Understanding Pancreatic Cancer - Signs, Symptoms and When to ActByKirsty McMasterPancreatic cancer is a particularly aggressive form of cancer that presents unique challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. It is often detected late due to subtle or vague early symptoms, making it one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose in its early stages. Despite being relatively uncommon, according to Cancer Council Australia affecting approximately 4,641 Australians in 2024, pancreatic cancer has a disproportionately high mortality rate, with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners ranking it as the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Australia.Raising awareness about this disease is crucial, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. According to Pankind - Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer in Australia has improved to 13% for diagnoses made between 2015-2019, demonstrating the importance of continued research and awareness efforts.At HIF, we understand that a cancer diagnosis can be a stressful time for you and your loved ones. That's why we offer tailored programs to support you through every stage of your cancer treatment. Our comprehensive approach addresses not only the physical aspects through hospital cover, but also the emotional challenges through mental health services and practical support through our health and wellbeing programs. We're committed to supporting members across the entire cancer journey, recognising that cancer care extends far beyond medical treatment to encompass the whole person and their support network.Category:HIF News, General Medical, Conditions and TreatmentsRead More0 Comments
Prioritising Sleep Health - Your Foundation for Better LivingByKirsty McMasterIn today's demanding environment, sleep is frequently the first sacrifice when schedules become overwhelming. However, mounting scientific evidence demonstrates that quality sleep represents far more than a restorative break: it constitutes a fundamental biological requirement for optimal health and performance.At HIF, we position sleep health as one of three essential pillars of wellbeing, equally important to balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. This recognition stems from extensive research showing that adequate sleep underpins virtually every aspect of human health, from cognitive function to immune resilience.Category:HIF News, Healthy Sleep PracticesRead More0 Comments
Is It Is It Celiac Disease? Signs Your Body Might Be Reacting to GlutenByKirsty McMasterEver feel bloated, sluggish, or just off after a bowl of pasta or a warm slice of sourdough? For some, it’s a fleeting discomfort, but if these symptoms keep showing up, your body might be sounding the alarm about gluten.Category:Nutrition, General Medical, Healthy LifestyleRead More0 Comments
Goodbye Doctor Google, Hello Doctor AI - Can AI Match Doctors?ByKirsty McMasterFor years, Australians have turned to Google to self-diagnose everything from mystery headaches to late-night anxiety. But a quiet revolution is underway. The age of the AI Doctor is here.Category:HIF News, General Medical, Healthy Lifestyle, Member ValueRead More0 Comments
Is It Time to Rethink Your Healthcare with Complementary Therapies?ByKirsty McMasterWhen you think of health insurance - hospital stays, emergency visits, or dental check-ups likely come to mind. But imagine the transformative power of acupuncture easing chronic back pain, remedial massage melting away weekly stress, or physiotherapy restoring your freedom of movement. Once viewed as mere luxuries, these complementary therapies are increasingly recognised as vital for holistic health, offering a profound difference in how you nurture your well-being.Category:Mental Health, Healthy Living, Injury and RehabilitationRead More0 Comments
How Health Insurance Factors into Your Tax ReturnByKirsty McMaster16 June 2025If private health cover is voluntary in Australia, then what are Private Health Insurance (PHI) tax statements for?Category:Health InsuranceRead More0 Comments
Vaping vs Smoking - Clearing the Air on Health ImpactsByKirsty McMasterFor decades, the health risks of smoking have been widely known. Cigarettes have been linked to cancer, heart disease, and countless other preventable illnesses. As public awareness has grown, so too has the push to quit smoking altogether.Category:Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Living, Quitting SmokingRead More0 Comments
Men’s Health Isn’t Just Gym Gains - It’s Mental Health Too ByKirsty McMasterWhen people hear the term men's health, most think of exercise, protein shakes, and gym routines. While physical activity plays a role, that view barely scratches the surface.Category:Mental Health, Stress and Anxiety, Self-Care, Depression, LonelinessRead More0 Comments
What Makes Chiropractic Care So Important for Spinal Health?ByKirsty McMasterMore than 4 million Australians experience back problems at any given time, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. That’s a huge number of people living with discomfort, reduced mobility, and disruption to everyday life. Category:General Medical, Healthy Lifestyle, Extras Cover, Conditions and Treatments, Injury and RehabilitationRead More0 Comments
What Does Skin Cancer Look Like? Spotting the Early Warning SignsByKirsty McMasterAccording to Sun Smart, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, and it’s something that affects people of all ages. Given our climate and outdoor lifestyle, skin cancer remains a constant concern - and early detection makes a huge difference. According to the Cancer Council, most skin cancers can be successfully treated if caught early.Category:General Medical, Conditions and TreatmentsRead More0 Comments
Meat-Free, Not Protein-Free - Top Vegetarian Protein SourcesByKirsty McMasterWhether you're cutting back on meat, swapping out a few meals a week, or going plant-based full-time, the interest in vegetarian living is growing fast. Contrary to outdated assumptions, going meat-free doesn’t mean missing out on protein.Category:Recipes, Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy LivingRead More0 Comments
Private Health Insurance Made Simple - How It Works for You ByKirsty McMasterIt's no secret that health can be unpredictable, but the good news is that your access to care doesn’t have to be. That’s where private health insurance steps in.Category:Health Insurance, Extras Cover, Hospital Cover, Combined CoverRead More0 Comments