Our Mortgage and Insurance Adviser Judy Steiner shares the personal journey she and her husband Dan are currently facing, and how health insurance has played a vital role in supporting them through it.
After many years working in the insurance industry, Judy never expected to become one of her own client stories. But sometimes life has a way of reminding you why the cover you recommend can matter so much.
When everything changed
In 2024, Judy’s husband Dan was diagnosed with rectal cancer. It was a huge shock for their family, but because they had private health insurance in place, Judy knew the first step was clear. Lodge a claim straight away.
Within days of the diagnosis, Dan was receiving treatment through the private healthcare system. The speed of access and the level of care made an enormous difference during a very stressful time.
Dan completed ten cycles of treatment and coped remarkably well. While there were some side effects, the medical team supported him closely throughout the process.
The journey continues
After completing the first round of treatment, Judy and Dan were able to take a three-month break with a trip overseas that had been planned before the diagnosis. Being able to still take that time away together was a welcome relief.
While Dan’s cancer has since spread, he has begun a new series of treatments using non-pharmaceutical drugs. Throughout the experience, the support of their health insurance has given the family invaluable peace of mind.
For Judy, some of the biggest benefits have been:
- Avoiding long waiting lists in the public health system
- Not needing to worry about how treatment would be funded
- Allowing Dan to maintain a good quality of life during treatment
Judy believes that access to private medical care has played a significant role in helping Dan continue his fight.
“Looking back, paying those insurance premiums has been one of the best investments we’ve made,” she says.
Making health insurance more accessible
One thing Judy often hears from clients is that health insurance feels too expensive. In many cases, she says, that’s because people haven’t explored the options properly.
“Yes, it can be expensive – but only if you don’t work with an adviser who helps you find a price point that works for your situation.”
With the right advice, it’s often possible to structure a policy that balances the level of cover with what a family can comfortably afford.
Protecting your family
Serious health challenges are never something people plan for, but having the right cover in place can make a significant difference when life takes an unexpected turn.
If you’d like to explore how health insurance could work for your situation and budget, talk to Judy and our team about the options available.
