With the end of the financial year fast approaching on June 30, Members Health is encouraging all Australians with private health insurance to take a moment to review their policies and ensure they are making the most of their available benefits.
Many health insurance policies with extras cover include annual limits for services such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, and more. Unlike hospital cover, extras benefits generally re-set annually and don’t roll over. That means any unused entitlements expire with some health funds re-setting benefit limits on 31 June and others on 31 December.
“At a time when household budgets are under extraordinary pressure, it’s more important than ever for Australians to understand and utilise the full value of their health insurance extras” said Matthew Koce, CEO of Members Health.
Making full use of your extras cover isn’t just about avoiding lost benefits; it’s about proactive healthcare. Regular preventative care, such as dental and optical check-ups, can help identify and address health issues early, potentially saving time, money, and discomfort in the long run. Similarly, allied health services like physiotherapy can aid in recovery and in some instances avoid the need for hospitalisation or surgery.
“Your extras cover is there to support your everyday health and wellbeing needs,” Mr Koce explained.
“Taking advantage of services like a dental check-up, new glasses, or physiotherapy for that lingering ache and pain, can improve your health now and prevent more serious health issues down the track.”
“Members Health funds provide millions of dollars each year to help cover extras services for their members, demonstrating the significant value it provides,” Mr Koce added.
“As we approach the halfway point of the calendar year, we want to remind Australians with health insurance that their extras cover can be incredibly valuable for maintaining good health and wellbeing.”
Members Health advises Australians households with extras cover to:
- Check your policy: Understand annual limits and remaining balances for each of your extras services. This information is usually available through your health fund’s website or app.
- Book appointments: If you have unused benefits, now is the ideal time to schedule appointments with your preferred healthcare providers.
- Contact your fund: If unsure about your entitlements or eligible services, please contact your health fund directly for advice.
Members Health funds are run by members for members. As not for profit and member owned mutuals, they don’t have to generate profits for shareholders or overseas investors. That means they can give more back to you in healthcare benefits than would otherwise be the case.
A list of all the Members Health funds can be found at www.membershealth.com.au/funds
Members Health is the peak industry body for an alliance of 24 health funds that are not-for-profit or part of a member-owned group, regional or community based. They all share the common ethic of putting their members’ health before profit. Our funds represent the interests of more than 5.4 million Australians.
Media Contact
brenton.baldwin@membershealth.com.au
0409 517 176