Q: What are the options available when I need a specific treatment, medication, or medical investigation?

A: When one of our members requires a particular treatment, medicine, or medical investigation, we have two primary ways we can help:

1. Public Healthcare Provider Recommendation:
   • We can draft and send a letter to your public healthcare provider. This letter will include our recommendation for a certain treatment, medicine, or investigation that we believe could benefit your health. This will be based on current published guidance and best practice.
   • It’s important to note that while we provide this recommendation to your public healthcare provider, the final decision rests with them. They can evaluate our recommendation within the context of your overall health and decide whether to act on our recommendation.
2. Referral for Private Care:
   • If you prefer a more immediate or specialized route, we can refer you for private care. This includes but is not limited to:
     • Prescriptions from one of our independent prescribers who are familiar with the recommendations we make
     • Blood tests from one of our partner pathology laboratories
     • Medication dispensed from one of our partner pharmacies
     • Specialist opinions from a different private doctor or other healthcare professional
     • Diagnostic services like blood tests or X-rays at a private hospital local to you
     • Other specific investigations that may be required for your health

If you wish us to write you a recommendation, letter or referral to either your public health service or to a private service, please let us know.