What happens when I switch private health funds?

Are you thinking about switching private health funds but don’t know where to begin? The process can be daunting, but we’re here to help. Let us guide you through the steps to switch private health funds and give you some tips to make it easier.

Why should you consider switching private health funds?

There are a variety of reasons, such as your current policy no longer suiting your needs or you want to reduce your premiums. Maybe you’ve heard good things from friends about other health funds and want to explore what they offer. Regardless, it’s crucial to compare private health insurance options to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs.

Step 1: Compare Private Health Insurance Options

Start by identifying what you need and want from your policy. Do you need coverage for a specific condition? Are you looking for extras like dental or optical coverage? Once you know what you need, start researching different funds to find a policy that suits you.

When comparing private health insurance policies, look beyond the price tag. Consider the level of coverage you need, the excess you’re willing to pay, and any additional benefits or perks that may be included with the policy. Look for policies that offer a balance of coverage and affordability, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if there’s anything you’re unsure about.

Step 2: Apply for Your New Private Health Policy

When you have found the right level of cover, its time to start organising the transfer. This part is relatively simple and typically completed over the phone. During this process a number actions will occur, your new membership pack will be organised, your waiting periods will transfer from your existing fund and your direct debit details will automatically be cancelled. You won’t have to have any uncomfortable conversations with your old fund during this process. Ensure you have all the necessary information and documents on hand, such as your Medicare card and any relevant medical history, to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 3: Cancel Your Current Policy

As mentioned before you wont need to worry about any uncomfortable conversations with your current private health fund. Your new private health provider will contact your previous fund and cancel the policy and the direct debit on your behalf. This will enable you to claim with your new fund.

Step 4: Review Your New Policy

Before you relax and sit back, it’s important to give your health insurance policy a careful read. Start by going over the specifics of your coverage, such as waiting periods, excess amounts, and benefit limits. Remember, any waiting periods that you’ve already served with your previous health fund will carry over to your new one in accordance with health insurance regulations. Be sure you understand what’s covered and what’s not, and don’t hesitate to ask your new health insurer any questions you may have. It’s crucial to make sure that your policy is tailored to your individual needs and that you’re getting the most bang for your buck. So, take your time and give it a thorough review!

Switching private health funds doesn’t have to be challenging.

Visit https://health.compare/ to compare private health funds and find the policy that best suits you. Alternatively, speak to one of our friendly team members by calling 1300 861 413 or emailing us at hello@health.compare  

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Dental waiting periods explained

When it comes to dental work, nobody wants to wait – especially if you are in pain. Waiting periods are a fact of life when it comes to private health cover, and they can vary depending on the type of dental procedure you require. Policies can vary from provider to provider, so we have put together a quick guide of what to look for when it comes to wait times for dental procedures. 

What is a waiting period?

Dental waiting periods are a set amount of time that you have to wait before you can claim on certain dental procedures included on your private health policy. This waiting period is put in place by your private health insurance provider and is designed to ensure that you have held your policy for a certain amount of time before you can start claiming benefits.

Waiting periods can vary between policies and providers, but generally, you can expect a waiting period of around 2-6 months for general dental procedures, and up to 12 months for major dental work such as crowns or bridges.

What dental procedures have waiting periods?

The waiting periods for dental procedures can vary between policies and providers, but in general, you can expect waiting periods for the following types of procedures:

  • General dental procedures: waiting periods of 2-6 months may apply for procedures such as check-ups, scale and cleans, fillings, and extractions.
  • Major dental procedures: waiting periods of up to 12 months may apply for more complex procedures such as root canals, crowns, bridges, and dentures.
  • Orthodontic treatments: waiting periods of up to 12 months may apply for orthodontic treatments such as braces or aligners.

It’s important to note that some private health policies may also have waiting periods for other dental procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions or periodontal treatments. So, make sure you check the specifics of your policy to ensure you understand the waiting periods that apply to your cover. Compare private health insurance options with various providers and see what suits your current health requirements.

No Waiting Period

A waiting period is the amount of time you have to wait before you can claim benefits on your extras dental cover. The length of the waiting period can vary depending on the health insurance provider and the type of dental cover you have. However, some health insurance providers offer no waiting period for certain dental services, such as check-ups and cleaning.

Three types of Dental procedures explained

There are three main types of dental procedures: preventative, general and major. Preventative procedures include things like check-ups, cleans and x-rays. General procedures include fillings and extractions, while major procedures include things like root canals, crowns and bridges.

Preventative procedures usually have shorter waiting periods than general and major procedures. For example, most private health insurance policies have a waiting period of two months for preventative procedures. This means that you can claim for a check-up, clean or x-ray after two months of holding your policy.

General procedures usually have longer waiting periods than preventative procedures. The usual waiting period is six months for general procedures. This means that you can claim for a filling or extraction after six months of holding your private health policy.

Major procedures usually have the longest waiting periods, these are usually a waiting period of 12 months for major procedures. This means that you can claim for a root canal, crown or bridge after 12 months of holding your policy.

Do any health insurance providers offer no waiting period?

Some private health insurance providers may waive dental waiting periods as part of a promotion or special offer if you are a new member. It pays to compare private health policies as a number of health insurers may offer to waive two- and six-month waits on services such as dental, optical and physio by signing up to a combined hospital and extras cover plan.

Does Medicare cover dental services?

Medicare does not generally cover dental services. However, some dental services may be covered under Medicare in certain circumstances, such as if the dental treatment is required in a hospital setting. This includes essential dental services for some children and adults who are eligible. Medicare offers a $1000 rebate over 2 calendar years for kids aged 2 to 17 years for basic dental work. Adults with  a Health Care Card or Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card may also be eligible.#

Taking care of your dental health is just as important as taking care of your overall health. However, dental procedures and treatments can be expensive, making dental extras insurance a valuable investment for many individuals and families. It pays to compare private health funds and explore the different types of dental extras coverage available, whether any health insurance providers offer no waiting periods, and whether you are eligible for Medicare coverage with any dental services.

Compare health insurance dental coverage today by visiting  https://health.compare/ or speak to one of our friendly team members call 1300 861 413 /  email hello@health.compare

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Who has the highest claim limit for Physiotherapy?

This month we’ll explore why physiotherapy Extras are important when it comes to your private health policy and how to get the best out of your cover. Physiotherapy is the third most claimed extras cover in Australia. It can be beneficial for a range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, and rehabilitation after surgery. With extras cover, your private health policy you can access a range of physiotherapy services including consultations, assessments, and treatments such as exercise therapy, massage and electrotherapy.

Why are physiotherapy extras important?

Physio focuses on improving your physical function and reducing pain. It’s a critical part of rehabilitation following an injury or surgery, managing chronic pain conditions, and maintaining overall physical health. However, the cost of physiotherapy can quickly add up, particularly for those who require ongoing treatment.

This is where your Extras part of your private health policy comes into play. With Extras cover, you can receive rebates on the cost of physio, reducing the financial burden on you and your family. Depending on your policy, you may also be able to access additional services such as chiropractic, osteopathy, and remedial massage.

Who has the highest claim level for physiotherapy?

Here’s some of the groups that have the highest claim levels for physiotherapy Extras in Australia:

  1. Those aged 65 and over – This group accounted for the highest number of claims and the highest overall cost of physiotherapy.
  2. Those with chronic conditions – Patients with chronic conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and sports injuries often require ongoing physiotherapy.
  3. Those with private hospital cover – Patients who have undergone surgery or been hospitalised for an injury often require post-operative physiotherapy as part of their recovery.
  4. Those living in regional areas – Patients in regional areas may have limited access to healthcare providers and may require more frequent or intensive physiotherapy treatment.

How to get the best out of your physiotherapy extras cover

If you have physiotherapy extras cover, there are several ways you can ensure that you’re getting the most value from your policy. Here are eight tips to keep in mind:

  1. Understand your private health policy – Take the time to read through your policy’s terms and conditions, so you know exactly what’s covered and what’s not.
  2. Choose a preferred provider – Many private health funds have preferred providers, who offer higher rebates and lower out-of-pocket costs. Find out if your physiotherapist is a preferred provider and consider switching if they’re not.
  3. Check the waiting periods – Most extras policies have waiting periods before you can claim benefits. Make sure you understand these waiting periods, so you’re not caught out.
  4. Don’t exceed your annual limits – Many private health policies have annual limits on how much you can claim for physiotherapy. Keep track of your claims throughout the year, so you don’t exceed these limits.
  5. Consider bundling policies – If you have other health needs, such as dental or optical, consider bundling your policies with the same health fund. This can often result in lower overall costs and higher rebates.
  6. Use your benefits regularly – Regular physiotherapy can help prevent injury and improve overall physical health. Don’t wait until you’re in pain to use your benefits.
  7. Keep your receipts – Make sure you keep all receipts and invoices for physiotherapy treatments, as you’ll need them to make a claim with your private health provider.
  8. Compare private health insurance – Finally, don’t be afraid to shop around and compare policies from different health funds. You may be able to find a policy that better suits your needs and budget.

In conclusion, physiotherapy extras are an essential part of any private health policy. It can help reduce the financial burden of physiotherapy treatment and promote overall physical health and well-being. By understanding your policy, choosing a preferred provider, and comparing private health plans before going ahead will assist in your wellness journey.

Compare private health insurance coverage today by visiting  https://health.compare/ or speak to one of our friendly team members call 1300 861 413 /  email hello@health.compare

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Will I get a refund if I change my health insurance?

If you change your private health insurance, you will be entitled to a refund of any premiums you have paid in advance. The amount of the refund will depend on the number of days you haven’t used on your policy at the time of your cancellation.

Any refunds will take place on the completion of your health insurance transfer. The refund will happen automatically once your new policy has been setup. This refund by law can take up to 21 business days to complete.

Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that if you cancel your policy, you may lose any continuity of cover benefits you have accumulated. Continuity of cover benefits can help you avoid waiting periods and exclusions when you take out a new policy, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding or ensure you transfer within a certain period of time. Those time frames vary by health fund. Reach out to us to find out more.

In summary, you are entitled to a refund with your private health insurance when you switch or transfers your health insurance. The amount of refund will be determined by the pro rata amount of unused premiums. For more information on transferring or switching, give us a call!

Thinking of moving funds? Find the best health coverage today by speaking to one of our friendly team members call 1300 861 413 or email hello@health.compare

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How long can my kids stay on my health insurance policy?

Your children are typically able to stay on parents’ private health insurance policy until they turn 21 years old. However, there are some exceptions to this rule where coverage can be up to 31 years old.

If a child is still considered a student dependent, they can remain on their parents’ policy beyond the age of 21. A student dependent is defined as a child who is not financially independent, is not married, and is not in a de facto relationship. This means that if a child is studying full-time and is not financially independent, they can continue to be covered by their parents’ private health insurance policy.

In April 2021, the government increased the age cap for adult children appearing on their parents’ policy up to 31 years of age. This means if the children are not studying full time, not in a de facto relationship for an additional charge some health funds will continue to cover children up until their 31st birthdays.

It’s important to note that each private health insurance company has their own policies and rules regarding dependent children. Some may have different age limits or may have different definitions of what constitutes a dependent child. It’s important to check with your private health insurance provider to understand their policies and to ensure that your children are properly covered.

Talk to us today and find the best health coverage that suits your family.

To compare private health insurance speak to one of our friendly team members at 1300 861 413 or hello@health.compare

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Do you play sport? What you need to know about sport and Private Health Insurance

Sports and physical activity play a vital role in maintaining good health and well-being. Not only do they both help to improve physical fitness and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, but they also have a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being. However, for many, the cost of potential injury from participating in sport and physical activity can be a barrier. This is where private health cover can assist. In this blog post, we will discuss what you need to know to find the best health coverage for any sport related treatments and injuries and what private health insurance you will need to be covered adequately. Also, we’ll include a list of the benefits that private health insurance has for sports-related injuries and the different types of cover available.

Naturally private health insurance is valuable for the overall population, however private health can be even more critical for athletes, sports players, and regular gym goers.  As these activities can sometimes aggressive or dangerous in nature, athletes are prone to more injuries than the general population.

What are the most common Sports injuries?

Overall, there is a lot to consider when it comes to sport and private health cover, but with the right information and resources, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure that they have the best possible coverage and support for their sports-related needs.

Here’s a list of potential injuries can sports people and athletes incur:

⦁ Sprains and strains
⦁ Bone fractures and dislocations
⦁ Concussions and head injuries
⦁ Knee injuries, such as ACL tears
⦁ Shoulder injuries, such as rotator cuff tears
⦁ Back and spinal injuries
⦁ Hand and wrist injuries
⦁ Foot and ankle injuries
⦁ Dislocations and dislocations
⦁ Soft tissue damage, such as tears in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

How to choose the right private health policy for sports-related injuries?

It’s a good idea as an athlete or sportsperson to assess the nature of your sport (i.e. Intensity and frequency of participation) to determine what private health coverage you will need. The health fund will also consider your previous injuries and pre-existing aliments. So be sure to check the fine print and waiting periods for these issues to make sure you are covered.

One of the main benefits of private health insurance for sports people is that it can provide access to specialised treatment and rehabilitation services that may not be available through the public healthcare system. This can include things like physiotherapy, sports psychology, knee operations and rehabilitation and even specialised sports clinics. Additionally, private health insurance may also help to cover the cost of surgeries and other medical procedures that may be necessary to treat sports-related injuries.

Another important consideration for individuals is the issue of pre-existing conditions and sports participation. In many cases, individuals with pre-existing conditions may have difficulty obtaining private health insurance coverage for sports-related injuries. This can sometimes be overcome by serving a longer waiting period on the service required. However, it is important to note that there are several options available for individuals with pre-existing conditions, including coverage through the public healthcare system although the wait times may be much longer. Additionally, it is important to shop around and compare private health insurance plans
to ensure that you are getting the best coverage for your needs.

What treatments will be covered under my private health insurance policy?

Because private health policies may not cover all potential or likely sports risks, those who participate in sports activities often should consider additional supplemental health insurance options to ensure that they are truly covered in the event of an accident or sports injury.

⦁ Acupuncture
⦁ Ambulance
⦁ Chiropractic
⦁ Dental
⦁ Elective surgery
⦁ Massage
⦁ Naturopathy
⦁ Osteopathy
⦁ Podiatry
⦁ Physiotherapy
⦁ Private hospital
⦁ Rehabilitation

In addition to private health insurance, there are numerous other resources available to sports enthusiasts, including government-funded sports programs, community sports clubs, and professional sports organisations. These resources can provide access to training, equipment, and other resources that can help to prevent sports-related injuries and promote overall health and wellness.

Will Medicare cover any sports related medical care?

Sports related surgeries are usually deemed non-emergency by Medicare. In other words, most sporting injuries that require surgery will lead to elective surgeries under Medicare.  The wait time for Medicare elective surgeries can span over months or even years depending on the severity of your injury.  

While Medicare alone may be adequate for some, those who are active with sports may find that they face out-of-pocket costs when using Medicare alone. Athletes must consider their individual circumstances and sporting activity to determine if Medicare alone will suffice or if additional private health coverage is needed.

In conclusion, private health insurance can be an important resource for athletes and sports enthusiasts, providing access to specialised treatment and rehabilitation services to help cover the cost of surgeries and other medical procedures. However, it is important to consider a number of factors when choosing a private health insurance plan, including budget, waiting periods, and pre-existing conditions.

Reach out to us today and find the best health coverage that suits your sporting lifestyle.

To compare private health insurance speak to one of our friendly team members on 1300 861 413 or hello@health.compare

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Dental – Health Insurance, How Does it Work?

Dental health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, yet many people struggle to afford necessary dental care due to the cost of the treatment. Having dental as part of your private health insurance can help alleviate the financial burden you may incur from a trip to the dentist but trying to understand how it works can be confusing. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of dental inclusions with your private health policy and how it can assist you pay for the proper dental care you need.

What is dental health?

⦁ Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.
⦁ Flossing at least once a day to remove food particles from between your teeth.
⦁ Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
⦁ Limiting your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks to prevent tooth decay.
⦁ Don’t use tobacco products, which can cause tooth staining and gum disease.
⦁ Consider using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
⦁ Wearing a mouthguard if you play sports to protect your teeth from injury.
⦁ Keeping your gums healthy by maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, and managing any chronic health conditions that can affect your gums.
⦁ Good nutrition is important for your overall oral health, eat a balanced diet with enough of key nutrients.

What is dental health cover?

First, it’s important to understand that dental health insurance is not the same as regular private health insurance. Dental health insurance, also known as dental coverage or dental benefits, is a separate extras policy that is designed specifically to cover the cost of dental care and makes up part of your private health insurance.

There are two main types of dental cover available: private dental insurance and public dental cover. Private dental insurance is purchased by individuals or families as part of your private health insurance policy, while public dental insurance is offered through state-funded programs and is available to certain groups of people or low-income individuals. Typically, Medicare does not cover most dental procedures such as teeth cleaning, dentures, wisdom teeth extraction, filling, or other routine procedures.

Your private health insurance extras cover typically includes a range of services which can be categorised into four main groups:

⦁ General Dental – oral exams, scale and clean, simple fillings, mouthguards, x-rays, and tooth extractions.
⦁ Major Dental – Tooth extraction, wisdom teeth removal, complex fillings, crowns and bridges, veneers, and dentures.
⦁ Endodontic – root canal therapy and periodontics which includes treatment of gum tissue diseases, infection, and inflammation.
⦁ Orthodontic – correction of teeth and jaws into the right position with braces or Invisalign.

How to Claim?

Claiming is simple, if your dentist is set up digitally and offer HICAPS – you can claim on the spot. Before booking any dental work and making a claim make sure that:

⦁ You’ve served the relevant waiting periods on your private health insurance policy to be able to claim.
⦁ The dental provider is a recognised provider with the health fund and has a provider number.
⦁ You have an itemised invoice that shows the provider ID and item number for the service/s, the charges and how much you’ve paid, and is dated within the last two years.

In conclusion, dental health insurance can help alleviate the financial burden of paying for dental care, but it’s important to understand how it works and what is covered. By comparing different plans and understanding the terms and limits of your private health insurance policy, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and ensure that you are getting the coverage you need. It’s also important to keep in mind that a good oral hygiene, healthy diet, and regular visits to a dentist can help prevent costly dental procedures in the future.

Find the best health coverage today

To compare private health cover that will work for you or speak to one of our friendly team members on 1300 861 413 or hello@health.compare

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Other private health funds in Australia

In Australia, there are more than 30 insurers offering a wide variety of distinct private health products.#These health funds can be broadly categorised into three main types: for-profit, mutual and not-for-profit.

For-profit health funds

are owned by shareholders and are operated to make a profit. They are required to pay dividends to their shareholders and must also meet the same regulatory requirements as other types of health funds.

Not-for-profit health funds

are not operated to make a profit and instead, any surplus is used to improve the services and benefits provided to members. They are also subject to the same regulatory requirements as other types of health funds.

Mutual health funds

are owned and controlled by their members. They are operated on a not-for-profit basis, with any surplus being used to improve the services and benefits provided to members. Mutual health funds must also comply with the same regulatory requirements as other types of health funds.

In addition to these three types of health funds, there are also the government-funded health optionsincluding Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) which provide coverage for certain medical expenses.

Top 10 Private Health insurance companies in Australia by Market Share*

Insurer NameMarket Share
Medibank27.3%
Bupa24.8%
HCF11.9%
nib9.3%
HBF7.3%
Australian Unity2.5%
Teachers Health2.5%
GMHBA2.1%
Defence Health0.4%
CBHS0.1%

When choosing a private health fund, it’s important to consider the type of coverage you need, and the benefits offered by each fund. It’s also important to compare the costs and benefits of different funds, as the cost of premiums can vary significantly between policies.

In conclusion, with over 30 registered health funds in Australia+ as of January 2023, each health fund offers a different set of coverage options and benefits, so it’s important to compare the costs and benefits of different funds to find one that best suits your needs.

To explore your health fund options visit us to compare health insurance in Australia

speak to one of our friendly team members on 1300 861 413 hello@health.compare

References:

#ACCC

* Ombudsman.gov.au

+ PrivateHealth.gov.au

What would the waiting period look like?

To compare health insurance funds and work out which cover is best for you

Speak to one of our friendly team members about your health insurance policies today – Telephone 1300 861 413 or email us at hello@healthmarketing

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