Health Insurance in Regional Australia

Established in 1953, Westfund Health Insurance was forged by mutual principles and its development is closely linked with Lithgow's rich industrial history and local community. This book examines the growth and development of Westfund in the context of broader developments in health legislation and policy.

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Westfund Health Insurance is a regional success story and a remarkable national story. Established in 1953, it was forged by mutual principles and its development is closely linked with Lithgow's rich industrial history and local community. The longevity, resilience and competitive advantage of this not-for-profit regional health insurer in the face of changing business conditions and government regulation is thanks in large part to the people who make up the Westfund team and the communities they serve. Written by a team of highly experienced academics comprised of Harry Knowles, Greg Patmore and Mark Westcott, Health Insurance in Regional Australia: The History of Westfund examines the growth and development of Westfund in the context of broader developments in health legislation and policy. The history of Westfund and the high profile it enjoys today in regional New South Wales and Queensland highlight its value in delivering health insurance and advocating for better healthcare infrastructure in regional Australia.