Insurer Axa PPP healthcare has introduced a new, lower cost medical insurance plan for larger sized employers.
Based on the insurer's Corporate Health Plan – Axa PPP’s most popular plan for larger sized employers – Corporate Health Plan Pathways offers the same levels of cover but operated a different referral process.
If a scheme member seeks a consultation with a specialist for an investigation or treatment of a medical condition, rather than having their GP refer them to a named specialist, they obtain an open referral whereby Axa PPP directs them to a suitable healthcare provider.
As a result of being able to put patients in direct contact with healthcare providers, such as physiotherapists, hospitals and scanning centres, Axa PPP will be able to pass the savings of up to around 15% back to the employer.
Scheme members can choose whether they would prefer to be treated nearer to home or work, depending on each location's convenience in terms of initial scans or tests.
Nick Groom, distribution director at Axa PPP, said: "CHP Pathways forms an important part of our response to meeting corporate customers’ healthcare needs more cost effectively in what remain challenging economic times.
"By allowing us to take the lead on directing members to selected providers, we can reward clients with significant savings – without compromising the extent or quality of healthcare cover scheme members receive."
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