Bupa has welcomed the re-election of the Coalition with managing director Dr Dwayne Crombie saying the insurer would like to contribute to any discussion on reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Dr Crombie's comment follows the chief executive of Private Healthcare Australia, Dr Rachel David, who described the sector as "relieved" in response to the election outcome.
“We need to make sure value for our customers is at the centre of everything we do,” said Dr Crombie.
“Health insurers like Bupa need to work cooperatively with governments to look at reform across the entire health sector, not just singling out insurers.”
Private health insurers consistently expressed concern over Labor's proposal to cap premium increases at two per cent for two years, saying it posed a serious threat to small health funds and competition in the sector.
“Everyone in the health system, whether they are GPs, specialists, hospitals, governments or insurers needs to put consumers front and centre,” said Dr Crombie.
“We can’t afford to carry on as if it’s business as usual. The pressure is on us all to come up with ideas and policies that will ensure the sustainability of the public/private balance that serves Australia well.”