At age 42, Greg discovered he had high blood pressure. His GP sent him to a cardiologist for tests and advice. Greg started taking daily medication and made some lifestyle changes, but 8 months later started to experience angina pains in his chest. His cardiologist sent him for an angiogram which revealed that his best hope for a long life was coronary bypass surgery.

Over a period of 12 moths, Greg’s specialist and surgery bills totalled more than $60,000. Fortunately he had health insurance, which covered the full cost less a $500 excess.