New Zealanders claimed more than $750 million dollars from their medical insurance in the last 12 months.
This perhaps was due to the strained economic circumstances. The year saw a large number of New Zealanders ‘downgrading’ their health insurance plans. (I.e. Reducing the range of benefits available under their policy in order to lower their premium) In 2010 over 26,000 downgraded their policies. A 33% increase on 2009.
The New Zealand health system as for all international government sponsored healthcare is becoming more costly for the government.
Middle income New Zealanders are paying roughly 50% of their personal income tax into the health sector, around $7,000 per person per annum. Unfortunately costs are escalating.
Medical insurance provides New Zealand with an alternative to the public hospital system.
Modern medical plans can provide both surgical and non surgical benefits at surprisingly high amounts ($200,000 PA).
The key to paying a premium to a health insurer however is the guarantee of instant access to treatment.
Bypassing an ever expanding queue outside public hospital seems a prudent investment whilst the public hospital system is responsive to acute sickness and or accident, ‘elective’ medical and surgical treatment through the private system ($750 million in 2009-2010) is providing more than lip service to a burgeoning social need.
Why you need it
- To protect your health and the health of your loved ones
- Freedom to select the best specialist and hospital in New Zealand
- To avoid long waiting lists to receive treatment
- Access to the latest medical procedures and technology
- No need to worry about large medical bills
- Overseas treatment when not available in New Zealand
- Access to ‘Best Doctors’ – a world wide consultancy free advice process
