We don't usually employ scare tactics to get people to think about their insurance, but today is the exception to that rule. If you do nothing else for the sake of your health this year, please invest three minutes of your time to watch this recent Seven Sharp story. Peter Kroon was referred by his GP for a "Priority 1" specialist appointment (to be seen within two weeks), which he waited 6 months for… this story shows the frightening outcome.
Fair warning - it's not a pleasant watch, but it is a real life story that really highlights why private medical insurance is so important. Watch the story.
When the article finished playing last week, I said to my husband "this is why we have medical insurance, and why we will never cancel it". We are both fit and healthy now, but if either of us needs any specialist consultations, I'm secure in the knowledge that I won't have to wait months just to make an appointment - I can call and make a time the same day I'm referred, and get in relatively quickly.
The harsh reality in New Zealand is that you can't rely on public health to look after your best interests. I'm not bagging the health professionals by any means; it is the system that is lacking. Having private medical insurance lets you bypass the public waiting lists, giving you the best care in the fastest possible time; which is obviously critical when it comes to more aggressive medical conditions.
The time to apply for medical insurance is before you experience any health issues, to ensure you are covered as you age. We are here to help … if you want to discuss medical insurance, get in touch … we can provide a range of quotes with different providers, help with the application process and most importantly, we manage your claims.
Are you willing to give up control of your future health to a failing public system, or would you rather keep your destiny in your own hands?