New private health insurer AIA Health Insurance says it will provide cash refunds to up to 40,000 members experiencing restricted access to extras services because of COVID-19.

A spokesperson said the company recognised that many members were unable to receive the full benefits of their extras cover because of limitations to key services including dental, physio and optical due to the pandemic.

AIA Australia chief health insurance officer Tim Tez said: “This is undoubtedly the right thing to do for our members given the restrictions and disruptions to services during COVID-19. By taking this action, we’re putting money back in our members’ pockets to support their financial wellbeing during this challenging time.”

The initiative will see members receive a minimum 50 per cent refund on their extras policy from 1 April 2020 to 31 December 2020, less any claims paid for extras used by the member. Total refund amounts would be calculated at the end of the year and premiums returned directly to members, the spokesperson said, but the following “ballpark” cash-back amounts were provided.

“An AIA Health member can now receive a refund up to: 

Singles:  $900* 

Family: $1800* 

(*This calculation is based on members who hold top level extras, are an existing customer (April–December), have reached AIA Vitality status of Platinum and have had no ancillary claims.)”