Southern Cross Health Society has announced a range of options to help New Zealanders financially affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The options, according to a statement by the insurer, are designed to assist members and businesses experiencing severe financial hardship due to COVID-19. These include the option for members who have experienced a loss of income and are no longer in paid work to put their policies on hold for up to six months, while members experiencing financial hardship can put policies on hold for up to three months.

During this time members are not required to pay premiums and retain their pre-existing cover while being unable to make claims, the statement said. Eligible members also have the option to add an excess to their plan, remove add-on modules or downgrade their plan to reduce their premiums.

“My message is very clear: we are here with our members every step of the way. That means if you have lost your income and need to put your health insurance policy on hold, that’s something we can offer you,” said Nick Astwick, CEO of Southern Cross Health Society.

“We are closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on our members and will be announcing further initiatives to support them shortly.”

According to Astwick, the company has taken steps to remain open and available to its members, with its entire contact centre staff working remotely. Members can submit claims online or via a mobile app, which also allows eligible members to submit claims for virtual and phone consultations with GPs and specialists.