Extras cover in private health insurance
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What is extras cover health Insurance?
Extras-only health insurance, or ancillary cover, helps pay for treatments and services from medical and allied health professionals not typically subsidised through Medicare. These ‘extras’ can include dental, optical, physiotherapy, and podiatry. As these services aren’t typically covered by Medicare, this type of insurance can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
You’ll usually be able to start claiming money back once any waiting periods are met, though most policies will only allow you to claim back a certain percentage for each service, subject to annual cover limits.
What are the different levels of extras health insurance?
Most insurance providers offer three levels of extras cover: basic, medium, and top-level:
Basic extras cover
Basic extras cover offers more limited coverage, but it’s typically the most affordable option. Common services covered by a basic extras policy include:
- General dental
- Physiotherapy
- Optical (varies by provider)
It’s good to be aware that basic extras policies often come with combined group limits and lower reimbursement rates—meaning you’ll pay more out-of-pocket for services. Because of this, premiums tend to be lower than those for higher-level extras policies.
Medium extras cover
Medium extras cover strikes a balance between cost and coverage. These policies are ideal for those looking for good value, with coverage for a broader range of services than basic policies. Medium extras policies include:
- General dental
- Major dental
- Endodontics
You may also receive coverage for:
- Orthodontics
- Optical
- Non-PBS pharmaceuticals
- Physiotherapy
- Chiropractic/Osteopathy
- Podiatry
- Psychology
- Hearing aids
Medium extras policies typically offer higher annual limits than basic policies, although they often won’t match the more comprehensive coverage of top-tier plans. Medium extras policies provide an affordable option for those seeking more coverage without paying the premium of a high-level plan.
Top extras cover
Top extras cover offers the most extensive range of healthcare services, making it generally the most expensive option when looking for cover. With the highest limits and largest rebate percentages, these comprehensive policies help cover a wide array of treatments, ultimately reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. A top-tier policy typically includes, but is not limited to, coverage for:
- General dental
- Major dental
- Endodontics
- Orthodontics
- Optical
- Non-PBS pharmaceuticals
- Physiotherapy
- Podiatry
- Psychology
- Acupuncture
While top-level extras cover comes at a higher price, it provides the broadest protection and is suitable for people seeking comprehensive health benefits with higher annual limits and extensive coverage. Specific coverage varies depending on your provider, so always check what each policy includes before deciding.
How much does extras cover cost?
The cost of your extras-only health insurance will depend on your level of coverage, location and whether the policy is for a family, couple or single.
Canstar’s database shows monthly premiums from $9 to $350. Use our comparison table at the top of the page to compare extras cover from our Online Partners and each policies’ approximate monthly premiums.
Looking for a more personalised quote and pricing? Click the ‘Get a personalised quote now’ button at the top of the page.
How to find the best extras cover
Finding the best extras cover for you will ultimately depend on your healthcare needs and financial circumstances. Canstar’s Health Insurance Awards is a good place to start. We research and rate hundreds of health insurance policies each year, recognising providers who offer outstanding value to consumers.
Already have extras cover but unsure whether your policy is giving you good value for money? Request an annual claims statement from your provider. This will show the total benefits received in that financial year. To check whether you’re getting good value, look at your total benefits and your out-of-pocket costs against the cost of your premiums.
If you’re thinking about switching or want to take out a new extras policy, compare extras cover from our Online Partners using the comparison table above. For a more personalised health insurance quote, click the ‘Get a personalised quote now’ button at the top of this page.
Frequently asked questions about Extras cover in private health insurance
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About our finance experts
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Joshua Sale, GM, Research
As Canstar’s Group Manager, Research, Ratings & Product Data, Josh Sale is responsible for the methodology and delivery of Canstar’s Health Insurance Star Ratings and Awards. With tertiary qualifications in economics and finance, Josh has worked behind the scenes for the last five years to develop Star Ratings and Awards that help connect consumers with the right product for them.
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Important information
For those that love the detail
This advice is general and has not taken into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider whether this advice is right for you.
