Dunne backs call for health insurance tax deductibility


UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne today backed calls from the chief executive of Southern Cross Healthcare for a fresh look at making health insurance premiums tax deductible.

“Dr Ian McPherson is correct when he says the public health system cannot provide timely care for all New Zealanders today, and that demand will only increase as New Zealand’s population ages,” Mr Dunne said.

He said that UnitedFuture had previously campaigned on tax concessions to recognise the savings created by those who choose to have private health insurance, or pay for private treatment for those over 65.

“This policy not only recognises the contribution made by that age group in our community that has the greatest need for our health services, but it also ensures that some of the pressure on our public system is relieved with patients able to access the private healthcare system.”

UnitedFuture’s Confidence and Supply Agreement with the National-led Government also embraces the need for greater utilisation of the private healthcare sector to address these growing pressures, Mr Dunne said

“This is particularly with regard to elective surgery and incentivising people to continue to take up private health insurance is one way of meeting this demand.

“It is an approach I have been closely examining both in my capacity as minister of revenue and associate minister of health,” Mr Dunne said.

ENDS

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