At nib New Zealand, we want to empower our members to take better care of their health and wellbeing. As their health partner, we’re here to provide the support our members need, to help them navigate the complex health system when they require surgery or treatment.
In 2020, Maurice Trapp found himself in a position where he needed that guidance, after an old rugby injury from 40 years ago started giving him grief.
Well-known within the rugby community, Maurice coached the highly successful Auckland Provincial Rugby team in the late 80’s and early 90’s. He was later Chair of the NZ Rugby Foundation, on the board of Auckland Rugby, and President of both Auckland Rugby and New Zealand Rugby. He is also the founder of Maurice Trapp Group and was a board member of Diabetes NZ until August last year.
He remains humble in his rugby accomplishments but says decades of playing the contact sport has taken a toll on his body.
“An old knee injury finally did catch up. I was out walking one day, and it just felt like this sheet of glass – a real stabbing pain… surgery was a requirement on both knees.”
Given his issues stemmed from old sporting injuries, Maurice first sought help from ACC, lodging two claims – one for each knee.
“Then there’s a waiting game. It was frustrating because I couldn’t do exercise, I couldn’t do any of the activities I wanted to do that I loved,” he says.
When ACC’s response did come through, both requests were declined. But this outcome was sent straight to nib and Maurice’s surgical claim was submitted for pre-approval.
“Within 24 hours they had accepted it and within a week, I had surgery on both knees, operated just as I had asked for.”
Having been involved in the financial services industry for more than 40 years, he was no stranger to health insurance, but was blown away by the level of care and support he was given from nib.
“Archana, my nib Health Navigator stepped in and took care of everything. Even after surgery, Archana checked in with me. Having health insurance, and especially through nib, has been a godsend for me.”
Since his surgeries, Maurice has been able to concentrate on his rehabilitation, with nib continuing to handle matters with ACC on his behalf. This has enabled him to get back to doing what he loves sooner – including walking, cycling, kayaking and paddle boarding.
At nib, we have a dedicated team to help your clients with their ACC claims and oversee the start to end process. If you would like to find out more, click here or contact your Adviser Partner Manager.
