There's more to private health insurance than treating illness and accidents. You probably already know that extras cover can help you with the costs to maintain your smile at the dentist and ease your stress with remedial massage. But did you know that extras cover can be used for many services that boost your health from your head (with counselling and psychology) to your toes (with podiatry) – and many things in between?
It can be hard to know which extras cover to opt for without paying for things you don’t need. If you’re looking for the best value on your health insurance, that’s where we can help. This guide will walk you through how to change your Medibank extras cover, and how to get the most out of it.
Are health insurance extras worth it?
It depends on your health needs. Extras cover supports you for accessing services that can help you better manage your health, like optical, dental, physiotherapy and so much more.
Extras cover can provide you with value when it matches your lifestyle and health requirements. For example, if you wear glasses and visit the dentist regularly, you could save money with extras cover each year. A typical dental check-up and clean might cost $162–$309 without extras cover, reports Choice, while the cost of a new pair of glasses can vary wildly, up to several hundred dollars. When you take into account the cost of extras in a year, you're likely to save.
You can upgrade Medibank cover when your needs change, or downgrade Medibank cover if you need to reduce your costs. Waiting periods for any new or upgraded services or benefits will apply.
Extras cover isn't just about everyday healthcare needs, though. It also provides protection for unexpected situations that can arise at any time, such as:
Emergency dental work
Physiotherapy after an injury
Mental health support services like counselling and psychology
Learn more: Is extras cover worth it?
Do I need hospital cover or just extras cover?
Before you decide to change Medibank cover, it's important to understand the difference between hospital and extras cover.
Knowing the differences between these two types of cover can help you decide whether you need one or both of them.
Learn more: What is the difference between Hospital cover and Extras cover?
If you’re young and fit, you may only need extras cover. If you’re older, have complex health needs or want to avoid large, unexpected hospital bills, you should consider hospital cover as well. There are four tiers of hospital cover – Basic, Bronze, Silver and Gold – so you can find the right cost and tier for you.
Can I remove extras from my health insurance?
Yes, you can change your Medibank cover to remove extras and have hospital-only cover. At Medibank, we understand that you’ll have different needs at different stages of your life, so you’re not locked in.
If you want extras but, on your terms, check out Medibank’s My Choice Extras. With it, you can customise your extras cover, choosing from four options so you only pay for what you need. You can also change cover as your needs evolve.
Can I pause my health insurance?
Yes, you may be able to temporarily suspend your health insurance if you’re going overseas or if you’re experiencing financial hardship.
You can also upgrade or downgrade your Medibank cover if your needs change. Understanding how different cover combinations work can help you figure out what will work best for you.
Can I change my Medibank extras cover?
Yes, you can change your Medibank extras cover. To change your extras cover, call Medibank on 132 331 and request a cover review.
During a cover review, the Medibank team will assess your current healthcare use and needs, and explain how you can change your cover and the available options.
For example, if you're over 50, the Medibank team might recommend adding joint replacements to your hospital cover, alongside extras cover that includes generous physiotherapy benefits.
How to make the most of your extras
Before you decide to change your cover, consider these tips to maximise your current benefits:
Ready to explore your options?
We’re here to help you get the best value out of your health cover. Contact Medibank on 132 331 to discuss the options that suit your lifestyle and healthcare needs or to change your cover.
Things you should know
* Eligible members on Medibank extras (excluding Healthy Living Extras and Gold Ultra Health) can claim a maximum of two 100% back dental check-ups per member, per year at a Members’ Choice Advantage provider (including bitewing x-rays where clinically required). For members on eligible extras, the first two check-ups do not count towards your annual limit. Members with Healthy Living Extras can get 100% back on one dental check-up each year at a Members’ Choice Advantage provider (including up to two bitewing x-rays, where clinically required) or at a Members’ Choice dentist (excluding x-rays). Members with Gold Ultra Health can get 100% back on up to three dental check-ups at a Members’ Choice or Members’ Choice Advantage provider. Members’ Choice and Members’ Choice Advantage providers are not available in all areas. Two month waiting period applies. Some products may have other dental benefits, check your cover summary for details.