Mental Health issues are much in the spotlight at the moment – consider this series from Stuff.co.nz, and this from the New Zealand Human Rights Commission. I have read through most of these cases and articles. I am appalled at the apparent treatment of the people in the stories I have read. I don't think enough has been done to find out the truth about what appears to be large-scale abuse. Systematic abuse and discrimination in the wider world are not the same as retaining the right to underwrite an insurance policy – but unless insurers are prepared to discuss the issue, including the messy detail, the two will be equated in the minds of the less-informed. Unless insurers can confidently demonstrate that their underwriting policies are based on data, and current data, not merely prejudice, then the the two will be equated. A wider social burden of caring for the mentally ill, and ensuring that care is free from abuse is vital, and deserves better coverage. It is also a role government should take the lead in, as insurers cannot be expected to offer cover without limitations where the risk is too high, in fairness to their other policyholders. I don't know enough about the details of this case to comment directly, described on newshub, but it clearly shows the territory that these arguments must cover.
By Russell Hutchinson – www.chatswood.co.nz