nib Group reassures members of coverage amid St Vincent’s Hospital negotiations

nib Group  has assured members scheduled for treatment at a St Vincent’s hospital that their coverage remains unchanged until at least October 3, as negotiations with the hospital group continue.

“There are no immediate changes to cover that would affect our members,” stated nib Chief Executive and Managing Director, Mark Fitzgibbon. “Treatment can proceed for any member with a booking, and in some cases, for several months after the termination of an agreement with the hospital, if that occurs.”

Should an agreement end, some coverage will extend beyond the termination. Treatments started before October 3 will continue until discharge. Pre-booked pregnancy and birth will be covered until July 2025. Additionally, rehabilitation, mental health, oncology, and renal services initiated on or before October 3, 2024, will be covered until April 2025.

Mr. Fitzgibbon emphasized nib’s long-term relationship with St Vincent’s and expressed hope for the resumption of negotiations. He also highlighted nib’s commitment to delivering value to its members. Currently, nib maintains contracts with over 90% of all private hospitals and medical facilities nationwide.

The dispute centers on the amount that nib is willing to pay for the treatment of its policyholders at St Vincent’s facilities.