> Grrrrrrrrrrr too. > > This is totally unacceptable and bloody outrageous - how can we change > this???!! > > Kristin > > Naturopath & CBE
Dear Kristin and all You can:-)) Join MC cause we make representations like this all the time. In fact I will raising this issue with the Shadow Hlth Mins in a couple of weeks. Write letters to your local/state papers asking why the total lack of competition and care that is not based on sound health outcomes etc etc Inform all your CBE clients that PHI (Priv Hlth Ins) is totally discriminatory and does not allow choice (ie no midwifery care). It will fund joggers and aromatheraphy and yet the most important decision for a couple they are forced to use a priv obs at a priv hosp and by that very fact significantly increase their chance of unnecessary surgery and resultant morbidity. Support anyone who has PHI who wants a mid choice to approach their fund and request parity for maternity care (ie same costs covered for M/w¹s as Obs). When as they no doubt will say no. Take it further to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman His details are Mr John Powlay and this is from their site www.phio.org.au You can raise a complaint with us by phone, email, fax or letter. Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Private Health Insurance Ombudsman Level 7, 362 Kent Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Complaints Hotline:1800 640 695 Telephone: (02) 8235 8777 Facsimile: (02) 8235 8778 Points to make (which I know you already know!!) *There are more babies born each year than any other health procedure. *In private health insurance there is absolutely no competition, it is totally medically dominated. *It is also an area that is crippling health funds (so much so that smaller funds actually tell you which Obstetrician you can see as they can only afford some). *Some funds are looking at providing a midwifery benefit (as they recognise the huge cost saving) but where is the Government support?? Still no assistance with insurance. With insurance all funds could offer choice (that would also double as a HUGE cost saver). Importantly it would also make PHI a viable option for rural consumers (currently as most rural areas do not have private Obs or even Obs there is no point joining up). This shows what a giant waste of money PHI is in its current form. Hope this helps
