Medibank's Managing Director, George Savvides has welcomed the National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission's report released today, and praised the emphasis on prevention, e-health, and the integration of public and private funding through the Medicare Select proposition that would introduce competition for the provision of public health services.
"There is broad agreement that the current model is financially unsustainable and that fundamental reform is needed to deal with the substantial gaps in navigating the health system. We are pleased the Commission has put the consumer at the centre of its considerations and has preserved choice and flexibility in the proposed reforms," Mr Savvides said.
"The report recommendations also open the door for private health insurers to play a broader role in meeting the health needs of Australians. We support the proposed Medicare Select integrated servicing concept which will allow public and private providers to compete for funding to service health consumers.
"Medibank's direction is aligned with many of the recommendations in the report, particularly around prevention and chronic disease management, and we welcome the Commission's focus on a 'hand-in-hand' approach with acute and preventative health services.
"As a private health insurer we already have a strong interest in the health status of our customers. We have a unique opportunity to leverage our relationships to implement preventative health strategies that slow the normal health risk escalation of an ageing population. It makes financial sense for us to engage in health programs that maintain the health of our customers and reduce health care costs.
The fund also welcomes the Commission's recommendation for electronic health records for Australians, and strongly supports immediate implementation.
"An electronic health record is a key piece of reform to tie the fragmented health care system together," Mr Savvides said.
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Sarah Chibnall
Tel: 03 8622 5181 | Mob: 0423 762 676 | email: sarah_chibnall@medibank.com.au