Not-for-profit health insurer Latrobe Health Services has released its first Total Impact Value Report, outlining its contributions to public health initiatives.
The report detailed investments in preventive health screenings, mental health services, and hospital infrastructure, positioning these efforts within the evolving landscape of consumer-driven private health insurance decisions.
Latrobe Health Services has expanded access to preventive healthcare through its partnership with the Shane Warne Legacy initiative, which aims to improve heart health awareness.
In 2023, the initiative facilitated 31,742 free heart health checks, including 7,732 screenings at the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. In partnership with SiSU Health and Novo Nordisk, the insurer has committed to providing 400,000 additional free heart health checks across Australia in 2024.
To further support cardiovascular health, Latrobe Health Services has funded the Healthy Hearts workplace program, which provides free screenings for employees in regional areas. According to the report, 79% of 374 participants showed at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and 13% were advised to seek further medical assessment.
Mental health support is also a key focus. In collaboration with Phoenix Australia, Latrobe Health Services has funded bulk-billed telehealth assessments for rural and regional residents. Between November 2022 and August 2024, the program delivered 1,614 bulk-billed mental health appointments for 284 individuals. Findings from the report indicate that 60% of participants experienced recovery from PTSD, while 73% reported a reduction in symptoms.
These community health initiatives align with shifting trends in Australia’s private health insurance market. A survey conducted by financial comparison site Money.com.au found that 24% of Australians purchase hospital insurance primarily to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) – a tax applied to high-income earners who do not have private health coverage. The surcharge applies to individuals earning over $93,000 per year and families earning above $186,000.
The survey also found that Millennials (29%) were the most likely to take out health insurance to avoid the surcharge, followed by Gen X (24%), Gen Z (21%), and Baby Boomers (16%).
Data from the Private Health Insurance Intermediaries Association (PHIIA) highlighted a growing preference for basic-tier hospital insurance policies. Over the 2023-24 period, sales of basic-tier coverage increased by 44.7%, while Gold-tier policies, which provide more comprehensive coverage, declined by 10%.
Latrobe Health Services insures 100,000 Australians, with 60% residing in metropolitan areas and 40% in regional locations.
“We own and support Gippsland’s only private hospital and are proud that 89% of our members report they are satisfied with our services, compared to the industry standard of 73%. We are committed to building healthier and more resilient communities and have made targeted investments to deliver long-term value,” said Ian Whitehead, CEO of Latrobe Health Services.
