Help for consumers with "junk" health fund policies - Minister

Following recommendations by consumer magazine Choice (see also Blog post below Drop private health extras cover - consumer body advises), that health fund members consider dispensing with their extras insurance, Federal Health Minister Ms Sussan Ley said that some of 40,000-plus health fund policies are “clearly junk”.

“I’m particularly concerned when I hear of patients unsure of what they’re covered for or how much they’ll be out of pocket, despite being a loyal customer for many years,” she said.

Ms Ley said as part of her reform discussions with the private health industry, she is “investigating ways to ensure consumers can compare apples with apples when they shop around”.

Meanwhile, consumers wanting free, independent comparison advice on health policies should visit the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman’s website.