Private Healthcare Australia has welcomed today’s Senate decision to remove the Government’s proposed cuts to the higher private health insurance rebate for older Australians from the Senate’s agenda.
PHA CEO Dr Rachel David thanked the thousands of older Australians, families, health professionals and community organisations who spoke up about the impact the cuts would have had on millions of people, including more than 1.5 million pensioners.
“This is a powerful demonstration of how much older Australians value their health insurance and the security, choice and access to care it provides.
“We thank everyone who shared their stories, contacted their local MPs and made their voices heard. Their advocacy has helped ensure the concerns of older Australians could not be ignored.
“Health funds understand the challenges of an ageing population and the growing need for care for people living with complex chronic conditions. We are ready to work constructively with the Government on sustainable solutions that support older Australians and Australia’s health system.
“But meaningful reform requires genuine consultation with health funds, older Australians, clinicians and other stakeholders. We need to work together to understand the impacts and identify the best path forward - one that protects access to care while ensuring the system remains sustainable for future generations.”
