.

Leaning on their expertise, we’ll enhance the internal training and programs we already have in place to build confidence in Bupa’s leaders to appropriately respond and support people in their team who may be experiencing gender-based violence. We’ll also be more visible in the support offered to our people, which includes referrals to support services and access to family and domestic violence leave.

We also want to ensure that we are delivering on our commitment to create a workplace where everyone can feel safe and thrive. We have implemented many measures in this space, including establishing a dedicated working group which is focused on continually improving our policies and processes in support of reducing bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment, and sex discrimination in the workplace.

For our customers, we recognise that sharing experiences of family and domestic violence can be particularly challenging. Therefore, we’re committed to training our employees to recognise the signs, inform customers about appropriate support options, and maintain the confidentiality of their information.  You can read more about the customer support options here.

By partnering with the Our Watch Institute and by making our commitment to addressing gender-based violence public, we hope that we are taking meaningful steps to address this issue, not just now, but for future generations.

(*AIHW 2021-22 PSS)

Findings from the latest Bupa Pulse Check survey revealed Australians were increasingly focusing on their health and wellbeing.

As one of Australia’s largest healthcare companies, Bupa is playing a key role in helping Australians live healthier every day, and adapting to their changing health and wellbeing needs.

This insight has underpinned Bupa Health Insurance’s new campaign, ‘Good health is contagious’ with creative agency Thinkerbell. It’s the first major work building into the Bupa master brand’s ‘Healthcaring’ platform.

The campaign is built from a human truth - when one person makes a healthy choice, it catches on around them. With more than 4.3 million customers, Bupa is in a unique position to help good health catch on right across Australia by making it easier for customer to make healthy choices with the value that’s offered by their health insurance.

‘Good health is contagious’ elevates Bupa’s role from health insurer to a health care partner, differentiating it in the cluttered health insurance market.

Jim Ingram, Group Chief Creative Tinker & Founder of Thinkerbell said: “With this idea, Bupa will be a spark for all kinds of contagious health - from dental check-ups, to mindfulness, to…well lycra, all helping people remember that we can catch good stuff from each other too.”

Naomi Driver, Bupa Health Insurance GM of Marketing, adds: “This campaign reflects how everyday Australians are approaching their health. It focuses on how small actions can catch on to improve overall wellbeing.

“As a healthcare partner to millions of Australians we want to help people feel confident they can live healthier, whatever good health looks like to them. We love the potential this idea has for helping good health catch on across the broader community.”

The work launched nationally across digital, social, TV, radio, and OOH over the weekend.

Ms Curran is a highly experienced healthcare leader across strategy, clinical and non-clinical operations, performance improvement and transformation.

Most recently, she was Executive General Manager – Health and Education at Downer Group, where she led a portfolio of long-term contracts (mostly Public Private Partnerships) to major hospitals, tertiary institutions and schools across Australia and New Zealand. Services included asset and facilities management, patient support services, sustainability, security, and technology.

Ms Curran previously worked at NSW Health, where she ran several of Sydney’s largest acute hospitals plus mental health and community services.  She was also a consultant at Deloitte and Booz & Company focusing on health strategy and operations.

She is currently a board member of the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, one of Australia’s largest health charities.

On Ms Curran’s appointment, Bupa APAC Chief Executive Officer Nick Stone said: “Liz is a purpose-driven leader, who is passionate about customers, team members and the communities they serve. Liz is joining us at an exciting time for our Health Services portfolio and with her broad experience, skillset and customer-first mindset, she is well placed to drive our growth agenda.”

Ms Curran said: “I’m thrilled to be joining such a customer-led organisation. I look forward to driving Bupa’s future vision for healthcare across dental, optical, hearing and government services while helping create a connected care journey for all our members and patients.”

Mr Stone also thanked Guneet Sawhney, for his interim leadership of Health Services over recent months. Mr Sawhney has recently been appointed Bupa Dental Care Director.

Ms Curran joins APAC’s executive leadership team following an extensive search. She will start in her role in June.

With The UN Resolution predicting half the global population will be living with a vision impairment by 2050, Guneet Sawhney, Director Bupa Optical & Hearing said technology has a major role to play in improving global eye health with poor vision currently costing the global economy $411 billion^[2].

“Developing tools that appeal to tech-savvy Australians are vital for engaging people in their eye-health beyond getting new prescriptions for glasses.

“Our Eye Health Simulator is a great conversation starter and can act as a first step towards identifying serious conditions such as diabetes by helping users or carers understand how symptoms can present in eyesight,” Guneet said.

Bupa Optical has also recently invested in holistic preventative health technology such as EyeInspect which uses Artificial Intelligence to conduct a high-tech retinal screening compared against a database of hundreds of thousands of retinal scans to identify eye and non-eye health problems. Bupa Optical’s optometrists will discuss any issues detected with the customer before referring them to a trusted medical professional.

“It’s our duty to raise awareness on the importance of eye health for our customers and communities, so we have done a lot of work in creating a more integrated healthcare experience for customers recognising that the eye is a window into the heart and a customer’s general health.

“Connecting the dots between health practitioners is key to delivering optimal health outcomes and ensuring people can live long, healthy and happy lives,” Guneet said.

In accordance with the UN resolution, Bupa welcomes opportunities to work with the government and medical community to ensure eye health is better integrated into the planning, resourcing and delivery of universal healthcare.

To find out more about eye health and the Bupa Optical products and services available near you visit here.

^[1] First Australian Optical business or body to provide a free online simulation of 11 eye conditions.

^[2] https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(20)30488-5/fulltext

Media reference number: 20/132

The on-site clinics began last week, following approval via the Federal Government tender process, with first doses of Pfizer provided to team members at 52 of our 63 homes so far.

As of today, nationally Bupa’s aged care employee vaccination level is at 83% with some homes already hitting 100%. This figure will increase as clinics take place at remaining care homes.

The vaccination teams will return to all Bupa homes in the coming weeks to provide the second Pfizer doses.

In line with National Cabinet’s directive, all aged care workers must have received at least one dose of the vaccine by 17 September. Team members who have not received their first dose will be unable to work in aged care beyond that date. Bupa has repeatedly shared this information with all impacted team members and is working closely with those remaining team members to receive the vaccine as soon as possible.

“Not only are the contacts increasing but the severity and complexity of their needs are too.

Children and young people are increasingly experiencing serious mental health concerns, including suicidal ideation or behaviour and self-harm,” Ms Adams said.

In support of this essential service, the Bupa Foundation has provided an additional donation of $100,000, bringing the Foundation’s total commitment to Kids Helpline to $1.45m over the past year.

Hisham El-Ansary, Bupa Asia Pacific CEO, said this extended funding would go towards addressing the immediate surge in demand experienced by Kids Helpline, while the Bupa Foundation continues to support longer term strategies to nurture the mental health and well-being of young Australians.

“Supporting the mental health of our young people has never been so important,” Mr El-Ansary said.

Some other key findings from Kids Helpline include:

• An 80% increase in contacts from 5–10-year old children
• 13–18-year olds represent the largest segment of contacts
• An increase of 200% in emergency interventions by Kids Helpline counsellors for children and young people in Victoria in the first six months of 2021
• An increase of 40% in emergency interventions by Kids Helpline counsellors for children and young people in New South Wales in the first six months of 2021

Bupa is encouraging its customers, its people and the general public to support Kids Helpline by donating here if they are in a position to do so.

To help parents look after the mental health of their children, Kids Helpline Counsellor, Amanda Grehan has the shared following tips:

1. Be aware of your own feelings (as children can pick up on these) and make sure you are looking after your own wellbeing as a parent
2. Be curious and ask questions about their thoughts and feelings (don’t make assumptions as these might be wrong, e.g. some children may enjoy aspects of lockdown)
3. Invite questions and answer as simply and honestly as possible – it’s ok to say, “I don’t know – let’s find out the answer to this together!”
4. Problem-solve together – we can’t make Covid-19 go away, but we can find creative solutions to other problems, e.g. “Your soccer game was cancelled due to lockdown – why don’t we have a fun family match in the backyard?”
5. Switch off and take time out together – constant news about Covid-19 can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take a break and spend time together as a family

Additional resources are available via the Kids Helpline website.

Media reference number: 20/131

The research also revealed 54 per cent of respondents were dissatisfied with their current level of fitness, 41 per cent had decreased feelings of wellbeing, 37 per cent felt they had fallen behind in their fitness goals and 34 per cent were doing less exercise.

To support an increased focus on wellbeing, new and existing Bupa health insurance and general insurance members, as well as eligible Bupa Optical, Bupa Dental and Bupa Hearing customers, can now access the 28 by Sam Wood program at no cost for three months and benefit from guided 28-minute workouts, meals plans, shopping lists and mindfulness support from Sam Wood and the 28 Team through Australia’s most popular fitness app.

Founder of 28 and fitness expert Sam Wood said there's never been a more important time for people to look after physical and mental health, particularly with research suggesting 41 per cent of us are experiencing decreased feelings of wellbeing at this time.

“Social distancing restrictions have prevented many Australians from going to the gym, sourcing their usual cooking ingredients or gaining peace of mind from engaging with the general community,” Sam said.

“In a time of greater stress and anxiety, it’s more important than ever to look after ourselves by moving and eating well. I always say to focus on what you can do, not what you can’t and remember that something is always better than nothing.

“Through this partnership with Bupa, I will be able to help Australians improve their health and wellbeing during this challenging time by welcoming them into the 28 community. I’m really excited about this initiative,” Sam said.

Emily Amos, Managing Director of Health Insurance at Bupa said the partnership with Sam Wood will give customers access to practical fitness, dietary and mental health support at a time when it’s needed most.

“We are excited to be partnering with Sam Wood. His program is a great way we can bring our purpose to life and help Australians live longer, healthier happier lives,” Emily said.

“People want stability and normality to return to their lives and taking part in this program can help establish a healthy routine. And best of all, it’s something that is just as applicable for someone living by themselves or an entire family.

“Customers have told us that while they want to stay fit during this time, they really need some tips and advice on how to go about it – what to do or eat. This partnership gives them credible information and tools at no cost,” Emily said.

Bupa customers can access the 28 by Sam Wood program for three months at no cost, register here. 

Registrations open until Sunday 14 June 2020.

Research callouts:

• 54% currently dissatisfied with current level of fitness
• 34% report decrease in amount of personal exercise
• 37% report decrease in achievement of fitness goals
• 41% report decrease in feelings of wellbeing
• 63% report increase in amount of free time

Online survey conducted by Creative and Digital Agency AJF GrowthOps on Wednesday 29 April consisted of 235 adults aged 18+ in NSW, Victoria and Queensland

^[1] Online survey conducted by Creative and Digital Agency AJF GrowthOps on Wednesday 29 April consisted of 235 adults aged 18+ in NSW, Victoria and Queensland.

Media reference number: 20/053

Bupa has announced a range of measures to support employees, customers, residents and the community including:

• $100,000 donation to the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund;
• six months of premium relief for eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers*;
• $10,000 donation to each local Rural Fire Service and Country Fire Authority where our care homes have been impacted, starting with Eden, Tumut and Bairnsdale;
• up to 20 days paid community service leave for employees who are involved in the firefighting and disaster relief effort, along with counselling support for those who have been personally impacted;
• selected dental and optical services** for eligible Bupa customers from Bupa Optical and Bupa-owned dental practices; and
• expansion of our Workplace Giving campaign to support the Red Cross Relief and Recovery appeal and our volunteer fire fighting services, with all employee donations being matched by Bupa until the end of January.

Bupa A&NZ’s Chief Executive Officer, Hisham El-Ansary said Bupa was committed to helping in any way it could during the horrific bushfires.

“Bupa’s immediate focus has been on the safety and care of our aged care residents who live in the impacted areas. We have worked closely with the relevant authorities and acted quickly to ensure that some 200 of our residents have been moved to locations where they can be cared for safely” Mr El-Ansary said.

“Our hearts go out to those who have been impacted by some of the worst fires we have seen in recent times. Our disaster relief package is designed to lessen some of the burden that many will be feeling, while also supporting the efforts of the brave firefighters and emergency services volunteers. I also acknowledge the dedication of our nurses and carers, some of whom have been personally impacted, as they work to comfort our residents during this difficult time,” Mr El-Ansary said.

Bupa customers are encouraged to contact Bupa’s customer service team on 134 135 or bupabushfirerelief@bupa.com.au to discuss what is available to them and how they can access support.
 

*Terms & Conditions include: Bupa Health Insurance customers have held their policy at 1 January 2020 and who have received the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment following the recent bushfires. Customers can lodge their application from 7 January 2020 until 1 July 2020. Customers are required to provide evidence of receipt of their Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment from the Department of Human Services. Customers will be provided premium relief based on their level of cover as at 1 January 2020.
**Eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers will have access to no out-of-pocket (up to $300) for emergency dental treatments at Bupa-owned Platinum or Members First general dental clinics, while both eligible Bupa health insurance and existing Bupa Optical customers will have access to free prescription frames and prescription sunglasses (from a selected range), contact lenses and eye drops from Bupa Optical.