This was the beginning of a sentence I heard on an interview in my car on the way home the other evening. Some new politician was complaining and stating that all Kiwis should be entitled to get random colonoscopies if they feel uncertain (self– diagnosed feeling) about their bowel health.
Putting politics aside, this statement is mind-blowing.
Firstly, I think we would all mostly agree that our health workers do an outstanding job. The quality of care in our public system is incredible.
Sure, the décor could be better and the beds softer. Perhaps restaurant-quality food would be ideal. But for goodness’ sake, this politician needs a quick education!
Capacity and funding are the major challenges for the Public Health System. New Zealand does not stand alone here.
The Hospital system is mostly geared toward acute situations where a delay could be life-threatening.
The system tries to keep up with elective/non-acute situations like hip replacements but struggles with capacity and funding.
Imagine if the system had to try to cope and pay for folk who just want a check because ‘my neighbour had issues and feel I may have issues as well’! That is called health surveillance!
We could put almost all our tax dollars into the Public Health System and still not keep up. There are two main drivers here.
1. We have an ageing population. There are more of us getting patched up, given medication, and sent on our way to enjoy longer lives. More of us alive at an older age than ever before, causing the system to creak as capacity is stretched. Access becomes difficult.
2. Medical Technology. This costs money to develop. Although it keeps us going longer it pushes up the cost of treatments putting pressure on funding. Medical Inflation runs far higher than ordinary inflation.
So, if we were trying to build into the system room for folk that just feel like they want a colonoscopy (or some other surveillance procedure, just so they can be sure) and have the Government (us, through tax) pay, then this would be horrendous. Naturally, if someone has worrying symptoms, it’s different; they should get help.
By the way, there are private facilities that will take your money for these events.
There are two main reasons why health insurance makes sense: Access and Funding. In other words, faster treatment that’s funded.
Access: The private medical system gives you better access than the public system. You’ll have faster access to treatment for medical deterioration such as knee or hip degeneration, as well as for many more serious health conditions.
It is not unusual for those waiting for treatment in the public system for their health to further deteriorate while they wait their turn for treatment.
Funding: Private medical insurance means your insurer will fund the treatment you require. Your adviser can explain in detail any limitations or exclusions.
Better access and funding often enable our clients to get back on their feet far quicker than they may have.
Want to find out more about how medical insurance might fit your situation? Talk to us now: 09 307 9300
