What’s the average waiting time in the public system?

Our country boasts a world-class public health system, with some of the best doctors and specialists but the extensive wait times for treatments, particularly non-emergency surgeries, can be a significant drawback for many patients. 

To navigate these delays and ensure you receive the medical attention when you need it, many individuals turn to private health insurance. If you do not have or can afford private health insurance, Australia still has a very stable public hospital and health system that can be accessed. For some treatments there will be waiting times. By understanding the average waiting times in the public system and comparing private health insurance options, you can proactively address your healthcare needs and the timing around what’s most important.

Public hospitals will prioritise surgical procedures based on urgency. Although elective surgeries, recommended by doctors for non-emergency conditions like joint replacements, cataracts, or lump removals, often lead to patients being placed on waiting lists. The duration of these waits varies depending on factors such as the required treatment, specialist availability within the public system, and proximity to the hospital. In some cases, individuals may find themselves waiting nearly a year or more for the care they need.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the healthcare system cannot be ignored. In March 2020, elective surgeries were temporarily halted, resulting in a 9.2% reduction in admissions for such surgeries compared to 2019. Despite this, the number of people waiting for surgery increased by 2.1% in the preceding year.*

These wait times for specific treatments highlighted the challenges faced by those relying solely on the public healthcare system. Septoplasty, a surgery to correct a deviated nasal septum, had the longest wait time in 2021, reaching up to 315 days. Other treatments, like total knee replacement  and cataract extractions, also had significant wait times, causing pain and potential deterioration of health for those in need.#

The average wait time on public hospital waiting lists currently stands at 43 days, but this figure masks the reality for those awaiting common treatments that can extend to almost a year. Additionally, the average wait time doesn’t account for the time between seeing a general practitioner and consulting with a specialist, which can be months in itself. ^

Taking all of this into consideration private health insurance becomes a viable solution, allowing individuals to receive prompt and cost-effective treatment in private hospitals, where waiting lists are generally shorter.

While private health insurance covers formal admissions to private hospitals, emergency care in private hospital emergency departments may not be covered until a patient is formally admitted. It is crucial to be aware of these nuances and carefully consider your insurance options to ensure comprehensive coverage.

To make an informed decision about private health insurance, it is advisable to compare various plans. You can reach out to us today at 1300 861 413 or via email at hello@health.compare to discuss and compare your private health cover options

Taking this step can empower you to proactively manage your healthcare and avoid the uncertainties of lengthy public hospital waiting lists.

Reference: 

Australian Institute of Health & Welfare

# AIHW – Elective Surgery

^ AIHW – Waiting times

Australia’s public health system is world-class, but wait times for public hospitals can be long and inconvenient. Finding private health insurance that works around the public system could help you avoid long waits for the treatments you need.

There are many benefits to Medicare but one of the major drawbacks is the long wait times for non-emergency surgery. This can often lead to prolonged periods of pain or discomfort while you wait to be treated.

This guide covers current average wait times for elective surgery and emergency care, what the longest wait times are for certain treatments, and how choosing the right private health insurance can help you avoid the back end of a long waiting list.

What are surgery waiting lists at public hospitals?

Australia’s public hospitals are busy, so all surgical procedures are prioritised in order of urgency.

If your doctor has recommended any procedure that isn’t an emergency, this is known as elective surgery and you’ll likely be placed on a waiting list.

Examples of elective surgery include joint replacements, cataracts, and removing a lump from your breast.

Wait times vary depending on the treatment your require, the availability of the specialist medical professionals, and the public hospital nearest to you. Some people will be waiting almost a year.

In March 2020, most elective surgeries were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

That meant there were 9.2% fewer Australians being admitted for elective surgery in a public hospital than in 2019, despite the number of people waiting for surgery rising by 2.1% the year before**.

Which treatments have the longest waitlists?

Of the 25 most common surgeries in 2021 in Australia, the longest wait time was for septoplasty (surgery to fix a deviated nasal septum), with a wait time of up to 315 days.

Other treatments with significant wait times include:

  • Total knee replacement – up to 293 days
  • Myringoplasty/tympanoplasty (to repair a hole in the ear drum) – up to 259 days
  • Cataract extractions – up to 158 days

These treatments aren’t considered emergencies but they can still be painful and debilitating to live with. Your condition may also deteriorate the longer you have to wait.

This is why elective surgery waiting lists are a problem for many Australians without health insurance.

What is the average wait time on a public hospital waiting list?

Across all treatments in Australia, the average wait time on public hospital waiting lists is 43 days at the time of writing.

However, some of the most common treatments have wait times of almost a year.

The average wait time also doesn’t include time between seeing a GP and a specialist, which can often be months.

Can wait times be waived if you’re a public patient?

Sadly not. The only way your wait time can be waived as a public patient is if your condition worsens significantly and is considered an emergency.

Are there waiting lists for private patients in a public hospital?

Yes, but as your private insurance is covering you, and you are being treated by your own doctor or surgeon, you may not have to wait as long.

As public hospitals are usually busy, appropriate private insurance can allow you to be treated cost effectively at a private hospital instead.

Does private health insurance cover private emergency care?

Your insurance will only cover you when you’re formally admitted to a private hospital as an inpatient.

This means a doctor has determined that you need hospital care and you have been assigned a bed.

If you arrive at a private hospital emergency department and are not formally admitted to hospital, you are considered an outpatient.

Some health funds won’t cover you in this situation.Talk to us today to compare your private health cover on 1300 861 413 or email us at hello@health.compare

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Psychology and health insurance, how do I claim?

Ensuring that your private health insurance adequately covers psychology treatments and therapies for mental well-being is a common concern for many individuals. Let’s delve  into the intricacies of coverage for these services with your private health insurance. In this blog we will explore the ways it can assist in managing your mental health, and how you can navigate the process of claiming these benefits.

When it comes to private health insurance, it’s not just about coverage for medical treatments but also about taking care of your mental health. One essential aspect is having extras, which may include benefits for psychology and counseling services. These policies typically involve your health fund covering a predetermined amount or a percentage of the service cost, leaving you responsible for the remaining balance.

Understanding the scope of coverage is crucial, as not all private health insurance plans include the same mental health services. Some common services that may be covered include counseling, provided by professionals such as psychologists, nurses, social workers, or occupational therapists. Psychologists can offer various therapies for conditions like depression, anxiety, grief, and stress. Additionally, private health insurance may extend to hospital psychiatric services, involving the expertise of psychiatrists who can prescribe medications and admit patients to hospitals.

For those dealing with stress-related conditions, some policies may cover stress management services and courses provided by recognised providers. Hypnotherapy, a therapeutic technique involving a trance-like state, may also be included in certain plans. Furthermore, individuals with hospital or package cover often have access to a 24/7 Mental Health Support Line, providing support whenever it’s needed.

Understanding the fine print is crucial, as waiting periods and annual limits may apply to these mental health services. Providers must be recognised by your private health fund before they can contribute to the bill. Some plans even offer a mental health waiver, allowing access to hospital psychiatric services after a 2-month waiting period for restricted psychiatric services, without reserving the waiting period.

A critical component of accessing mental health services is having a Mental Health Care Plan, officially known as a Mental Health Treatment Plan. This plan is a brief document created by your General Practitioner (GP), Psychiatrist, or Paediatrician after assessing your current mental health status. It serves as a gateway to receiving rebated sessions with a registered psychologist, with up to 10 Medicare-rebated sessions available each calendar year.

While you may wonder why you need to see a doctor to see a psychologist, the rationale is that your GP serves as your primary health professional. They have a comprehensive understanding of your medical and personal history, making them well-placed to oversee your general health. In addition, GPs can prescribe medication, a capability psychologists lack. Although it may mean answering similar questions during assessments, the GP’s focus is on establishing a diagnosis for a Mental Health Care Plan, while the psychologist’s aim is to create a therapy-focused map of your current situation.

In summary, navigating mental health coverage involves visiting your doctor to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan, taking it to a psychologist for up to 6 rebated sessions, returning to your doctor for a Mental Health Care Review, and potentially having up to 4 more rebated sessions with a psychologist. It’s a structured process that aims to provide comprehensive mental health support.

For more information on private health insurance coverage for mental well-being, our team is here to assist you. Feel free to reach out to us at 1300 861 413 or email us at hello@health.compare

Your mental well-being is a priority, and we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of private health insurance to ensure you receive the support you need.

One of the most asked questions is does my private health insurance cover psychology and treatments for the well-being of my mental health?

General treatment (extras) insurance for psychology and counselling. Some general treatment or extras policies you can purchase will also provide benefits towards psychology services and counselling. Your health fund will pay a set benefit or percentage of the cost of the service, and you pay the rest.

Here’s a list of mental health services and treatments some private health funds can help with the bill for, but they aren’t all included in every type of cover. Waiting periods and annual limits apply, and all extras providers must be recognised by ahm before we can help with the bill.

Counseling

Talking therapy that can be offered by a psychologist, nurse, social worker or occupational therapist.

Psychology 

Hospital psychiatric services 

Stress management 

Services and courses provided by a recognised provider to manage and prevent health conditions associated with high levels of stress. 

Hypnotherapy 

Therapy that involves putting people into a trance-like state, intended to promote focus and receptiveness to suggestions in an individual. 

24/7 support Members who have hospital or package cover have access to a 24/7 Mental Health Support Line.

Mental health waiver After a 2 month waiting period for restricted psychiatric services you can access a waiver to upgrade to cover with included hospital psychiatric services (without re-serving the waiting period). Terms and conditions apply.

What is A Mental Health Care Plan?

A Mental Health Care Plan (or a Mental Health Treatment Plan as it’s officially called) is a brief document created by your General Practitioner (GP), Psychiatrist, or Paediatrician that reviews your current mental health.

To obtain a Mental Health Care Plan you’ll need to sit down with your Doctor and complete an assessment. During this time they’ll check in on your current coping, take a short history and may ask you to complete a questionnaire.

Once this is completed your Doctor will create your plan which makes you eligible to receive 6 rebated sessions with any registered Psychologist courtesy of Medicare. After your 6 sessions you can return to your Doctor to get a “review” of your Mental Health Care Plan which may land you another 4 sessions

So each calendar year you’re entitled to receive up to 10 Medicare rebated sessions with a Psychologist.

Why Do I Have To See A Doctor To See a Psychologist?

There are a few different ideas on this, but the main view is that you GP is your main health professional. Ideally they know your medical and personal history so they are best placed to act as the overseer of your general health. They are also able to prescribe medication which a Psychologist can not do, so it’s generally helpful to have them in the loop.

Unfortunately, it does tend to mean that you’ll be asked the same questions by your Psychologist and your GP as they both have to do assessments. However, the assessments tend to have distinct aims. Whereas the GP is trying to establish a diagnosis for a Mental Health Care Plan, the Psychologist’s assessment aims to create a map of your current situation to determine the best course of therapy.

Of course, if you don’t want to involve your GP in the process of seeing a Psychologist you can still book and attend sessions. You just want be able to claim anything back through Medicare.

How Do Mental Health Care Plans Work?

Okay so let’s summarise:

  1. Visit your Doctor to get a Mental Health Care Plan
  2. Take your completed Mental Health Care Plan to a Psychologist and attend up to 6 rebated sessions
  3. Back to the Doctor to get a Mental Health Care Review done
  4. Have up to 4 more rebated sessions with a Psychologist

Our team is here to assist you with information surrounding cover for the well-being of your mental health. Feel free to call us at 1300 861 413 or email us at hello@health.compare

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Navigating the Path to Wellness: 21 Sustainable New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier You
  • A new year often serves as a catalyst for personal transformation, prompting you to set health goals that extend beyond mere resolutions. In the pursuit of optimal health, it is crucial to choose resolutions that not only enhance your overall health but are also sustainable for the long haul. In this month’s Blog we’ve given you 21 New Year’s resolutions that not only contribute to overall well-being but can be seamlessly incorporated into daily life. Some of these recommendations can be put into place with the assistance of your private health cover.

1. Prioritise Whole Foods:

  • Whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, provide essential nutrients crucial for optimal body function.
  • Research supports that a whole-foods-based diet significantly reduces heart disease risk factors, body weight, and blood sugar levels.
  • Begin by gradually incorporating more whole foods into your diet, making it a sustainable lifestyle change.

2. Embrace Active Living:

  • Combat the adverse effects of prolonged sitting by resolving to move more throughout the day.
  • Tailor this resolution to your lifestyle, such as incorporating short walks during work breaks or committing to regular physical activity that aligns with your interests and time.

3. Reduce Sweetened Beverage Intake:

  • Acknowledge the health risks associated with sugary drinks, including obesity, fatty liver, and heart disease.
  • Gradually minimise the intake of sugary drinks to break the habit, promoting sustained improvements in overall health.

4. Prioritise Quality Sleep:

  • Recognise the vital role of sleep in overall health, with insufficient sleep linked to weight gain, heart disease, and depression. It’s crucial to get at least 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. 
  • Focus on lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing screen time before bed and establishing a consistent sleep schedule.

5. Find Physical Activities of Interest:

  • Instead of succumbing to the allure of pricey gym memberships, choose physical activities based on personal enjoyment and convenience. If you take a vested interest in the activity – you are more likely to stick to it.
  • Set realistic goals to ensure new exercise routines become lasting habits, enhancing the likelihood of success. Look into what benefits you can claim through your private health cover, often you can claim back gym membership and more. 

6. Prioritise ‘Me Time’ and Self-Care:

  • Acknowledge the importance of self-care for optimal health, especially if your lifestyle is busy.
  • Make deliberate plans for self-care activities, even if they are simple, to foster a healthier work-life balance.

7. Cook More Meals at Home:

  • Embrace the benefits of home-cooked meals, which are associated with better diet quality and lower body fat.
  • Gradually increase the frequency of home-cooked meals to make a lasting impact on your overall health.

8. Spend More Time Outdoors:

  • Leverage the positive effects of outdoor activities on stress relief, mood elevation, and blood pressure reduction.
  • Incorporate nature into your routine through activities like walking, hiking, or simply enjoying your local park.

9. Limit Screen Time:

  • Acknowledge the potential negative impacts of excessive screen time, particularly on mental health.
  • Set a resolution to reduce time spent on electronic devices, fostering improved mood and increased productivity.

10. Embrace Meditation:

  • Recognise the evidence-based benefits of meditation for mental well-being, particularly for anxiety and depression.
  • Explore various meditation practices through books, podcasts, or apps, making it an achievable and sustainable resolution.

11. Reduce Reliance on Convenience Foods:

  • Acknowledge the adverse health effects of frequent consumption of convenience foods.
  • Commit to preparing more meals at home using nutritious ingredients, gradually shifting away from processed options.

12. Reconsider Dieting Approaches:

  • Understand the detrimental effects of chronic dieting on physical and mental health.
  • Shift focus to a sustainable approach, emphasising increased physical activity and healthier food choices over restrictive fad diets.

13. Regular Grocery Shopping:

  • Make a resolution to visit the supermarket regularly, ensuring a well-stocked pantry with nutritious ingredients. Check out your extras policy with your private health cover, you may have cover to visit a nutritionist to start you on your new year’s health goals. 
  • Designate a specific day each week for grocery shopping to prioritize a diet centered around wholesome foods.

14. Increase Fresh Food Consumption:

  • Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, benefiting overall health and protecting against various illnesses.
  • Explore diverse cooking methods to make produce a flavorful and integral part of your meals.

15. Moderate Alcohol Consumption:

  • Acknowledge the impact of excessive alcohol consumption on health and wellness goals.
  • Set achievable limits, such as drinking only on weekends or adhering to a weekly drink limit, fostering a healthier relationship with alcohol.

16. Practice Mindfulness:

  • Recognise the positive impact of being present on life satisfaction and psychological health.
  • Incorporate simple mindfulness practices, such as reducing phone usage and actively engaging with your surroundings, into your daily routine.

17.  Prioritise Holiday Time:

  • Acknowledge the immediate positive effects of vacations on stress levels and overall well-being.
  • Make a resolution to take regular breaks, whether short getaways or staycations, fostering a healthier work-life balance.

18. Explore New Hobbies:

  • Rediscover the joy of hobbies, as research indicates their positive impact on longevity and overall health.
  • Commit to trying out a new hobby or reviving an old one to add joy and fulfillment to your life.

19. Promote Positive Body Image:

  • Recognise the detrimental effects of negative body talk on self-esteem and body satisfaction.
  • Resolve to engage in positive self-talk regularly, fostering a healthier relationship with your body and encouraging a positive environment for others.

20. Regular Health Check-ups:

  • Prioritise regular visits to your GP for check-ups, screenings, and necessary blood work.
  • Tailor the frequency based on your age, medical history, and the type of medical care you require.

21. Maintain Oral Health:

  • Sustain oral health by committing to regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. If you have an extras policy with your private health cover, you will be entitled to a yearly dental check-up.
  • Recognise the potential associations between gum disease and serious health conditions like Alzheimer’s and heart disease.

While New Year’s resolutions often wane with time, these 20 resolutions are designed to create lasting improvements in both physical and emotional health. By fostering a healthier relationship with food, prioritising self-care, and incorporating sustainable habits into daily life, this year and the years to come can be the healthiest and happiest possible. Look into the benefits you can claim through your private health cover to help you on your health journey. 


Talk to us today to compare private health cover that’s best for you – call on 1300 861 413 or email hello@health.compare

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What are the biggest health funds in Australia?

In the vast and competitive realm of private health insurance, choosing the best health coverage can be a daunting task. With over 40 insurers in the market, it’s surprising that only a handful are widely recognised. Dominating the landscape are major players such as Medibank Private, ahm, Bupa, HCF (including RT Health), NIB Health, and HBF Health. Understanding the nuances of each provider is crucial for making an informed decision about your private health insurance. In this detailed exploration, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of some of the leading private health insurance plans, shedding light on key aspects like complaints ratings, out-of-pocket costs, and unique offerings.

Medibank Private: Balancing Act

Medibank Private, boasting a 27.4% market share, is a significant player in the Australian private health insurance scene. Let’s weigh the pros and cons of choosing Medibank as your health coverage provider.

Pros:

  1. Complaints Rating: Medium, indicating a reasonable level of customer satisfaction.
  2. Out-of-pocket Rating: Average in various regions, ensuring a fair balance between coverage and costs.
  3. Special Benefits: No excess for children on hospital and combined policies, providing financial relief for families.
  4. Student-Friendly: Free cover for full-time students under 31 on family policies, catering to the younger demographic.
  5. Extended Family Policies: Families with adult children under 31 can benefit from extended coverage.
  6. Discounts: Attractive discounts for individuals joining under the age of 30.

Cons:

  1. Discount Limitations: Lack of direct debit or prepayment discounts may be a drawback for some customers.
  2. Regional Variations: Out-of-pocket ratings vary, with below-average scores in South Australia, Queensland, and well below average in Western Australia.

Bupa: A Comprehensive Coverage Choice

With a substantial 24.7% market share, Bupa is another major player in the Australian health insurance market. Let’s explore the pros and cons of choosing Bupa for your health coverage.

Pros:

  1. Complaints Rating: Medium, indicating a reasonable level of customer satisfaction.
  2. Out-of-pocket Rating: Varied, with above-average scores in some regions and average scores in others.
  3. Excess Waiver: No excess for children on most hospital and combined policies, making it family-friendly.
  4. Student Benefits: Free cover for full-time students under 32 on family policies, catering to the educational demographic.
  5. Extended Family Coverage: Families with adult children under 32 can benefit from extended coverage.
  6. Discounts: Attractive discounts for individuals joining under the age of 30.

Cons:

  • Discount Limitations: Similar to Medibank, Bupa lacks direct debit or prepayment discounts.

HCF: The Nonprofit Choice

As a nonprofit health fund, HCF holds a 12.4% market share. Let’s examine the pros and cons of choosing HCF for your health insurance needs.

Pros:

  1. Nonprofit Status: HCF operates as a nonprofit, potentially aligning with customers seeking socially responsible options.
  2. Complaints Rating: Medium, reflecting a reasonable level of customer satisfaction.
  3. Out-of-pocket Rating: Average in most regions, ensuring a balanced approach to coverage and costs.
  4. Excess Waiver: No excess for children on most hospital and combined policies, providing family-friendly benefits.
  5. Student Benefits: Free cover for full-time students under 31 on family policies, catering to the educational demographic.
  6. Extended Family Coverage: Families with adult children under 31 can benefit from extended coverage.
  7. Premium Lock-In Option: The ability to prepay and lock in premiums for 18 months, offering stability in costs.

Cons:

  1. Discount Limitations: Similar to the previous insurers, HCF lacks direct debit or prepayment discounts.
  2. Age-Related Discounts: No discounts for individuals joining under the age of 30.

NIB: Balanced Coverage with Discounts

NIB Health, capturing a 9.4% market share, is known for its balanced coverage options. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of choosing NIB for your health coverage.

Pros:

  1. Out-of-pocket Rating: Average in various regions, ensuring a fair balance between coverage and costs.
  2. Excess Waiver: No excess for children on hospital and combined policies, providing family-friendly benefits.
  3. Student Benefits: Free cover for full-time students under 31 on family policies, catering to the educational demographic.
  4. Extended Family Coverage: Families with adult children under 31 can benefit from extended coverage.
  5. Discounts: Attractive discounts for individuals joining under the age of 30.
  6. Direct Debit Discounts: Additional discounts for customers opting for direct debit payments.

Cons:

  • Regional Variations: Out-of-pocket ratings vary, with below-average scores in some regions.
  • Discount Limitations: Similar to other insurers, NIB lacks prepayment discounts.

HBF Health: Nonprofit Stability

HBF Health, with a 7.3% market share, stands out as a nonprofit health fund. Let’s assess the pros and cons of choosing HBF for your health insurance needs.

Pros:

  1. Nonprofit Status: As a nonprofit, HBF may appeal to customers seeking socially responsible options.
  2. Complaints Rating: Medium, indicating a reasonable level of customer satisfaction.
  3. Out-of-pocket Rating: Varied, with above-average scores in Western Australia and average scores elsewhere.
  4. Excess Waiver: No excess for children on hospital and combined policies, providing family-friendly benefits.
  5. Student Benefits: Adult children under 25 are covered on family policies for free if they’re full-time students or earning up to $24,500 per year.
  6. Discounts: Direct debit and prepayment discounts available.
  7. Premium Lock-In Option: The ability to prepay and lock in premiums for 18 months, offering stability in costs.

Cons:

  1. Discount Limitations: HBF does not offer discounts for individuals joining under the age of 30.
  2. Extended Family Coverage: Unlike some competitors, HBF does not provide extended family policies.

Best Funds for Low Out-of-Pocket Costs

For those prioritising low out-of-pocket costs, two standout options are Bupa and HBF. These insurers offer at least average gap protection in all states and above-average protection in one or more states. The gap rating, reflecting the likelihood of incurring out-of-pocket costs, plays a crucial role in assessing the overall value of health insurance plans.

Gap (Out-of-Pocket Costs) Ratings:

  • Bupa:
    • Above average in Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria.
    • Average everywhere else.
  • HBF:
    • Above average in Western Australia.
    • Average everywhere else.
  • HCF:
    • Average in the ACT, NSW, Queensland, the Northern Territory, Victoria, and Tasmania.
    • Below average in South Australia and Western Australia.
  • Medibank:
    • Average in NSW, Victoria, the Northern Territory, Tasmania, and the ACT.
    • Below average in South Australia and Queensland.
    • Well below average in Western Australia.
  • NIB:
    • Average in NSW, South Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia.
    • Below average in the ACT, the Northern Territory, Queensland, and Victoria.

These gap ratings are essential indicators, representing the percentage of procedures in hospitals where members of the fund paid out-of-pocket costs (the gap payment). Choosing a plan with a lower gap rating can significantly reduce the likelihood of unexpected expenses.

Navigating the landscape of private health insurance in Australia requires a careful consideration of various factors. The choice between Medibank, Bupa, HCF, NIB, and HBF depends on individual preferences, budget constraints, and specific coverage needs. 

Understanding what’s on offer for each provider will empower you to make an informed decision about your private health coverage. Our team is here to assist you with your enquiry about private health cover.  Feel free to call us at 1300 861 413 or email us at hello@health.compare

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