Health Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurer's Overcharge: A Case for Rigorous Internal Audits

Insurer's Overcharge: A Case for Rigorous Internal Audits

Insurer's Overcharge: A Case for Rigorous Internal Audits?w=400
An overlooked discrepancy by a life insurance company led to thousands of policyholders not receiving promised discounts, having continued unchecked for over a year.
This issue was unearthed following an unexpected internal audit, demonstrating the company's need for better oversight and auditing practices.

The lapse came to light when a random review uncovered that the obligations under the industry's code of conduct had been violated. The industry imposes strict guidelines for clarity in advertising and aligning quoted prices with what policyholders ultimately incur.

As outlined by a Life Code Compliance Committee report, "This case highlights the critical need for insurers to test and review the implementation of new pricing features to ensure they apply advertised benefits correctly."

Commenting further, the committee noted, "Failing to do so can result in financial detriment to customers and damage the trust between insurers and their customers, particularly when errors remain undetected for extended periods.”

This particular incident resulted in annual premiums being inaccurately charged to more than 4,000 customers, with an average overcharge of $8 each. The promised discount was supposed to be 2.5%, but customers only received a 2% reduction.

The insurer has outlined plans to rectify the situation by refunding the policyholders. Customers will be reimbursed the 0.5% difference, accompanied by an apology letter that clearly explains the oversight. Moreover, the company insists it has now corrected its systems to ensure that discounts are applied accurately in future policies.

Such cases shed light on an urgent necessity in the financial services industry for regular and thorough checks of internal procedures to upkeep transparency and customer trust. Providing leniencies on industry standards, as was the scenario here from the original report by The Source, results not only in monetary damage but also potential reputational risks for insurers.

The industry usually does not disclose names in its breach determinations, preserving confidentiality for those involved.

Published:Tuesday, 5th Nov 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Insurance Dispute Settled with New Rulings Insurance Dispute Settled with New Rulings
07 Nov 2024: Paige Estritori

In a recent adjudication, a property owner faced a coverage denial due to damage attributed to rodents, offering a revealing insight into insurance claim disputes. When a strata property holder reported water damage from a damaged dishwasher hose, her insurance claim was thwarted by the involvement of rodents. - read more
Financial Sectors Grapple With High Reporting of Breaches Financial Sectors Grapple With High Reporting of Breaches
07 Nov 2024: Paige Estritori

The landscape of financial services in Australia is facing challenges as recent disclosures highlight the magnitude of self-reported compliance breaches across industries. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) report for the last financial year has revealed that the insurance sector reported the second-highest number of breaches. - read more
Call for Stronger E-Scooter Insurance Regulations in NSW Call for Stronger E-Scooter Insurance Regulations in NSW
07 Nov 2024: Paige Estritori

The rapid increase in e-scooter usage across New South Wales has prompted renewed calls for improved insurance regulations to safeguard both riders and pedestrians. Genevieve Henderson, president of the Australian Lawyers Alliance NSW, is advocating for mandatory insurance policies that would cover private e-scooter owners and council-managed e-scooter sharing programs. - read more
Surge in Claims for Non-Advised Disability Income Insurance Surge in Claims for Non-Advised Disability Income Insurance
06 Nov 2024: Paige Estritori

Recent analysis reveals individual non-advised disability income insurance is leading the pack with a remarkable claims paid ratio of 113%. In stark contrast, individual policies acquired through personal advice boast a much lower ratio of 68%, as outlined by the latest prudential data. - read more
Controversial Fire Ruling: AFCA Endorses Claim Denial Controversial Fire Ruling: AFCA Endorses Claim Denial
06 Nov 2024: Paige Estritori

A recent decision has stirred considerable attention as an Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) ruling supported RAC Insurance's denial of a fire claim amidst significant controversy and debate. - read more


Health Articles

Demystifying Individual Coverage: Your Guide to Personal Health Insurance in Australia Demystifying Individual Coverage: Your Guide to Personal Health Insurance in Australia
In the realm of securing one’s health and wellbeing, navigating the Australian health insurance landscape can be as critical as the care received. It stands as a complex tapestry, woven with policies, premiums, and government incentives, affecting individuals and families nationwide. - read more
The Ultimate Guide to Comparing Health Insurance Plans in Australia The Ultimate Guide to Comparing Health Insurance Plans in Australia
Australia is renowned for its iconic landmarks, diverse ecosystems, and robust healthcare system. While the public healthcare system, Medicare, provides essential health services, it might not cover everything. The allure of private health coverage lies in its promise of broader options, reduced wait times, and coverage for services not included in Medicare, like dental and optical care. - read more
The Digital Age of Health Insurance: Comparing Policies Online The Digital Age of Health Insurance: Comparing Policies Online
The dawn of the digital age has significantly transformed the way we approach nearly every aspect of our lives, and the domain of health insurance is no exception. With the arrival of innovative digital tools, the health insurance landscape has undergone a striking evolution, allowing for unprecedented accessibility and convenience in managing healthcare coverage. - read more
Top 10 Tips to Find Affordable Health Insurance in Australia Top 10 Tips to Find Affordable Health Insurance in Australia
Finding affordable health insurance can be a daunting task, particularly in a landscape as diverse as Australia’s. With a myriad of options available, it's crucial to understand the financial support mechanisms in place that can ease the burden of healthcare costs. One such mechanism is the health fund rebate, a key feature of the Australian health insurance system designed to make healthcare more accessible. - read more
Is Private Health Insurance Worth It? Exploring the Benefits Is Private Health Insurance Worth It? Exploring the Benefits
In Australia, health insurance plays a significant role in ensuring individuals can access quality medical care without incurring prohibitive costs. - read more
Understanding the Basics of Australian Health Insurance Understanding the Basics of Australian Health Insurance
Health insurance is a critical part of maintaining your well-being and financial stability. In Australia, understanding the basics of health insurance can help you make informed decisions that protect you during unforeseen medical events. - read more
Health Fund Rebates 101: What Every Australian Needs to Know Health Fund Rebates 101: What Every Australian Needs to Know
Exploring the realm of health insurance can be like navigating a labyrinth, replete with complex terms and varying policies. Among these, health fund rebates emerge as a crucial element, particularly for young Australians embarking on their journey of health coverage. Fund rebates can significantly lighten the financial burden, transforming the quest for health insurance from daunting to empowering. - read more
5 Tips to Save on Health Cover as an Australian Senior 5 Tips to Save on Health Cover as an Australian Senior
Finding the right health insurance coverage is a critical concern for Australian seniors, who often face the dual challenge of managing chronic health conditions and maintaining financial stability in retirement. As the cost of healthcare continues to rise, the importance of securing an affordable health cover that still meets their needs cannot be overstated. - read more
Top 10 Tips to Find Affordable Health Insurance in Australia Top 10 Tips to Find Affordable Health Insurance in Australia
Finding affordable health insurance can be a daunting task, particularly in a landscape as diverse as Australia’s. With a myriad of options available, it's crucial to understand the financial support mechanisms in place that can ease the burden of healthcare costs. One such mechanism is the health fund rebate, a key feature of the Australian health insurance system designed to make healthcare more accessible. - read more
Understanding Health Insurance: A Starter's Guide for Young Australians Understanding Health Insurance: A Starter's Guide for Young Australians
Embarking on the journey of understanding health insurance is a pivotal stride for young Australians. It's a proactive step that embodies responsibility for one's well-being and financial foresight. Health insurance can often seem like a complex affair reserved for a future self, but grappling with its intricacies early can be both economically savvy and health-conscious. - read more


Start Here
Your free Health insurance quote comparison starts here!

Type of Cover:
Postcode:
All Health insurance quotes are supplied to you free and without any obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Aggregate Limit:
The maximum amount an insurer will pay for all covered losses during a policy period.