Open navigation
13 13 34

HCF in sync with Governments strategy to tackle specialists out of pocket costs

5 March 2019 – HCF, Australia’s largest and most trusted not for profit health fund, has backed the Federal Government’s announcement that it launch a national strategy to tackle excessive out of pocket costs charged by medical specialists.

Minister Hunt has announced the development of a website to provide Australians with transparency and an education campaign to inform patients about the costs of specialist services.

“We support any initiative designed to remove the major pain point that bill shock has for Australian consumers.” said HCF CEO, Sheena Jack.

“Our own research shows fees can vary widely between medical specialists and it is difficult for consumers to make informed decisions when selecting healthcare providers.

For that reason we launched our own website for HCF members last month to provide more information and transparency around potential out of pocket costs.

By developing this platform, we want to empower our members to have discussions with medical specialists to either avoid or at least be aware of the out of pockets costs they may face” Ms Jack concluded.

- ENDS –

For more information about HCF’s out-of-pocket expenses initiative visit https://www.hcf.com.au/locations/find-a-participating-provider

Issued on behalf of HCF by Palin Communications. Media enquiries to:

ABOUT HCF

HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers over 1.5 million members with health and life insurance, community care, travel and pet insurance. On average over the last five years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. With over 35,000 specialists participating in its Medical Gap Cover Scheme and approximately 10,000 providers participating in its 100% back More for You programs, HCF gives members access to quality health care with no gaps or minimal costs compared to non-participating providers. To empower members to put their health first, HCF also offers a range of health and lifestyle services including its My Health Guardian health management program, mobile Victor Chang Health Checks and My Global Specialist second opinion service. HCF’s national network of retail outlets and Australian-based call centres have earned multi-award winning
status. HCF members also have access to low cost, high quality services at HCF Dental Centres and HCF Eyecare Centres. Having contributed $50 million to support the health services research funded by the HCF Research Foundation, HCF is devoted to investing in the future of Australia’s health. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us