dental - Westfund

Increased
benefits
for Eyewear
and Dental
Eyewear
Hall of Frame sale
for June ‘09
Hardship Benefit
(see page 4)
Article - Dr Geoff Dreher
Bowel Cancer Screening
Program
Article - Jane Gardner, Beyond Blue
Anxiety: more common than
you think!
Kevin and his wife Beverly McGrath have been Westfund
members for 11 years, upgrading from Classic Gold to Classic
Platinum cover in 2008. Both Kevin and Beverly enjoy farming
life on their property at Eumungerie NSW.

Recommendafriend!
In a recent survey of new members . . .
It is interesting to note that up to 80% of new members say they were referred by
a family member or a friend who is an existing Westfund member.
Good word of mouth is a key to success in any business endeavour.
By having a broad, comprehensive range of covers offering ‘better value at a
competitive price’, and servicing our members appropriately, they will speak
well of us to their friends and associates.
Referrals by members are always very welcome and we appreciate
that loyal support. If you have been referred by a friend and become a
new Westfund Hospital or Extras member, on behalf of that friend,
we will send you a small gift as a thank you.
�
Testimonial
To the Staff at Westfund,
My friend Barbara Maloney, has been instrumental in my changing from
NIB health fund to Westfund, and has assisted me in filling in the forms.
Barbara has been extremely happy with the services provided by
Westfund. I enjoy good health and hope my good fortune continues.
Thank you to the girls who I have spoken with on the phone, who have
been very helpful.
Many Thanks, Dorothy Lawrence
Leonay NSW
WELCOME
Grahame Danaher M.D.
Introduction and greeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 1 - 2
MEDIA SPOTLIGHT
Press Releases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 3
YOUR FUND
Our ‘Hardship Provision’
Is looking after members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4
EYEWEAR
June Sale - 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5
YOUNG STARTER COVER
Cover for young singles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 6
HOSPITAL & MEDICAL GAP
Case studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 7- 8
AMBULANCE
Case studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 9
DENTAL
Recruitment of Dentists
Increased value in Dental benefits . . . . . . .Pages 10 - 12
Contents Note: This promotion will be in effect until the 31st August 2009.
EYEWEAR
Increased value in optical benefits . . . . . . . . . . .Page 13
LOYALTY BENEFITS
Introduction of Westfund’s Loyalty Benefits . . .Page 14
YOUR PRIVACY
Your privacy is important to us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 15
SERVICE
We are here to help! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 16
COMMUNITY
UPGRADE winner 2008
Christmas appeal - Thank you! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 17
ARTICLE
Bowel cancer screening program . . . . . . . .Pages 18 - 19
ARTICLE
Beyond Blue - Anxiety disorder . . . . . . . . . .Pages 20 - 24

WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 1
www.westfund.com.au
GRAHAME DANAHER
Westfund Managing Director
Welcome to our Autumn/Winter edition of
the Westfund Member Magazine
The purpose of the members magazine is to allow
members to obtain value from their Health cover.
The magazine outlines the additional benefits provided for
Dental, Eyewear and other extras benefits and also
reinforces some benefits that might be useful to members
such as our forced retrenchment benefit.
Westfund has continued to increase benefits to cover fee
increases by hospitals and doctors through our contracts
and agreements. These increases in benefits need to be
paid for by premium increases in part which largely come
through doctors and hospital increases in charges.
Our premium rises over time have remained on average
well below the industry rise, though this year we were
a little higher mainly due to the increased and
additional benefits.
We are pleased to be able to increase our Eyewear Centre
services to Emerald, which opened a few months ago and
has proven very popular.
Premium Rise Comparison Table

We have recruited additional dentists from overseas to our Dental Centre in NSW
and the facility is now operating at full capacity with just a six week waiting time on
appointments. Our dental service offers a high quality of care and very affordable
fees so enquire now on (02) 6352 4255.
While the majority of your premiums go in benefit payments we need to
administer the fund and supply the service members require, which we do for
about $2 a week per person covered, which is below the industry average.
Our members magazine is produced by Westfund staff and is mailed to members
for about $1.20 per copy. We are providing a new survey to encourage you to
comment on the magazine to allow us to further improve the value to you.
Members Magazine Survey
Thank you to all those who completed
the Member Magazine Survey, sent
out with the magazine’s
Christmas edition.
From the 30,000 surveys sent out we
received 366 responses. Many of the
replies were positive and encouraging,
with strong support for our
‘Not for Profit’ structure.
As the graph (right) indicates, more than
3/4 of respondents feel the magazine helps
them get more value from their health cover.
Members do say that reading the magazine
helps them keep informed about changes and
improvements to our products and services,
particularly in relation to Eyewear and Dental.
It also provides informative, helpful articles
like Depression & Anxiety, Bowel Cancer and
Trans Fats, what to do about it, and where
to find help!
We acknowledge and appreciate your comments
both positive and negative and use them to
improve the value to you, our members.
Thank you for your support through 2008 and we
look forward to satisfying your health insurance
requirements for 2009. We remain a not for profit
company and have been since 1929.
We maintain all surplus in member reserves.
15/5/09
Regards
Grahame Danaher
Westfund Managing Director

Dental Shortage
The Lithgow Mercury
12/2/09
Rural and Regional
Australia suffers a chronic shortage of dentists which is getting worse as
a lack of new dentists fail to replenish our ageing rural dentists.
Westfund has been successful in recruiting a full contingent of dentists for our
modern 7 chair dental facility in Lithgow where we treat our members from
around the Central West and beyond.
The centre is attractive as we have been able to reduce waiting times along with
the ability to provide a quality service and very affordable fees for our members.
The Dental Centre is managed by our Chief Dental Officer Dr Herdeza Verzosa.
Westfund, in conjunction with Dr. Verzosa, have helped to address the extreme
shortage of dentists available in regional areas by actively recruiting qualified
dentists outside of Australia.
The shortage has increased waiting times has forced up dental fees,
so even if you have access to dentists the fees make it very tough for
struggling families.
Westfund remains willing to work with government to improve dentistry
access and affordability in Rural and Regional Australia.
Grahame Danaher
(Westfund Managing Director)
Academic health efficiencies cosmetic
The Financial Review
26/3/09
There are two main components of private health insurance premiums – benefit
payments and management costs of the organisation (“Efficiency leads to lower
health premiums”, Letters, March 25).
Management costs are about $250 a membership, about $5 a week, with little
avenue for any efficiency savings from this area. The main costs that are
increasing between 7 and 10 per cent a year are benefit costs, largely driven by
the Doctors. The private health insurance legislation requires the health funds
to pay the Doctor and hospital no matter what the outcome of the operation.
Corrective surgery is reimbursed at the same benefit.
Grahame Danaher
(Westfund Managing Director)
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 3
www.westfund.com.au
M E D I A S P O T L I G H T

Y O U R F U N D
Westfund’s ‘Hardship Provision’
The deteriorating economic forecast both in Australia and abroad, has left many
Members feeling somewhat insecure about the future risks to their jobs, lifestyles and
their families’ well-being. We recognise the difficulties exposed when hardship strikes,
whether through Drought or Forced Retrenchment.
Westfund’s ‘Hardship Provision’, newly introduced as part of our Loyalty Bonus
Program, means that Westfund may waive premiums for a period of 6 months should
any of the above mentioned circumstances eventuate, provided you have been a
member for 3 continuous years. (Terms and conditions apply.)
You can call your local branch on 1300 552 132
should you require more information.
Testimonial
Following my retrenchment from
Perilya Broken Hill Mine, I was
happy to find out about the
Forced Retrenchment Benefit
offered by my health fund.
The benefit enables me to remain
with my health fund for a period
of up to six months unless I find
full-time employment within
that time.
Bonus
“It is great to have support of
Westfund Health Insurance during this hard time”.
Don Austen
Broken Hill NSW

UPGRADE
SALE
June ‘09
Hall of Frame sale
up to 50% off
“At Westfund Eyewear Centres . . . Our focus is your satisfaction”
Limited stock of 2008 frames until sold
at Westfund Eyewear Centres
UPGRADE
to Transition lenses
Transition Lenses will automatically darken
and lighten for you, depending on lighting conditions.
Big Savings
*
*Discount is on the lens treatment
Offer is not available to Westfund Ambulance members.
Sale ends June 30th 2009

Y O U N G S TA R T E R C O V E R
If you are a young single person over 25 years of age, coming off
your parents membership or looking to get started with a health
insurance policy of your own, Westfund’s ‘Young Starter’ cover
could be the right choice for you.
I’m young and healthy. Why do I need
Private Health Insurance?
Enjoy the security of knowing you are assured of a hospital room in a private
hospital (subject to availability). You can also choose your own hospital and
Doctor. Public hospital beds can become scarce quite quickly, leading to
longer waiting times in often uncomfortable circumstances. For a young fit
and healthy person, the basic hospital cover would usually be sufficient,
excluding procedures you are less likely to need.
By weighing up the risks and choosing a cover with excesses and co-payments
you can reduce your up front premium. The ancillary component of your health
cover is more likely to include things you might use such as:
Dental and Eyewear, so you can look after your health care needs.
Enquire today -
About Westfund’s
‘Young Starter’ Cover.
Priced from $11.30 per week
(with the 30% Govt. rebate),
you can access a range
of Optical and Dental benefits
as well as the security of
knowing you are covered
for basic hospital cover.
Exclusions, excesses &
co-payments apply.
Also: Refer to The Federal
Government Private Health
Insurance initiatives on page 24.

H O S P I TA L A N D M E D I C A L G A P
Case Study three
Emergency Caeserean
Leona, a 35 year old female pregnant with her third child was admitted to
hospital for an emergency caeserean. Leona has been a member for 8 years
on Classic Gold cover. Both mother and baby spent 7 days in hospital.
Both are doing fine.
NSW
Charge: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$8,833.55
Benefit paid: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$8,833.55
Total Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$8,833.55
Out of pocket: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$0
Case Study four
Car Accident
Andrew is a 17 year old male who has been on his parents’ Classic Silver
membership since 2000. Six months ago Andrew was in a car accident and
received serious injuries. He has been in and out of hospital all of this time
receiving treatment. Andrew is now on the road to recovery.
QLD
Charge: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$31,666.60
Benefit paid: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$31,666.60
Total Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$31,666.60
Out of pocket: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$0
Case Study five
Premature Baby
Baby Alex was born 2 months premature. Alex spent the first 52 days of her
life in the hospital’s neo natal unit. Alex’s parents have been with Westfund
since 2001 on Classic Gold and Platinum covers. Alex is now a happy,
healthy one year old.
QLD
Charge: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$36,517.90
Benefit paid: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$36,517.90
Total Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$36517.90
Out of pocket: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$0

� Westfund’s
� I
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WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 9
www.westfund.com.au
A M B U L A N C E
Westfund’s Ambulance Cover is a valuable component of your Westfund
Health Insurance policy. For our Ambulance only members this represents
excellent value for money giving Australia wide coverage for only
$51.20 family cover and $25.45 for singles.
Examples of emergency Ambulance Transportation costs.
Names Changed for privacy reasons
Name Journey km’s travelled cost Benefit
Colleen Home to Orange 3 kilometres $297.86 $297.86
Kasey hospital
Name Journey km’s travelled cost benefit
James Home to 6 kilometres $305.72 $305.72
Watson Nepean
Hospital
Westfund’s Advanced Surgery Benefit, giving you security
and peace of mind when you need it most.
Testimonials
Advanced Surgery Benefit
In Regard to the above mentioned benefit, I found it to be really helpful when some
of the gap payments from anesthetists etc, started coming in from my recent
surgery. The Advanced Surgery Benefit covered these accounts and so thanks to
Westfund, I went through the whole heart bypass episode at absolute minimum cost.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr Raymond Hamment - Lithgow NSW
find the advanced Surgery Benefit very helpful as a means of paying for, or at least
assist paying for, fees charged over and above the schedule fee by specialists for
operations. Thank you very much, it has been very helpful.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr Rodney Chelman - Glen Innes NSW
have found the staff at Westfund to be efficient and very caring. During our recent
traumatic time with our son’s accident. Cathy from the Dubbo office has been so lovely,
and while you have staff like Cathy and Midge from Lithgow office, we will never change
from Westfund and tell everyone we know how great it was to deal with a great place,
under very emotional circumstances. Thank you for all your help!
Yours Sincerely,
Mrs Trudy Whitaker - Cookamidgera NSW

� Westfund’s
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 7
www.westfund.com.au
H O S P I TA L A N D M E D I C A L G A P
We often find that members do not see the benefit of private
hospital cover until unfortunately, they need to use it. Following
are some recent examples of the costs relating to surgery.
(Names have been changed for privacy reasons.)
Case Study One
Tracheostomy
Jo, a 60 year old male was admitted to hospital needing a tracheostomy. Jo
stayed in hospital for 7 days. Jo has been with Westfund for 8 years on Classic
Platinum cover.
QLD
Charge: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25,585.43
Benefit paid: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25,585.43
Total Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25,585.43
Out of pocket: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$0
Case Study Two
Knee Replacement
Fay, a 58 year old female has been with Westfund for 5 years on Classic Gold
cover. After many years of chronic knee pain she was admitted for a knee
replacement and spent 12 days in hospital.
NSW
Charge: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$21,054.45
Benefit paid: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$21,054.45
Total Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$21,054.45
Out of pocket: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$0
Testimonial
Advanced Surgery Benefit
It came as a very pleasant surprise to me, to be paid for my recent stay in
hospital.
Thanks so much for the cheque: I recommend to everyone I meet, the benefits
of belonging to Westfund. I’ll keep singing your praises.
Thanks so very much.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr and Mrs Fletcher - Dubbo NSW

D E N TA L
More Dentists and shorter waiting periods
Following our recent recruitment of Dentists from New Zealand, we can
now boast that our Dental Centre has a full contingent of (7) full-time
Dentists supported by our trained, friendly staff.
It became apparent last year with a growing waiting list that we would
need to intensify our efforts in recruiting more Dentists. This was
necessary to reduce the waiting list from 6 months. Our new Dentists
are very capable. They will be managing a wide range of patients
including children and those with complex medical conditions.
Overall, they will be performing general dental procedures such as:
fillings, crown and bridge, dentures and minor surgical procedures.
We have also taken the opportunity to review our clinical procedures
and infection control policies ensuring optimum satisfaction to our
members. At Westfund Dental Centre, we always strive to provide our
members with an affordable dental service whilst providing
uncompromising quality and care.
Regards
Herdeza Verzosa
Chief Dental Officer

WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 11
www.westfund.com.au
D E N TA L
“The Dental Centre is managed by our Chief Dental Officer Dr Herdeza Verzosa,
who is responsible for the dentists who have been recruited outside Australia
due to the extreme shortage of Dentists available to work in regional Australia”
Our dental team!
The Lithgow Mercury (March 2009)

D E N TA L
Increased value in dental benefits
Dental benefits were increased from April 1st. There is no longer a lifetime
limit on crowns and bridges. Benefits for cleanings, fillings and crowns were
increased by the amounts shown in the table below. The orthodontic benefit
was increased for Platinum members.
Service Description Old Rebate New Rebate Difference
Removal of plaque & stain $20.00 $25.00 $5.00
Removal of calcius - first visit $50.00 $55.00$5.00
Metallic Restoration - one surface $40.00 $48.00$8.00
Metallic Restoration - two surfaces $50.00 $59.00$9.00
Metallic Restoration - three surfaces $60.00 $70.50$10.50
Metallic Restoration - four surfaces $65.00 $80.50$15.50
Metallic Restoration - five surfaces $70.00 $91.50$21.50
Adhesive restoration 1 surface anterior $40.00 $53.50$13.50
Adhesive restoration 2 surfaces anterior $50.00 $64.50$14.50
Adhesive restoration 3 surfaces anterior $60.00 $76.50$16.50
Adhesive restoration 4 surfaces anterior $70.00 $88.50$18.50
Adhesive restoration 5 surfaces anterior $80.00 $104.00$24.00
Adhesive restoration 1 surface posterior $50.00 $57.00$7.00
Adhesive restoration 2 surfaces posterior $60.00 $71.50$11.50
Adhesive restoration 3 surfaces posterior $75.00 $86.00$11.00
Full crown - non metallic indirect $550.00 $650.00$100.00
Full crown - veneered indirect $550.00 $650.00$100.00
Full crown - metallic indirect $550.00 $650.00$100.00
Complete maxillary denture $300.00 $441.00$141.00
Complete mandibular denture $300.00 $441.00$141.00
Complete maxillary & mandibular denture $600.00 $781.50 $181.50

Increased value in optical benefits
Westfund
Classic
Eyewear
Sunglass
Rebate
Westfund Classic
Eyewear only
Other
Optical
Providers
Westfund
Classic
Eyewear
Sunglass
Rebate
Westfund Classic
Eyewear only
Other
Optical
Providers
Platinum
Extended
E Y E W E A R
$600 $600 $450 $450 $350
Includes a $200 Top Up
Platinum Gold
Extended
Gold Silver
$75 $75 $50 $50 $50
$400 $400 $275 $275 $275
Value
First
Value
Saver Plus
Value
Saver
Classic
Extras
Ambulance
Cover
$250 $250 $Nil $450 $Nil
Includes a $125 Top Up Includes a $125 Top Up
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 13
www.westfund.com.au
We are always looking to control the pricing fluctuations associated
with multiple optical suppliers across a network of branches.
It is through stabilising our prices and increased control within our own
eyewear branches, that we are able to increase the benefits, their
flexibility and ultimately the value to our members.
As the table below indicates, the benefits are certainly higher when
using Westfund Classic Eyewear as opposed to other external optical
providers as we do not have the same level of management and control
over operations within other external optical providers.
From the 1st of April 2009, Westfund have increased the Optical Benefits
for our members. As illustrated below, Westfund Members are entitled
to a higher rebate when you purchase your new spectacles at Westfund
Classic Eyewear.
Please ask the friendly staff at Westfund for more information.
Includes a $200 Top Up Includes a $175 Top Up Includes a $175 Top Up
Includes a $175 Top Up
Includes a $75 Top Up
$50 $50 $Nil $50 $Nil
$125 $125 $Nil $275 $Nil

E N H A N C E D B E N E F I T S
Westfund’s ‘Loyalty Bonus’ means that now, you can
unlock the extra benefits that longer term
membership provides.
Additional benefits have now been added for longer term members of
Classic Platinum and Classic Gold covers. These extra benefits were not
previously covered and will further enhance the value of these premium
Hospital and Extras covers.
Bonus
If you are a Platinum or Gold member, then Westfund credits your policy with a
pool of money (called your Loyalty Reward) which is available to you to contribute
to the cost of treatments or medical aids which are not otherwise covered by your
policy. For example, if you have minor surgery on your foot done by a podiatrist,
this is not covered as a regular benefit, but you can use whatever balance is
available in your policy’s Loyalty Reward pool towards paying for this surgery.
Benefits currently available under the Loyalty Bonus programme.
✔ Hardship Provision
Westfund may waive premiums in the unfortunate event of Forced
Retrenchment and Drought, for a period of up to 6 months,
after you have been a member for 3 years.
✔ Dental (Major Dental and Orthodontia)
Westfund provides an accumulation of benefit for:
Major Dental - (Crowns, Bridges, Implants and Veneers.)
Orthodontia - Up to a lifetime limit.
✔ Additional Benefits
Westfund provides Additional Benefits on the basis of years of
membership with the fund.
Unlock the extra benefits that longer term membership provides.
Your Additional Benefits can be used toward paying any of the following:
First Aid, Alexander Technique for chronic back pain.
CPAP Masks, Braces for knee, neck or back. Bone density test,
Audiology tests, Clinical Psychology, minor Podiatric surgery.
Platinum Family: Accumulates at $150 per year to a maximum of $450.
Platinum Single: Accumulates at $75 per year to a maximum of $225.
Gold Family: Accumulates at $100 per year to a maximum of $300.
Gold Single: Accumulates at $50 per year to a maximum of $150.

From left to right: Jennifer Ballard: Records Support
Kristin Davis: Westfund Privacy Officer Vicki Ellwood: Records Support
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 15
www.westfund.com.au
Y O U R P R I V A C Y
At Westfund we seek to
develop and promote a
culture in which personal
information is protected
and respected.
Regular training programs are
conducted to help staff comply with
the Privacy Act 1988 and to inform
staff about Privacy.
Topics covered include:
• Key concepts and definitions
• Understanding the National Privacy Principles (NPPs)
• Applying the National Privacy Principles (NPPs)
• Interface with the official Privacy Act
• The Complaints process
• Sound work practices
Westfund Privacy Statement outlines how we manage your personal
information – and describes in general terms the type of personal information
collected and how it is held, used and disclosed.
Westfund Privacy initiatives include:
• Screens constructed in our branches which provide our members with
a confidential area to conduct their business, maintaining privacy to our
clients at all times.
• Secure Records management systems.
• Signatory to the Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct.
• Embrace the National Privacy Principles under the Privacy Act 1988.
“Privacy Awareness Week” 3 – 9 May 2009
(Office of Privacy Commissioner Initiative) Westfund actively participated
in “Privacy Awareness Week” by involving all staff in an education program
covering awareness of Privacy matters with initiatives focusing on -
That the Privacy of our members continues to be Valued and Respected.
Useful links:
www.westfund.com.au www.privacy.gov.au
Kristin Davis
Westfund Privacy Officer

S E R V I C E
Kerry brings 25 years of
experience with Westfund
to our Member Services
Team. Kerry has seen
many changes through
that time. Her vast industry
knowledge, and vibrant
personality is a real asset
when it comes to helping
our members with their
enquiries.
� As
Testimonial
Westfund Member Services
We’re here to help!
Call and speak to one of our friendly
trained staff, (not an automated
voice machine).
On average our Westfund Member Services
Consultants assist 500 members
per week. A high level of service is the key to our
success and we monitor the level of service
through member and mystery shopping surveys.
We realise the importance of handling your
enquiries quickly and efficiently and our
consultants are renowned for their personal
and professional service.
Should you have an
enquiry regarding . . .
• What benefits you are entitled too.
• What payment options are available.
• Waiting periods.
• Or for any general enquiries,
please call our Member Services
team or your local branch on:
Tel: 1300 552 132
a Member for a number of years it gives me much pleasure in thanking
Westfund for their prompt and loyal service, both locally and head office.
With competitive fees for a great cover and benefits including Advanced
Surgery Benefits I am very grateful for the security and peace of mind to
have Westfund as my health cover.
Yours Sincerely, Vincent Dunn
Dubbo NSW

Val Want
(Westfund Member)
Upgrade competition winner
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 17
www.westfund.com.au
C O M M U N I T Y
Upgrade
Upgrade -$500 promotion winner
Congratulations to Val Want. Val is the winner
of Westfund’s $500 Harvey Norman Upgrade
promotion, drawn 19th November 2008.
Val is from Wellington NSW, a retired Nursing Sister
and long term member of Westfund since 1996.
As well as the waiver of the two month waiting period,
Val particularly liked the idea of the increased eyewear
benefits, and the extra $500 (Dental Top-Up) for
general dental services.
“We look forward to seeing Val in the Dubbo Branch.”
Westfund Christmas Appeal
Thank you to all our Westfund members and people in the community who donated
gifts to the annual Westfund Christmas appeal. From our office in Main Street Lithgow
the Salvation Army managed to distribute approximately $7000 worth of toys, food,
jewellery and clothes to children and families who may otherwise have gone without
at Christmas time.
Mr McDonald along with his wife from Lidsdale, spend many months each year
leading up to Christmas, making wooden toys such as rocking horses and doll
cradels etc, for the children. A special thank you for all your efforts!
Picture: Mr McDonald in the Lithgow branch with many of their works under the Christmas tree.

BOWEL CANCER
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
Article by Dr Geoff Dreher
Bowel Cancer (also called Colon Cancer
or Colorectal Cancer):-
• Affects 1:18 males and 1:26 females in Australia by the age of 75 years.
• Mainly affects people over the age of 50 years.
(It rarely occurs in younger people).
• Occurs more frequently in people who have a High Fat, Low Fibre Diet;
High Alcohol intake; Smoke tobacco; and do not Exercise.
• Has an overall death rate in Australia of 40%
after five years from diagnosis, but -
If the Cancer is found to be only in the Bowel wall –
Survival is 88% after 5 years.
If the Cancer has spread only to the nodes outside Bowel wall –
Survival is 43% after 5 years.
If the Cancer is found to have spread to other organs beyond the Bowel –
Survival is only 7% after 5 years.
Hence, it is important to reduce our risk of developing Bowel Cancer by both
Prevention and Early detection.
i) Prevention:
A low fat and high fibre diet; Low or no alcohol intake; No smoking; and
Exercise reduces the risk of developing Bowel Cancer.
ii) Early Detection
Bowel Screening for blood. The symptoms of Bowel Cancer such as Bleeding
from the Bowel; Anaemia; Change in Bowel habit; Abdominal pain are often
not present or noticed until the Cancer has spread to an extent that it is
difficult to treat effectively.
Testing bowel motion (faeces) for the presence of blood can reveal early Bowel
cancer that is treatable. Such detection improves the overall 5 year survival
rate for the disease by 33%.

WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 19
www.westfund.com.au
A National Bowel Cancer Screening Program has
been developed by the Australian Government which
it is testing over three years. The program consists of
sending a free Faecal Occult Blood Test Screening Kit
to all persons who turn 50, 55 or 65 between the years
of 2007 to 2010.
Persons receiving this kit are asked to collect faeces
(details are provided in the Kit on how to do this)
and send them for examination to a Pathologist who
then informs you, and/or your General Practitioner
of the result. If Blood is found, it will probably be
recommended that a Colonoscopy is performed
(Examination of the Bowel via a flexible tube) to see
if a Cancer is present.
The Program is limited to the ages concerned
during this trial with the expectation that in
due course the Test Kit will be offered
more extensively.
However, it is possible to seek a test for yourself
if you do not fit into one of the age groups listed
above, and hence are not entitled to one of the free test kits provided by the
National Bowel Screening Program.
You can obtain your own Test Kit in a number of ways:
• Call the Cancer Council in your state or territory on 131120.
They will be able to give you information about accessing FOBT.
The Cancer Councils of South Australia and Victoria provide FOBT’s for sale.
Test Kits are provided by the Council at a price of $28,
or $20 for Pensioners/Health Card Holders.
• Contact your local Rotary Club to see if that
organisation is providing Test Kits in your area.
The price of the Kits obtained through Rotary is often
significantly subsidised by Rotary.
• See your local Pharmacist or General Practitioner
who has access to ‘InSure’ Bowel Screening Test Kits
provided by Enterix. These Kits cost $35.95.
You can obtain ‘Insure’ Kits directly yourself
via the ‘Insure’ website www.enterix.com.au
or by phone at 1800 55 65 75.

y Jane Gardner,
Communications Officer at beyondblue:
the national depression initiative
Depression is a potentially serious illness which is experienced
by around two million people in Australia at any given time.
In general, awareness of the signs and symptoms of depression,
willingness to discuss it and seek help is growing. However,
many people still don’t realise that anxiety disorders are more
common than depression and can be just as debilitating.
Anxiety: more common than you think!
Anxiety:
We all feel anxious from time to time: whether it’s just before giving a public
speech or participating in a competition, flying, getting married, attending a
job interview or being in a risky or dangerous situation.
Anxiety is a normal reaction to a high-pressure situation, but if you experience
similar symptoms persistently or intensely without justification, it could be a
sign of an anxiety disorder.
Recent figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics National Survey of
Mental Health show two million Australians currently live with anxiety, which
makes it twice as common as depression.
One in 10 men and one in six women will experience some
type of anxiety disorder during their lifetime.
Anxiety can be debilitating, it can cause a great deal of anguish for those
experiencing it and prevent them from functioning well and living a normal life.
Men in particular are more likely to try to make themselves feel better with
alcohol and drugs rather than addressing the problem.
Every anxiety disorder is different, but most generally involve unrelenting
feelings of tension, distress or nervousness. A person may avoid, or grudgingly
endure, situations which cause these types of feelings.

www.beyondblue.org.au
Anxiety:
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 21
www.westfund.com.au
more common than you think!
Not only can an anxiety disorder affect the person experiencing the illness, but
it can also start to affect relationships with family members and friends.
Untreated anxiety disorders can lead to marriage and family problems,
financial difficulties, job loss, drug and alcohol abuse and in extreme cases,
self-harm.
Anxiety disorders are manageable with the right treatment. Psychological
treatments have been proven to be very effective and medication is also used
to treat some anxiety disorders
Types of anxiety disorders
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the most widespread anxiety
disorder is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which is commonly
associated with veterans who have experienced or witnessed the horrors of
war. However, PTSD can be triggered by any trauma – for example, sexual
abuse, an accident, natural disaster, kidnapping or witnessing a crime.
People who work in emergency services are particularly vulnerable to PTSD.
Phobias are the next most common anxiety disorders, affecting 5 per cent of
people. People with social phobias may dread leaving the house, going to
parties or meeting new people. Common phobias include a fear of flying,
germs, snakes, animals or confined spaces. It’s not unusual for someone to
have several phobias. Agoraphobia is a fear of leaving an environment
considered safe, usually the person’s house. This disorder can be so severe,
agoraphobic people may remain housebound for weeks, months or even years.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder - People who have GAD can feel anxious on
most days for at least six months. Generally, they worry about real issues such
as finances, illness or family problems - to the point where it can affect their
functioning every day.

Panic disorder
People with panic disorder experience intense, almost uncontrollable,
feelings of anxiety. They may have frequent panic attacks, which include short
bursts of feeling anxious, feelings of dread, shortness of breath, nausea,
dizziness, tingles or chills, shaking and chest pain. These chest pains can
often be mistaken for a heart attack.
The least prevalent anxiety disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder,
or OCD, is one of the most well-known. People with OCD are compelled to
repeat a certain action to achieve satisfaction, for example, constantly
cleaning or checking to confirm that appliances are turned off or doors
locked. People with OCD may also experience intrusive thoughts about
becoming sick, having an accident or dying.
Anxiety
more common than you think!
“I couldn't get out of bed, I couldn't concentrate and I’d go to work in
a fog. Your brain just seizes. I had to sit down all the time.
The anxiety would paralyse me with fear. For me, it was terrifying.”
Australian actor and beyondblue Board Director
Garry McDonald on the anxiety attacks
he experienced in his 20s and 30s.
Anxiety in rural Australia
RHealth’s Community Support Officer, Christine Knight, is employed under
the Mental Health Support for Drought Affected Communities Initiative.
She says there is no doubt anxiety is a major mental health problem in rural
and remote Australia.
Ms Knight’s Division covers an area the size of Victoria from Beaudesert to
Thargominda in southern Queensland and includes Charleville, Roma and
Kingaroy.
Since 2004, 35 per cent of people in the RHealth division who have seen a
psychologist under the Better Outcomes in Mental Health program have been
diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. This is compared to 45 per cent with
depression.
“As far as anxiety goes, it’s very difficult to pinpoint, even
more so than depression,” Chris said.

Help for anxiety
WESTFUND MEMBERS MAGAZINE JUNE 2009 - 23
www.westfund.com.au
“Rural people tend to be stoic and like to think they can
handle anything but I think the prevalence of anxiety is quite
high. This is probably due to their need to function through
a drought which has made everything else hard as well.
“Even in the really tough times, there has always been this underlying attitude of
‘it’s fine, we’ve been doing this for a long time’, but now the whole world is saying
that climate change is never going to go away, which has eliminated hope and
changed the philosophy of being quietly confident that it will rain again.
“In the towns, people are just hoping it turns around and they’re worried
about paying their bills. The wives are another ball game - they’re trying to
hold it together, deal with the banks, field the phone calls and some are really
anxious about their kids’ education.”
Chris says one of the problems in her area is lack of awareness about anxiety
and depression. Often people don’t understand that what they’re
experiencing is a diagnosable mental health problem that can be treated and
from which most people recover.
“I think the men in particular tend to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs in
order to feel better and they can get very angry,” she said. “I think the women
throw themselves into work and children and everything else so much that
they burn out. Our bottom line will always be – go to the doctor. Start there,
because with anxiety, it can look like a physical illness. Your heart might be
racing, you may have headaches or a sore back or you mightn’t be sleeping
well. You may not realise that it is anxiety until someone tells you it is.”

▲ ▲ ▲
The beyondblue website has a comprehensive section on anxiety disorders,
including anxiety checklists to fill out.
Or, you can order free information by calling the beyondblue information
line on 1300 22 4636 (local call cost from a landline).
beyondblue also distribute a free self-help book called Taking Care of Yourself
after Retrenchment or Financial Loss which can be ordered by phoning the
number above.
Talking to a General Practitioner is also a good starting point.
Under the Federal Government’s Better Access to Mental Health Care
Scheme, if referred by a GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician, you may qualify
for Medicare rebates for up to 12 consultations with a
psychologist, occupational therapist or social worker
in mental health.
Talk to your GP or call the beyondblue info line
for more information.
Health Insurance adds financial benefits
The Federal Government has implemented a number of initiatives to encourage
people to have private health insurance. These initiatives include:
Take advantage of the 30%, 35% & 40% Government Rebate
If you take out Westfund Health Insurance and you are eligible for Medicare, the federal government
will give you 30%, 35% or 40% back on your premium. You may elect to reduce the premium as
you go, claim it with your yearly tax return, or claim a cash refund from Medicare.
Avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge!
If you are a family or couple with a taxable income after reportable fringe benefits of more than
$140,000 (increasing by $1,500 for each eligible child after the first) a year or a single with a
taxable income after reportable fringe benefits of more than $70,000 a year, your Medicare Levy
can increase by 1% of your taxable income. However, you can easily avoid the additional
surcharge by joining Westfund’s Classic Platinum Cover.
Are you almost 31 . . . or older? Then you need to know about
the Federal Government Lifetime Health Cover Scheme.
This scheme became effective on 1st July 2000. New members to private health insurance
hospital cover pay a loading of 2% on the base rate premium for the hospital cover they select
for each year their age exceeds 30.
Federal Government

A more cost effective,
environmentally
friendly solution!
Following our last survey,
A number of Members felt that the
magazine was too flash or glossy.
To address these concerns, whilst still acknowledging the value to
members (as outlined on page two of the Managing Directors
introduction), we have now gone to a two colour format throughout
with full colour cover and a more environmentally friendly paper stock.
It is important to note that a purely 100%
recycled paper stock would nearly double
the paper costs, increasing the
production price overall.
?
Westfund
goes green...
We don t just look
after members,
we care for the
environment.
Westfund Members Magazine
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Many of you, particularly new members, may have questions regarding
commonly used terms, policies and procedures relating to health
insurance such as:
• What is a Pre-Existing Ailment?
• How do I make a claim?
• What is a P. B.S?
In the coming months, you will be able to log on to our Westfund website
at www.westfund.com.au, click on the F.A.Q tab in the menu bar on the
home page, and there you can view a glossary of questions and answers
to help you with your membership queries. (Currently under construction.)
Alternatively, for more information . . .
feel free to call your nearest branch on 1300 552 132.

Our Branch Network
New South Wales Branches
1 Lithgow 120 Main Street NSW 2790
2 Bathurst Shop 4A Stockland Mall
William Street 2795
3 Dubbo Shop 4 Riverdale Shopping Centre
49-65 Macquarie Street 2830
4 Mudgee Shop 2 102 Church Street 2850
5 Orange 179 Summer Street 2800
6 Tamworth Shop T18 City Plaza
436 Peel Street 2340
7 Wollongong 101 Crown Street 2500
8 Broken Hill Crn Blende & Sulphide Sts
Broken Hill NSW 2880
Queensland Branches
1 Townsville Shop 6, Building G Domain Central
2 Rockhampton 127 East Street 4700
3 Mackay Shop 2200B Caneland Central
Mangrove Road
4 Moranbah Shop 8 Moranbah Shopping Centre
St Francis Drive 4744
5 Emerald Shop 9 Emerald Village
shopping centre 4720
(Eyewear now open at Emerald Branch)
Agencies
Agencies NSW
1 Katoomba
2 Wellington
3 Rylstone
4 Parkes
Agencies QLD
1 Dysart
2 Blackwater
3 Biloela
4 Gladstone
Agencies WA
1 Kalgoorlie
WESTFUND HOME OFFICE
5 Railway Parade Lithgow NSW 2790
Phone: 1300 552 132 Fax: (02) 6352 3080
Email: enquiries@westfund.com.au
Web: www.westfund.com.au
Westfund Ltd ABN 55 002 080 864. A registered Private Health Insurer, Incorporated in NSW.
Trading under Westfund and Westfund Health Assurance.
Westfund Holdings Pty Ltd ACN 099 738 600 as trustee for the Westfund Unit Trust
ABN 43 653 200 942. Trading as Classic Eyewear. Not a registered Health Fund.
JUNE 2009 EDITION
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