In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, we’re further delaying premium rises for eligible recipients of the Federal Government’s COVID-19 JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments.
The additional support recognises the financial hardship faced by members who have lost their jobs or had their income reduced as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Rate increases for all members were deferred from 1 April this year until 1 October. JobKeeper and JobSeeker recipients can apply for a further deferral – to 1 April 2021 – to help ease financial pressure.
Who is eligible?
You can apply to have your current premiums frozen if:
- You’re currently receiving a JobKeeper or JobSeeker government support payment
- You joined Latrobe prior to 1 October 2020, and are on a cover that is impacted by a premium increase effective 1 October 2020.
How do I apply to defer my rate increase?
You’ll need to apply using our JobKeeper JobSeeker Deferral Application Form and supply the relevant documentation in support of your application. This will include proof that you are receiving JobKeeper or JobSeeker payments. Please email info@lhs.com.au or phone 1300 362 144 and we’ll assist you.
What if I’m not receiving JobKeeper, JobSeeker or another eligible government payment?
All members benefitted from our decision to defer our 2020 premium increase for six months, from 1 April to 1 October.
We’ve now completed our 2020 rate review to ensure our prices are fair but also take into account the rising cost of health care.
The result is that some premiums will increase on 1 October, while for others the pricing will remain as is. All members will receive a letter during September detailing any changes to their insurance premiums.
If your circumstances have changed or you are finding it tough financially, you may wish to review your cover or call us on 1300 362 144 to discuss how we may be able to support you.
What else is Latrobe doing to support its members through the pandemic?
As a not-for-profit health insurer, we’re here for our members. We’ve recognised that this year, it’s more important than ever to stand by our members and support their health.
In addition to delaying premium increases, we’ve put in place measures to support members facing financial stress and to ensure we continue to deliver great value for money. These include:
- Hardship suspensions - members doing it particularly tough can apply to suspend premium payments or downgrade their cover temporarily. We’ve already supported 600 of our members in this way (download our Hardship Application Form)
- Telehealth benefits - coverage for extras services delivered via telephone or video-conferencing
- Cover for Coronavirus-related hospital admissions, no matter what level of hospital cover you are on.
What next?
As always, we’re here to help – if you’d like a chat with one of our friendly Member Experience Consultants about how we can support you, give us a call on 1300 362 144.