This report is presented in five chapters: minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-latin">

• Chapter 1 provides a background to the committee's inquiry and an overview of the value and affordability of private health insurance and out-of-pocket medical costs in Australia;

• Chapter 2 examines the challenges faced by consumers in terms of the affordability and out-of-pocket medical costs associated with private health insurance, including trends in the decline and downgrading of coverage;

• Chapter 3 examines the economic structures of private health insurance, including factors which increase and constrain premiums;

• Chapter 4 examines the role of private health insurance in different health contexts, including public hospitals, private and day hospitals, dentistry, allied and primary health care;

• Chapter 5 concludes the committee's considerations and makes recommendations. minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-latin">