Doctors slam smoker insurance hike idea

Doctors have criticised a new proposal to charge smokers more for private health insurance, accusing Health Minister Sussan Ley of being "in the pocket" of insurers.

An online survey launched on Sunday to gauge community views on private health insurance has flagged charging different premiums for smokers and non-smokers.

It also asks consumers whether they think different premiums should be charged based on age, gender and lifestyle factors such as obesity.

Australian Medical Association president Brian Owler has accused Ms Ley of "taking up the call" of private health insurers to help their bottom lines, describing the survey as an "incredible waste of money".

He is concerned that charging different premiums for smokers and non-smokers is the first step toward a US-style health system with people eventually being excluded from insurance altogether.

"Where does it stop?" Prof Owler asked.

"She's absolutely in the pocket of the private health insurers."

Greens MP Adam Bandt said while he supports moves to deter smoking, he is concerned Australia is moving away from having a universal health system.

Ms Ley has ruled out any move to a US-style system or suggestions that smokers would not be able to get insurance.

The option of charging smokers more for insurance was under serious consideration after preliminary discussions with health insurers and consumer groups revealed strong interest.

But the option would apply to younger generations, taking into account the fact that older Australians weren't aware of the health risks when they took up the habit.

Ms Ley flagged an overhaul of the private health insurance system in October.

She's also released figures on Sunday showing half a million Australians dumped or downgraded all-inclusive health policies last year, with record numbers seeking cheaper cover.

Prof Owler said the report is "absolutely false", claiming consumers are being downgraded because insurers have forced it on them.