Fed: Hotline on private health insurance trialled in Canberra

AAP General News (Australia)
02-01-2000
Fed: Hotline on private health insurance trialled in Canberra

A telephone hotline to guide consumers through the maze of private health insurance
options is being considered by the federal government, in a bid to boost the take-up rate.

Health Minister MICHAEL WOOLDRIDGE says there's growing evidence consumers are delaying
signing up to private insurance because they're confused by the options and providers.

The government will trial a hotline service in Canberra for six weeks to help decide
if a telephone hotline is the best way to help consumers choose the right insurance product.

Dr WOOLDRIDGE says the hotline won't recommend a specific health fund or product, but
will explain the technical language and arm consumers with the nececssary details to make
an informed choice.

The hotline number, available 8am to 8pm weekdays and 9am to 6pm on weekends in Canberra
only, is 1800 443 258.

AAP RTV kmh/tso/jn

KEYWORD: INSURANCE (CANBERRA)

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