Group Plus Financial Services

Don't Be a Statistic: Be Proactive About Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer is a significant health issue in New Zealand. Each year, more than 1,200 Kiwis die from bowel cancer, and over 3,000 are diagnosed with it. It is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the country, with New Zealand having one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world.
The good news is that bowel cancer is highly treatable if caught early. That's why getting screened is crucial.
Why Screening Matters
Research from nib shows that many Kiwis are behind on or haven't done their bowel cancer screening, even though free kits are available. Early detection is key, with over 75% of cases treatable when found early.
Bowel cancer screening kits, such as the faecal immunochemical test (FIT), can detect potential issues at an early stage. These at-home kits are quick, clean, and simple, allowing individuals to screen for bowel cancer comfortably and conveniently.
Signs to Watch Out For
While age is a risk factor, anyone can get bowel cancer. Here are some signs to be aware of:
• Blood in your stools
• Change in bowel habits lasting over 6 weeks (diarrhoea, constipation)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Other Risk Factors
Age: In New Zealand, 90% of people diagnosed with bowel cancer are over 50. It’s essential to be aware of the increased risk as you age.
Family History and Genetics: A family history of bowel cancer, especially if diagnosed before the age of 55, can almost double your risk. Close relatives such as parents, siblings, and children with bowel cancer increase your risk. Extended blood relatives with the condition can also contribute to a higher risk, particularly if there is a history of inheriting certain rare bowel cancer syndromes or genetic mutations.
Lifestyle Factors and Other Diseases: Certain lifestyle factors and medical conditions can increase your risk of developing bowel cancer. These include smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, a diet high in red or processed meats, being overweight or obese, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
Take Control of Your Health With Free and Easy Screening Options
The government offers free at-home test kits through the National Bowel Screening Programme for those aged 60-74 (50-74 for Māori and Pacific people).
Nib is also offering a Bowel Screening Programme for eligible members aged 50-75 (45-75 for Māori and Pacific people) with Hospital Cover. This program provides free at-home test kits earlier than the national programme as well as one-on-one support from a nib Wellness Coach if you require treatment.
Feel Free to make contact with us using the link below if you would like more information.
https://www.groupplus.co.nz/contact

Merry Christmas and roll on 2023. Make sure you take some time to relax 😊

One of the biggest insurance myths is that your claim won’t be paid out. We’ve put together a few key claims statistics from some of the biggest insurance providers to demonstrate that that's not the case.

We’ve put together a few key claims statistics from some of the biggest insurance providers in New Zealand to help you understand that insurance really is worth it.

1. In 2021, Asteron Life paid out over $100 million in cover.

Over 93% of all of the insurance claims that were submitted were accepted, and almost 100% (99%) of all Life Insurance product claims were accepted.

2. Fidelity Life paid out 93% of all claims in their last financial year.

This came to a grand total of $142.9 million being paid out in claims to help those clients who needed it.

3. Resolution Life (formerly AMP) paid out over $200 million in claims in 2020

They supported their clients during their time of need, making a total of $201 million in claims payments.

4. Last year, Cigna accepted more than 93% of insurance claims.

This came to a total of $114.7 million in claims that was paid out to clients in need.

5. In 2021, AIA paid out a whopping $620.6 million in claims.

The insurance giant also accepted 94% of all claims they received last year.

As you can see, the myth that insurance companies don’t pay out isn’t as factual as people would have you believe. Many people can feel disgruntled that they are paying towards something they might never use - but if you don’t need to use your insurance, you should count yourself lucky!

It’s important to also understand that your premium isn’t really paying for other people’s claims. When you pay your insurance premiums, you’re paying for the risk that you yourself could have to make a claim someday.

If you have any questions about your insurance or want any more information on insurance claims, get in touch! We’re happy to help.

Don’t let pre-existing conditions hold you back from getting the healthcare you need. nib can give you the security and confidence of knowing that many of your pre-existing conditions are covered after 3 years when you sign up to a new Ultimate Health or Ultimate Health Max plan through Group Plus Financial Services before 28 February 2023. * T&Cs apply.

Need help figuring out what insurance is best for you? Contact our pros today to learn more about different insurance options.

Protect your belongings!

Contents insurance is a great safety net if your belongings are damaged, lost or stolen and transferring the risk and cost to an insurance company is something our team can help with.

In the meantime, here are some useful tips to minimise the risk of needing to claim;

Installing a burglar alarm: monitored security alarms have proven to be the most effective way to combat unwanted visitors and have the added benefit of reducing your insurance premiums.

Lock and secure windows and doors: Fresh air is nice in the warmer months but close and latch them if heading out.

Use technology to your advantage: Set outside light sensors on as this will help keep those unwanted visitors away.

Mind the landscaping: Trees and shrubs give unwanted intruders a place to hide, so get them trimmed regularly so that doors and windows are visible from the street.

Make friends with your neighbours: You can ask them to keep an eye out for anything suspicious.

Regularly clear your mailbox: Especially when you are away for a long time and don’t want burglars to know .

Secure your garden shed and garage: Not only are they full of valuables and easy-to-steal tools, but they usually contain implements that thieves can use to break into your home.

Keep your most expensive stuff out of sight: Take a quick look to see if any valuables are visible from windows or doors, and if they are, find a new place for them.

Don’t advertise that you’ll be away on social media: if you’re planning a holiday and want to share your adventures on social media, make sure it can only be seen by close friends.

Turn off the water at the main supply: To avoid water damage from leaking or burst pipes while the house is unintended.

Interesting and insightful economic commentary with a focus on property.

s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com

An interesting read.

New Zealand property values up by almost 300% since 2003 Since December 2003 (i.e. almost 20 years ago), the national average property value has risen from $263,562 to $1,027,121 – an increase of $763,559, or a cumulative 290%. That represents an annual average increase per year of around 7.5%.New Zealand property values up by almost 300% since 2003 Sin...

We often get asked what types of Car Insurance cover options are available in NZ.

There are three main types of Insurance -Third Party only, Third Party, Fire & Theft and Comprehensive Cover.

Third Party cover is a very basic cover and often the cheapest as it provides limited cover and Third Party, Fire & Theft includes fire and theft covers and costs a little more.

Comprehensive Cover provides in depth cover for yourself, and other people or property damaged by you in an accident.

Need to review your car, house or contents covers? Message us and we will be happy to help.

From our family to yours, we would like to wish you a Wonderful Christmas and a safe and happy 2022!

Our offices will close over the festive break, but we can be contacted by email or by calling 0800 320 400.

Enjoy spending time with your family and friends 😊

Kind regards,
Owen, Shearene and the Team