Health insurance: Millions of Aussies eligible for $1,300 – but you have to be quick
Australians are being urged to make the most of their health insurance claims or risk missing out on up to $1300 in benefits just days into the New Year.
Major health insurers – including Bupa, Medibank and HBF – will reinstate the extra benefits on January 1, meaning thousands of dollars in unused claims could be lost once policies are renewed.
Additional coverage includes non-hospital costs, such as dental checkups, optical and physiotherapy, which are not covered by Medicare.
On average, Aussies stand to lose $1300 in health insurance benefits from the scheme if a claim is not made before the end of the year.
Major health insurers – including Bupa, Medibank and HBF – will reinstate extra payouts on January 1, meaning thousands of dollars in unused claims could be lost once policies are renewed
Families can save $1,000 on dental care, with most health trusts offering two cleanings and a general check-up every year.
Customers can also get two brand new pairs of glasses with their extras.
Personal finance experts Compare the Club said Aussies should check the coverage of their extras to make sure they aren't paying for what they don't need.
“Use this as an opportunity to arrange last minute glasses, book a cleaning or check-up at the dentist or even a restorative massage before the end of the year,” says a company spokesperson. 7 News.
'Check online what you have and have not used, via the health insurers app or call them.'
While most health insurance funds reinstate their extra cover at the end of the year, others choose to renew the policy during the financial year or when the customer has taken out their extra cover.
Customers can choose from a variety of additional coverage depending on their needs. However, health insurance policies have limitations on how much consumers can claim back.