Medibank Private has written to members of its PackagePlus product range, confirming that benefits for "lifestyle-related" items will be phased out.
Medibank Private's PackagePlus range comprises four products - PremierPlus, AdvantagePlus, SmartPlus and HealthyPlus.
The letter follows an agreement with the Federal Government that all private health insurance funds would no longer pay claims for lifestyle-related benefits. Lifestyle benefits had accounted for about one percent of Medibank Private's total benefit payments.
Medibank Private Managing Director George Savvides said that, importantly, members' PackageBonus dollar entitlements are not affected by the change, and members can still claim benefits on a wide range of health-related services.
"Our PackagePlus members will still be able to claim for services including quit smoking courses, first aid courses, weight management programs, and health therapies including remedial massage and yoga," Mr Savvides said.
"Members can also continue to use their PackageBonus to 'top up' their hospital benefits, or to meet any hospital or extras out-of-pocket expenses."
Mr Savvides said that for a limited time, PackagePlus members will also be able to take advantage of some special offers, including discount rates on air travel and accommodation. The offers have been arranged without spending members' contribution income, or the Federal Government's 30% private health insurance rebate.
"We have looked at innovative ways that we can continue to offer our PackagePlus members added value with their health cover," Mr Savvides said.
"We have leveraged our position as Australia's largest private health fund and partnered with a range of organisations to deliver a range of great offers for our PackagePlus members."