HBF is urging its members to download the Federal Government’s COVIDSafe app to help suppress the spread of the virus.
HBF Chief Executive Officer John Van Der Wielen and his Executive team have downloaded the app and encourage members and employees to do likewise.
“As the largest health insurer in Western Australia, it would be remiss of HBF not to support a measure that has the potential to save lives, prevent our health system from becoming overwhelmed, and bring us closer to returning to normal routine,” he said.
“I encourage every HBF member to download the app and to ask three friends or family to do the same. That would immediately ensure a majority of the WA population is registered.”
HBF Chief Health Advisor Professor Hugh Dawkins said Australia had drawn on global experience to contain the virus and the app was not just a technical tool but a critical part of a wider public health strategy.
“The app can potentially reach those who are missed in manual contact tracing efforts,” he said.
“It also means Australians living with chronic respiratory disorders and complex conditions such as cystic fibrosis, diabetes or kidney disease can still access the health services they need with minimum risk.
“COVIDSafe, through the automated, dynamic tracking of potential community contacts, will ensure the virus spread and health services capacity are well-managed in this next phase of relaxing community restrictions.”
Media enquiries: Lauren Underhill/Jodi Eastman 0438 925 050 / CorporateAffairs@hbf.com.au