Patients the losers in stalled negotiations over private health insurance

AMA (NSW) is disappointed that patients insured by one of Australia’s largest health funds, nib, may soon be unable to use their hospital cover for surgery at major private hospitals including St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Sydney and the Mater on Sydney’s north shore.

St Vincent’s Health Australia has been in negotiations with nib for months, seeking a deal that considers the rising costs of providing private hospital care, but negotiations have stalled. If no resolution is reached 1.3 million customers nationwide will be prevented from using their cover for St Vincent’s Health Australia from October 4th.

“This is not a satisfactory outcome for the patients of New South Wales who have paid their premiums with the expectation that they would be seen by the doctor of their choice at the hospital of their choice. To have that decision taken away from them is not acceptable.” AMA (NSW) President Dr Kathryn Austin said.

“This is a big deal for patients with planned elective surgery who may now not be able to access the care they need or may only be able to do so with significant out-of-pocket costs.” Dr Austin said.

The Australian Medical Association is calling for the creation of an independent Private Health System Authority to ensure the sector is appropriately regulated and patients get real value for money from their private health insurance.

“Australians have invested in private health care as instructed by consecutive governments and this is not the outcome they deserve.” Dr Austin said.

“Significant profit margins for private health insurers should not come at the cost of patient care.”

“We urge nib and St Vincent’s Health Australia to resume negotiations to ensure all patients are able to access the care they need and expect.”

Contact: +61 419 402 955 | news@amansw.com.au