AIA NZ has launched a new entry-level health insurance benefit designed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable.
The insurer says AIA Living Specialist and Testing Support (STS), which launched on October 1, provides cover for specialist consultations or diagnostic tests and procedures – without the need for comprehensive health insurance.
It notes that in response to growing cost-of-living pressures, many New Zealanders are reconsidering their private health insurance options.
“At the same time, increasing demand on the public health system is leading to longer wait times and delayed diagnoses. STS bridges this gap, offering a flexible and affordable solution that can support early access to care.”
…[It] responds directly to adviser feedback calling for more flexible health cover options…
AIA NZ says the benefit also “…serves as a retention tool for customers considering cancelling their private health insurance due to cost and responds directly to adviser feedback calling for more flexible health cover options.”
The company says that no other insurer in New Zealand currently offers a standalone specialist and testing cover, independent of comprehensive health insurance.
“STS is available as an optional add-on to eligible Life, Trauma, Income Protection, and Total Permanent Disablement insurance, including those from AIA’s Living range; subject to qualifying cover levels.”
AIA points to the key features of STS as:
- Up to $10,000 per year for specialist consultations (e.g. cardiologists, gastroenterologists, gynaecologists)
- Up to $100,000 per year for diagnostic tests and procedures (e.g. MRIs, colonoscopies, ECGs)
- Up to $1,500 for obstetric care and infertility treatment after two years of cover
- Faster access to diagnosis, helping customers get onto the public waiting list sooner if treatment is required
- Health screening allowance: Up to $500 or $750 for AIA Vitality members, every three years
- Excess options of $0 or $250 to help reduce premiums while maintaining faster access to specialist consultations or diagnostic tests and procedures
Alex Kühnast, AIA NZ Chief Product and Marketing Officer, says the firm knows that timely access to healthcare can make a difference in people’s lives.
“With STS, we’re giving customers a way to access specialist support and diagnostic testing earlier, helping them take the next step toward treatment with confidence.”
He says STS is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of customers “…from younger people starting out who want simple, affordable support for their health, to older customers looking to manage costs while still maintaining access to specialist care. It’s a smart, accessible option for anyone wanting to take proactive steps in their health journey.”