What’s Behind the Collapse of Australia’s 2nd Largest Private Healthcare Provider?

Rising costs and a troubled relationship with insurers have been blamed for Healthscope’s challenges.

A general view of signage at Hobart Private Hospital, in Hobart, Tasmania, on Feb. 20, 2025. Healthscope has decided to close maternity wards at Darwin Private Hospital and Hobart Private Hospital, citing declining birth rates and staffing challenges. AAP Image/Ethan James

News Analysis

Analysts say the collapse of Healthscope, Australia’s second-largest private hospital operator, reveals deeper structural problems with the sector.