HCF launches QR-based on-the-spot claims

Healthcare not-for-profit HCF has announced rollout of a QR-based, digital membership card that it says will revolutionise the claiming and payments experience for its more than 1.9 million members.

In what HCF says is a first for the nation's health insurance industry, members can claim on the spot by scanning the QR code in their HCF My Membership app, at all new HICAPS Trinity payment terminals.

The QR code claiming solution is a joint initiative developed between HCF and HICAPS.

“We’re proud to partner with HICAPS on this innovative feature to further streamline the claims and payments experience, which has long been a pain point for our members and providers,” said HCF CEO Sheena Jack.

“We also recognise the way Australians are making payments is changing, with the pandemic having accelerated new payment methods, enabled by mobile technology. Giving members the flexibility to claim on the spot with a quick and easy scan of their HCF membership QR code offers them a convenient and secure alternative to carrying a physical card,” Jack said.

“HCF has a rich history of pioneering innovation in the healthcare sector, and our new QR code claiming solution is another testament to this legacy. Our challenger spirit led us to be the first fund to open our own dental centre network, establish our own life insurance business, launch Australia's first corporate-backed health-tech accelerator, and provide the first on-demand accidental injury cover.

“Our new QR code on-the-spot claiming functionality represents a first to disrupt and better the healthcare payment system for our members and essentially, for all Australians. Created in collaboration with HICAPS, this solution is another great example of HCF building strong strategic partnerships which benefit our members, and the wider industry,” she said.

NAB Executive Merchant Services Mark Raymer said innovating to further simplify and streamline the claims process for HCF members, and subsequently the wider Australian healthcare sector, would bring significant and tangible benefits for everyone.

“Traditionally, Australian healthcare payment systems have been complex, which has led to substandard payment experiences for patients and difficulties for healthcare providers,” Raymer said.

“QR code claiming is a significant step forward and one we believe will help markedly improve the overall claims and payments experience.

“The ongoing rollout of HICAPS’ new, best-in-class, smart Trinity Terminals is progressing at pace and with more than 28,000 already in market, we’re on schedule to fully transition all providers to our new terminals over the next few months.”

According to HICAPS CEO Simon Terry, the strength of its partnership with HCF was fundamental to the successful delivery of the new QR code claiming system, which had in turn further underlined the ability of both organisations to deliver real innovation for its customers.

“We have built a strong relationship with HCF over the years, and we’re delighted to have had the opportunity to work together with the HCF team to deliver this new digital solution for its members,” Terry said.

“This new QR code claiming system will vastly improve the end user experience for both customers and healthcare providers alike.”

Image: Supplied