Public Vs. Private Payment
The burden for the core of the healthcare system rests with government expenditure (approx. 77%). Private payment by individuals also plays an important role in the overall system although the cost of these payments are comparatively minor.
Damage as a result of "accidents", ranging from minor to major physical and psychological trauma, is generally completely covered by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). This may include coverage for doctors visits and lump-sum payments.
Those earning less than certain amounts, depending on the number of dependents in their household, can qualify for a Community Services Card (CSC), which reduces the upfront fee for visiting a doctor.
Hospital and specialist care, on the other hand, is totally covered by the government if the patient is referred by a general or family practitioner.
Read more about this topic: Health In New Zealand
Famous quotes containing the words public, private and/or payment:
“The future of America may or may not bring forth a black President, a woman President, a Jewish President, but it most certainly always will have a suburban President. A President whose senses have been defined by the suburbs, where lakes and public baths mutate into back yards and freeways, where walking means driving, where talking means telephoning, where watching means TV, and where living means real, imitation life.”
—Arthur Kroker (b. 1945)
“Remember that you are an actor in a drama, of such a part as it may please the master to assign you, for a long time or for a little as he may choose. And if he will you to take the part of a poor man, or a cripple, or a ruler, or a private citizen, then may you act that part with grace! For to act well the part that is allotted to us, that indeed is ours to do, but to choose it is another’s.”
—Epictetus (c. 55–135 B.C.)
“Put God in your debt. Every stroke shall be repaid. The longer the payment is withholden, the better for you; for compound interest on compound interest is the rate and usage of this exchequer.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)