LEADERSHIP & STRATEGY
middle class , growing interest in wellness , and huge advancements in technology adoption . These factors are opening new avenues for healthcare in Asia , and we have an increasingly critical role to play , together with our partners , in connecting more people with health services in the region . This is why you continue to see numerous strategic investments from us in this region , including acquiring Bupa Thailand business in 2017 , acquiring CILC in Hong Kong in March this year , and opening our first primary care clinic in Thailand in April this year .
“ Looking specifically at Hong Kong , its steady political environment , focus on innovation , as well as a strong consumer awareness and familiarity with insurance products , make it a prime market offering good potential for us to introduce new and unique health cover options .
“ Its per-capita insurance premiums are among the highest in the region ; and its close ties to Mainland China and imminent introduction of a Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme , is likely to lead to the creation of new segments of insurance customers , presenting a further opportunity for product innovation .”
The mention of China is very notable , and as Aetna looks to grow its pool of 650,000 members or customers , it is one country the company has pinpointed as being key .
Aetna International ’ s products are now available in eight Asian countries , expanding from only three just five years ago , and the insurance provider hopes to increase that number considerably in the months and years ahead .
The aggressive regional expansion has been undertaken with a mindset of “ allowing the company to provide highly-localised services matched with the expertise and benefits of a wider global infrastructure ”. And it ’ s already seeing results , with the acquisition of Bupa Thailand alone adding 300,000 members and over 400 healthcare providers to Aetna International ’ s network . As well as ensuring that the growth strategy is implemented properly in the region , another thing Goldberg is passionate about is the company ’ s people . Leadership and the personal development of Aetna International ’ s employees are both topics close to his heart .
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