Edition 72
September 2011
Message from the Manager
Federal Government Legislative Changes
The continued threat of the previously announced changes to the Contributions Rebate Means Test for higher income earners, and the associated increase in Medicare Levy Surcharge for those who do not have, or who drop out of private health insurance hospital cover persists.
There is still a good chance that the Bill will be defeated in the Lower House, and to this end we seek your support in ‘signing’ the online petition, as mentioned below. Bear in mind that if this passes, and some members drop out of private health insurance, costs will inevitably rise for those that continue to be covered.
Should the Bill pass into legislation, you will be advised of the detail of the changes and how they may affect you, firstly via the fund website, and in further issues of HealthLinks. The anticipated start date is 1st January 2012.
Phoenix Health Fund understands the importance that the rebate can have on providing affordable Private Health Cover for all Australians. If you would like to help save your rebate, then show your support by jumping online at www.youshouldknow.com.au.
For more information, please call Phoenix Health Fund on 1800 028 817.
Fund Financial Performance - Year Ended June 2011
Yet again the Fund has achieved a ‘healthy’ surplus. The final discussions are happening with the auditors, and the resultant surplus, while lower than last year, is close to expectations.
Investment returns were again excellent, contributing to our good result.
The YoungSavers products continue to perform well, with sustained growth in this product area, assisted by continued growth in the Top Cover product.
The Annual Report and AGM Notices will be issued when available, and you will be advised when placed on our website.
William Beaton
Chief Executive Officer
The Back Page
Ambulance Cover and Your Membership
Have you taken the steps to ensure you are covered for Ambulance Cover in the state in which you reside? Refer to the table below to find out how you are covered for Ambulance transport.
| State | Your Phoenix Cover | How to be Covered |
|---|---|---|
| NSW/ACT | Any product that includes hospital cover | No cost for members with hospital cover |
| NSW/ACT | Ancillary only | Take out Ambulance only cover with a fund that offers it then claim the cost back from Phoenix |
| VIC | Any product that includes ancillary cover | Join VIC Ambulance service, then claim the cost back from Phoenix |
| SA | Any product that includes ancillary cover | Join SA Ambulance service, then claim the cost back from Phoenix |
| QLD | Not applicable for your Phoenix cover | Covered by QLD State Government |
| WA | Any product that includes ancillary cover | Take out Ambulance only cover with a fund that offers it then claim the cost back from Phoenix |
| NT | Any product that includes ancillary cover | Take out Ambulance only cover with a fund that offers it then claim the cost back from Phoenix |
| TAS | Not applicable for your Phoenix cover | Covered by TAS State Government |
Do a Friend a Favour - Earn a $100 EFTPOS Gift Card
Phoenix Health Fund’s refer-a-friend promotion is back and the rewards on offer are better than ever.
Do you know anyone that would benefit from becoming an eligible member of Phoenix Health Fund? If you do, let them know, and if they join before 31st December 2011, both you and your referred friend will receive a free $100 EFTPOS Gift Card that can be spent anywhere that accepts EFTPOS transactions. How good is that!?
The promotion is open to close family members, workmates and friends and best of all, there is no limit as to how many times you can claim the promotion.
Not sure if they’re eligible? They can find out at www.phnx.com.au or contact us on 1800 028 817.
Make sure the new member completes the referral details form and sends it in with their application. We will then send you both your gift cards.
Send Us Your Email
Looking at simplifying your communications with us? Simply send us your email, by either calling our office or emailing us at enquiries@phoenixhealthfund.com.au. Phoenix Health Fund ensures that we will use your email address only for communicating with you.
