Private health insurers are not lying down in response to surveys and websites attacking the sector.
Private Healthcare Australia will launch an online campaign next week, Private Health Public Benefit, designed to promote private health insurance, particularly among young Australians.
Reforms announced by health minister Greg Hunt aimed at reducing upward pressure on premiums, resulting in the lowest average premium rise in 17 years, have been met with criticism and what Private Healthcare Australia believes is a systematic attempt to discourage young people taking out private health insurance.
Labor subsequently announced that, if elected, it will cap annual increases at two percent for two years and direct the Productivity Commission to conduct an inquiry into the sector.
Last week it launched an online survey soliciting consumer feedback on private health insurance following the release of a report from the Consumers Health Forum.
The Private Healthcare Australia campaign aims to counter the negativity, particularly aimed at younger Australians, and encourage them to tell their positive story.
The campaign will include a short-story competition based on their experience of private healthcare, with winners selected by a judging panel comprised of representatives from private health insurers, healthcare professionals and private hospitals.