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nib holdings (ASX:NHF) creates a support package for struggling Aussies, donates $1M

ASX 200
ASX:NHF      MCAP $3.545B
28 March 2020 02:00 (AEST)

Healthcare fund, nib Holdings (NHF) has announced a member and community support package for people affected by coronavirus COVID-19.

The company has expanded its coverage so members now have access to hospital cover which includes chest, lung, kidney and bladder and other treatments relating to the virus.

This means over 560,000 members will now have access to COVID-19 treatment who would otherwise not be covered.

Members will be able to suspend payments for up to six months but will still be covered for COVID-19 treatments.

Managing Director Mark Fitzgibbon says the health insurer and the entire health insurance industry has an important and critical role to play in helping Australian’s through this challenging time.

“Many of our members confront profound uncertainty and the threat or reality of unemployment. We are doing as much as we can to help them maintain their cover and more broadly, stay safe and healthy,” he said.

The nib support package will be available for existing members for three months, however, it will be reviewed in June to see if this will need to be extended.

nib will also give a $1 million donation to support charities who are assisting the community during this pandemic.

“Beyond supporting our members we’re totally committed to having a role in ameliorating COVID-19 and are open minded to new initiatives and investments that could assist in containment and public health,” Mark said.

“The crisis has actually presented health insurers and the total private health system with a unique challenge to demonstrate how we can play an enhanced role in our total healthcare system,” he added.

On market close, nib is up 1.20 per cent and is selling shares for $5.04 apiece.

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