It’s been 12 months since health insurer nib New Zealand launched its Covid-19 support package to help members who were affected by restrictions on trade and travel.
Released in April 2020, its package provided access to a range of initiatives to support member’s health and financial needs during the crisis.
More than $870,000 was provided in financial assistance in the form of premium waivers and suspensions, helping more than 2,000 nib members maintain their health cover.
Around 2,500 members were automatically granted a six-month pre-approval extension for any medical treatment delays they may have experienced.
Rob Hennin, the firm’s CEO, says its support enabled nib members to continue to put their health first.
“It’s been a particularly hard year for many,” he says. “We’re pleased that we’ve been able to support our members to maintain their health during this challenging period.”
The firm expanded coverage for Covid-19 related treatment to all members at no additional cost, while telehealth services helped them access GP or specialist services from home.
The insurer, together with the nib foundation, provided $1 million to community initiatives across both New Zealand and Australia to assist with the increasing demand for mental health support.