Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

HCF partners with HealthShare to help members take control of out-of-pocket costs

  • Written by Hamish Walsh



Sydney, 14 February, 2019 – A new initiative launched by not-for-profit health fund HCF will give members valuable information on the out-of-pocket expenses charged by individual specialists. The digital platform, developed in partnership with HealthShare, is the first of its kind designed to ensure members have the tools they need to avoid or minimise gap payments.

 

The initiative, available via the HealthShare website, will allow members to access data about typical out-of-pocket expenses.

 

Dr Andrew Cottrill, HCF’s Medical Director, says HCF recognises that out-of-pocket expenses associated with medical procedures are a significant problem and a major pain point for consumers.

 

“Fees can vary widely between medical specialists and it is difficult for consumers to make informed decisions when selecting healthcare providers. We are advocating for increased transparency around costs for our members. By developing this platform, we want to empower our members to make decisions with a greater awareness of the potential out of pocket costs they may face” said Dr Cottrill.

 

HealthShare’s find-a-provider directory also helps members find local specialists participating in HCF’s Known Gap or No Gap scheme called Medicover.

 

According to Dr Cottrill, “We previously made information available about how frequently specialists charge less than $500 in out-of-pocket expenses by using our Medicover scheme. Now we have taken the next step to clearly show what their out-of-pocket costs may be based on our claims data”.

 

The data will also be available to general practitioners via their clinical software to help inform discussions with patients about the likely cost of treatment for HCF members.

 

Mr Rami Weiss, HealthShare CEO said “At HealthShare, we believe that the best health decisions are informed ones – especially when it comes to choosing the right specialist for each person’s needs. That’s why our independent platform provides patients and their GPs with key information about a specialist, including their clinical expertise, practice locations, fees, availability and more”.

 

Both HCF and HealthShare are dedicated to helping consumers access a range of information to enable better health choices. The online platform, which receives over 500,000 unique visitors each month, allows Australians to search for specialists and gather information, such as fees, sub-specialties, special interest areas, location, hospital affiliations and languages spoken. It is also designed to allow specialists to add their own fee information to their profiles as a way to better inform patients and returning doctors.

 

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

 

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, and 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 Healthy Weight for Life programs, mobile Victor Chang Heart Health Checks, Thank You rewards program and preparing for hospital online tool. 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

 

ABOUT HEALTHSHARE

A health tech company founded in 2010, HealthShare uses technology as a tool to improve efficiencies and enable connections between patients and healthcare professionals, health programs and information.

HealthShare is an award winning company and regularly features in the Deloitte Top 50 and 500 lists; Westpac 200 Businesses of Tomorrow Award (2017), Deloitte Technology Fast 50 (2018, 2014), Deloitte Technology Fast 500 (2017, 2016, 2015).

Business

Powering Shepparton’s Businesses: Expert Commercial Electrical Services You Can Count On

When it comes to running a successful business, having reliable, compliant, and efficient electrical systems is non-negotiable. From small retail outlets to large-scale industrial operations, every commercial facility depends on...

The Smart Way to Grow Online: SEO Management Sydney Businesses Can Rely On

If you’re a Sydney-based business owner, you already know the digital space is crowded. But with the right strategy, you don’t need to shout the loudest — you just need...

Building a Governance Model for Headless Content Management at Scale

Image by pch.vector on Freepik There's never been a better time to implement a headless content management system (CMS) to gain the flexibility and scalability necessary for developing digital experiences...

Understanding Trade Insurance: Essential Protection for Businesses

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik In the current economic environment, trade insurance is an important element for companies trading both locally and internationally. This is a type of insurance that reduces...

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Managed IT Solutions and IT Services in Townsville

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, companies must adapt to embrace the transformation ahead. With an evolving technology landscape, managing technology effectively is a strategic priority for every North...

Maximising Operational Efficiency: Electric Winch Hire Australia and Hydraulic Power Pack Hire Solutions

Image by jcomp on Freepik From urban construction sites and remote mining operations to coastal maritime facilities, specialised equipment solutions are integral across Australia's varying industrial landscape to deliver project success...

How to Save Smart: Cheapest Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa without Cutting Corners

Picture this: you’ve found a last-minute flight to Milan, your hotel booking comes with breakfast and a rooftop view, and your itinerary is ready ...

Keeping Lone and Remote Workers Safe: Employer Duties and Practical Solutions

In Australia, thousands of employees work alone, in remote locations, or in direct contact with the public every day. While these roles are critical...

How Your General Dentist Supports Your Smile Over a Lifetime

A healthy grin is more than just a desirable feature; it reflects overall health, well-being, and self-esteem. Our oral health needs evolve from chi...

A Brighter Smile in Sydney: Expert Cosmetic Dentists and Veneers Solutions

A confident smile can open doors, boost your self-esteem, and leave a lasting impression. In Sydney, more people than ever are turning to cosmetic den...

How To Keep Vase Flowers Fresh Through Australia’s Coldest Months

Winter flowers develop slowly, which gives them stronger structure and longer vase life Heat from indoor environments is the biggest threat to th...

Artificial Intelligence is Powering the Growth of Australian Telehealth Services

Many Australians have traditionally experienced difficulties in accessing timely and quality healthcare, especially those who live in rural or remot...

VR Training in Australia – Customer Service Risk Management

In today’s rapidly evolving workplaces, Australian organisations are turning to immersive learning tools like VR to handle specialised needs such ...

Powering Shepparton’s Businesses: Expert Commercial Electrical Services You Can Count On

When it comes to running a successful business, having reliable, compliant, and efficient electrical systems is non-negotiable. From small retail ou...

Maximise Efficiency: Cleaner Solar Panels for Optimal Performance

Solar panels are a smart investment in energy efficiency, sustainability, and long-term savings—especially here in Cairns, where the tropical sun ...

7 Common Air Conditioner Issues in Melbourne – And How to Fix Them

Image by freepik Living in Melbourne, we all know how unpredictable the weather can be. One moment it’s cold and windy, the next it’s a scorchin...

Powering Palm QLD with Reliable Electrical Solutions

Image by pvproductions on Freepik When it comes to finding a trustworthy electrician Palm QLD locals can count on, the team at East Coast Sparkies s...

The Smart Way to Grow Online: SEO Management Sydney Businesses Can Rely On

If you’re a Sydney-based business owner, you already know the digital space is crowded. But with the right strategy, you don’t need to shout the...

What Your Car Says About You: The Personality Behind the Vehicle

You can tell a lot about someone by the car they drive—or at least, that’s what people think. True Blue Mobile Mechanics reckon the car says a l...

The Confidence Curve: Why Boudoir Photography Is the Empowerment Trend You Didn’t Know You Needed

Boudoir photography has been quietly taking over social feeds, Pinterest boards, and personal milestones—and for good reason. It’s not just abou...

Understanding Level 2 Electricians: Why Sydney Residents Need Licenced Experts for Complex Electrical Work

When it comes to electrical work around the home or business, not all electricians are created equal. In Sydney, particularly when you're dealing wi...

Retirement Anchored in Model Boat Building for Waterford’s Doug Unsold

WATERFORD — When Doug Unsold sees his ship come in, it’s usually one he’s crafted with his own hands. The 67-year-old retiree from Waterford ...

The Science Behind Alarm Clocks and Your Circadian Rhythm

Waking up on time isn’t just about setting an alarm—it’s about working with your body, not against it. At the heart of every restful night and...

How to Use Plants to Create a Calming Atmosphere in Your Home

In today’s fast-paced world, cultivating a calm, soothing environment at home has never been more important. Whether you live in a busy urban apar...