Health Insurance Australia

Well, you need not fret no more the next time you require treatment! A local insurance company, Medibank Private Health Insurance recently announced the opening of Australia’s first Rapid Care Clinic in Brisbane which offers urgent medical treatment for minor injuries.

The clinic promises patients faster treatment for injuries and illnesses that require immediate attention but which are not life-threatening. Injuries treated include sprains and strains, cuts and abrasions, broken bones, minor burns and sporting injuries. People suffering from viruses, headaches and migraines can also be present for treatment.

Open from extended hours from 8am-9pm 7 days a week, 365 days a year, it mainly caters for families and sporting injuries, and is open to members and non-members alike though members will be offered special discount for treatment. Patients require no appointment, and will receive medical care within an hour of arrival.

National Chart Toppers 2010 – Procedure & Total Benefit List

1   Neonatal surgery and post-operative care:   $439,626
2   Neonatal surgery and post-operative care:   $350,420
3   Neonatal surgery and post-operative care:   $281,669
4   Neonatal surgery and post-operative care:   $277,289
5   Acute respiratory failure:   $269,972
6   Coronary artery bypass:    $246,869
7   Bowel surgery – rectal resection:     $241,052
8   Oesophagectomy with gastric reconstruction:    $240,500
9   Neonatal surgery and post-operative care:   $214,102
10   Bowel surgery – hemicolectomy:   $203,672

“In 2009 we paid 44,164 claims over $10,000, an increase in 23 percent from 2008, a dramatic increase that is emblematic of growing costs in all areas of the Australian health system.

“These figures also illustrate the limits to self-insurance. With costs of $10,000 and above increasingly common, and health costs growing as fast as they are, people relying on self insurance are risking their financial and their physical health,” he said.

In financial year 2008-09 Medibank Private paid a total of $2.36 billion in hospital and medical benefits, an increase of 10% from the previous year. Medibank Private members were admitted 862,748 hospital admissions in the period.