Income Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

AMA Calls for Urgent Reforms in Private Health Insurance Sector

Australians Face Rising Premiums and Reduced Coverage Benefits

AMA Calls for Urgent Reforms in Private Health Insurance Sector?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has released a report indicating that private health insurance is increasingly failing to deliver value for money.
The report highlights that premiums have risen sharply, outpacing inflation and wage growth, while nearly 70% of policies now contain exclusions for specific treatments or conditions.

Dr. Danielle McMullen, AMA President, emphasized that Australians are paying more for their private health insurance and getting less value in return. The report also found significant variations in the benefits paid by insurers for the same procedures, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction among policyholders.

In response, the AMA is calling for insurers to pay at least 90% of their earnings directly into patient healthcare and for the establishment of an independent authority to oversee the health insurance sector. These reforms aim to enhance transparency, ensure fair pricing, and improve the overall value of private health insurance for Australians.

For beauticians and small business owners in the beauty industry, these developments underscore the importance of carefully reviewing health insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage. As premiums rise and coverage becomes more complex, staying informed and seeking professional advice can help in making informed decisions about health insurance options.

Published:Wednesday, 8th Apr 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australian Medical Association Advocates for Reforms in Private Health Insurance
Australian Medical Association Advocates for Reforms in Private Health Insurance
19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has intensified its call for comprehensive reforms in the private health insurance sector, particularly in response to the recent 4.41% average premium increase effective from April 2026. This hike, the largest in nearly a decade, has raised concerns about the affordability and value of private health coverage for Australians. - read more
Australian Government Outlaws 'Product Phoenixing' in Health Insurance
Australian Government Outlaws 'Product Phoenixing' in Health Insurance
19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has introduced legislation to prohibit the practice known as 'product phoenixing' within the private health insurance sector. This move aims to enhance transparency and fairness for consumers by preventing insurers from closing existing policies and reintroducing nearly identical ones at higher premiums. - read more
HCF and Netball Australia Strengthen Commitment to Women's Health
HCF and Netball Australia Strengthen Commitment to Women's Health
19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
HCF, Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund, has announced the extension of its major partnership with Netball Australia and Super Netball, continuing as the sport's official health insurance partner through to the end of 2027. This renewal underscores HCF's dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of Australian women by supporting netball at all levels-from grassroots participation to elite competition. - read more
Gold-Level Health Insurance Premiums to Surge by Up to 25% in 2026
Gold-Level Health Insurance Premiums to Surge by Up to 25% in 2026
19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent analysis by consumer advocacy group CHOICE has revealed that Australians holding gold-level health insurance policies may face premium increases of up to 25% starting in April 2026. This substantial hike significantly exceeds the average 4.41% increase approved by the government for private health insurance premiums. - read more
Instanda's AI Innovation: Transforming Commercial Underwriting
Instanda's AI Innovation: Transforming Commercial Underwriting
19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Instanda, a leading provider of insurance technology solutions, has unveiled an artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to revolutionize commercial underwriting. This innovative system addresses the longstanding challenge of balancing speed and accuracy in the underwriting process, a critical aspect for consultants seeking efficient and reliable insurance coverage. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Combining Financial Security and Affordability: Income Protection for Australians Explained
Combining Financial Security and Affordability: Income Protection for Australians Explained
Financial security is a cornerstone of peace of mind, particularly when life is known for its unpredictability. This introductory section sheds light on the vital nature of income protection insurance and its role in safeguarding Australians' financial well-being. Ensuring continual financial inflow during times of illness or injury not only offers stability but also protects one's standard of living. - read more
Income Protection Insurance and Tax Benefits: What You Should Know
Income Protection Insurance and Tax Benefits: What You Should Know
Income protection insurance is a type of cover designed to provide you with a safety net if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. By offering regular payments that replace a portion of your income, it helps ensure that you can maintain your lifestyle and cover essential expenses during challenging times. - read more
How to Compare Income Protection Insurance for Self-Employed Australians
How to Compare Income Protection Insurance for Self-Employed Australians
For self-employed Australians, the financial stability provided by consistent income is the backbone of both personal and business success. Unlike traditional employees, who might have access to sick leave or employer-sponsored disability benefits, self-employed individuals are solely responsible for their financial security in the event of illness or injury. This is where income protection insurance steps in as a crucial safeguard. - read more
Income Protection vs. Life Insurance: What's Best for You?
Income Protection vs. Life Insurance: What's Best for You?
Financial protection is an essential aspect of sound financial planning. It ensures that you and your family are safeguarded against unexpected events that could lead to financial hardship. Two common types of financial protection are income protection insurance and life insurance. - read more
Separating Fact from Fiction: The Myths of Income Insurance Revealed
Separating Fact from Fiction: The Myths of Income Insurance Revealed
Have you ever thought about how you would manage financially if you couldn't work due to an illness or injury? Income protection insurance is designed to replace a significant portion of your income if you find yourself unable to earn for an extended period. It's an essential safety net, providing peace of mind and financial stability during times of uncertainty. - read more

Knowledgebase
Insurance Premium:
The periodic amount paid for the purchase of insurance.