Medibank Private announced today that it would establish new retail outlets in Tasmania following RACT's decision to end its relationship as a distributor for Australia's leading private health insurer. While disappointed to end the relationship, Medibank Private welcomes the opportunity to re-evaluate and improve member services throughout the state.
Medibank Private will continue to provide services through RACT outlets until close of business on April 15th. Following this date, alternative Medibank Private service points will be available for members, so there will be minimal disruption to services.
Medibank Private services are currently provided through RACT outlets in Rosny, Kingston, Glenorchy, Devonport, and Burnie. Medibank Private's retail centres in Hobart and Launceston will remain open for business-as-usual.
Dedicated Medibank Private staff will step into the RACT centres in the south of the state as of Monday January 31st and arrangements in outlets in the north of the state will remain unchanged to service all members needs.
During the transition to a new enhanced retail network, Medibank Private will ensure member access through short-term alternatives, such as kiosks in nearby shopping centres and in-store facilities with alternative partners.
Liz Makin, Medibank Private State Sales Manager for Tasmania said, "Even though RACT's decision to exit the partnership came as a surprise we accept it and look forward to new partnerships with Tasmanian businesses and an enhanced retail presence".
"We are confident that the situation does not compromise our ability to continue to provide a high level of service and meet our commitments to our members."
"Our thanks go to the RACT team who for the past six years have served many of our Tasmanian members as if they were part of the Medibank family" said Ms Makin.
Tasmanian members are also reminded of the other ways to make a claim or pay a premium - they can visit the Hobart or Launceston retail centres or send a claim form, together with the accounts and receipts and any other relevant documentation, to Medibank Private, GPO Box 9999, Hobart. Claim forms are available from www.medibank.com.au, or by contacting the Customer Care Line on 132 331. Premiums can be paid at any Australia Post outlet, online at www.medibank.com.au using a Credit Card, or using BPAY� through their participating financial institution.
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For further information contact:
Trish Hyde, Public Affairs Manager, Medibank Private PH: 03 8622 5181