Private health insurance played a crucial role in Australians' ability to access preventative healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to research commissioned by not-for-profit health fund HCF.
The report showed that over three quarters (76%) of the respondents stated that focusing on their health is an investment. It also revealed that those who have private health insurance proactively care for their health. Over the past two years, 93% of Australians with private health insurance with Extras cover have used and claimed services, such as dental services, optical services, physio, chiro or massage services, or mental health services.
When it comes to prevention, the respondents recognised that access to private health insurance facilitates access to preventative treatments, with nearly three quarters (71%) stating that preventative healthcare reduces the need for more extensive treatment later. Meanwhile, over half (55%) said they would be more likely to use preventative treatment if everyone had access to private health insurance.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that now, more than ever, we need to shift from ‘treating’ to ‘preventing’. Currently, almost a third of Australia's total burden of disease can be attributed to modifiable risk factors that can be prevented,” said HCF chief executive officer Sheena Jack.
“With the public system more than ever focused on delivering acute care, we know Australians need options in the private system to access those preventive care measures to help reduce the likelihood of needing treatment down the track.”
Among those that have used mental health services in the past two years, 45% said they cannot continue to use the services at the same rate if they were not available through their private health insurer.
“To deliver the right care, in the right setting, at the right time, we have introduced several new free services that enable online access to healthcare professionals, delivering bespoke health support to best meet member needs, including telehealth services,” Jack added. “This has opened up a new and more convenient means to address health needs that better suit lifestyle and help to safeguard the future health of our members.”
