28 October 2008
News release
New Decision Means One Fifth Of New Zealanders Now Have The Option Of Private Radiotherapy
A private radiotherapy benefit has been introduced for around 840,000 Southern Cross health insurance members.
This new benefit for cancer treatment has been added to applicable Southern Cross policies for today’s opening of New
Zealand’s first private radiation therapy clinic - Auckland Radiation Oncology (ARO).
Southern Cross Medical Care Society CEO, Dr Ian McPherson, said now that this treatment is available in private, the
benefit is something members are likely to welcome, given the prevalence of cancer in New Zealand and the constraints on
the public system.
On behalf of Southern Cross members, the Medical Care Society has negotiated an Affiliated Provider contract with ARO.
This means ease of claiming and certainty of prices for members.
“Any new benefit provided needs to be covered through members’ premiums. As a not-for-profit organisation, operating
solely for the benefit of our members, Southern Cross’ ability to source affordable treatment is extremely important.”
said Dr McPherson.
“We are confident that this benefit will offer optimal cover for members. The new benefit for radiation therapy
treatment will be effective immediately.”
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