nib expands First Choice network

Justin Vaughan

The First Choice network was created after nib identified significant variation in the cost of surgical procedures across the country.

nib group executive benefits and provider relations Justin Vaughan said the network was designed to help tackle these huge surgical cost differences and in turn, ensure members did not have any unexpected costs.

“We think it’s absurd that having a knee replacement in Auckland costs 23% more than the national average but if you have the same surgery in Christchurch you’ll pay 10% less.

“There’s no clear reason or evidence to support these higher fees or that there’s better quality healthcare."