Best Extras Only Health Insurance in Australia

When it comes to managing healthcare expenses, extra health insurance can be a valuable tool for covering routine treatments that aren’t subsidized by Medicare.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 4 best extras-only health insurance in Australia. You will learn:

✅ What is the Extras Only cover?
✅ 4 best Extras Only health insurance in Australia
✅ Frequently asked questions

We’ve carefully researched a range of Extras Only health insurance options to provide a comprehensive overview of what these policies offer.

Extras-only health insurance is a smart choice for those who want to access these routine services without the higher premiums of hospital coverage. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or looking to switch plans, this guide will give you the insights you need to make an informed decision.

What is an Extras Only Cover?

Extras-only health insurance in Australia provides coverage for everyday health services not covered by Medicare, like dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and more. Unlike hospital cover, it’s ideal for individuals seeking routine care without the need for in-patient hospital treatments.

This insurance is perfect for those who regularly need out-of-hospital services, such as dental visits or physiotherapy, and prefer a more affordable plan. Extras-only cover typically offers flexibility, allowing you to choose a plan that fits your healthcare needs and lifestyle, while keeping premiums lower than combined hospital and extras plans.

It’s especially popular among younger Australians or active individuals who prioritize preventive care. Plus, some plans may offer quicker access to treatments or higher limits, making it an affordable way to enhance overall wellness alongside Medicare.

📌 You might like Vision health care insurance

How to Choose the Right Extras Cover

Selecting the right extra health cover can make a big difference in your healthcare experience and out-of-pocket costs. Since Extras cover is designed to support your non-hospital health needs, choosing wisely helps you maximize the benefits and avoid paying for services you won’t use. Here are a few steps to help you choose the right plan.

Start by assessing which services you’re likely to use most. Common extras include dental, optical, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care, so think about your routine healthcare needs.

For instance, if you regularly visit the dentist or need new glasses annually, look for plans with strong dental and optical benefits. On the other hand, if you rarely use these services but are interested in preventive therapies like acupuncture or naturopathy, consider plans that cover a wider range of allied health options.

Next, examine the benefit limits for each service, as these dictate how much your insurer will contribute toward each type of care. Higher limits may mean paying a slightly higher premium, but it can be worth it if you frequently use certain services. Also, pay attention to whether benefit limits reset annually or if there are lifetime caps on certain services.

It’s essential to check waiting periods as well, especially if you want to claim benefits right away. Many insurers impose waiting periods for specific services, but some may offer shorter waiting periods or even waive them as part of promotional offers.

Lastly, compare costs across providers. Premiums vary widely based on the level of cover and included benefits, so using a comparison tool can help you find a good value plan. Remember, the right Extras cover will complement your lifestyle, minimize healthcare costs, and provide access to services that support your overall well-being.

📌 Read more about Dental health care insurance

Bupa

These three Bupa Extras Only plans offer a range of coverage options to meet varying health needs and budgets.

Starter Extras

Designed as an entry-level plan, Starter Extras provides essential coverage for general dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, and remedial massage.

Members receive up to 60% back at Bupa’s Members First providers, with yearly limits like $500 combined for general dental, physio, and chiropractic services. Optical services have a $150 yearly limit, while remedial massage is capped at $100.

This plan is ideal for those seeking basic health maintenance without coverage for major dental, mental health, or specialty therapies.

Super Extras

A mid-tier plan, Super Extras expands coverage beyond basic services. In addition to general and major dental, it includes podiatry, dietary, mental health (including psychology), speech therapy, and acupuncture.

Members can claim up to $900 for combined general and major dental, with separate limits for podiatry ($300) and dietary therapy ($300). This plan also provides for mental health services, allowing up to $300 for consultations like psychology and counseling.

Super Extras is suitable for individuals who need a wider array of services and higher benefit limits.

Wellness Extras

The Wellness Extras plan offers comprehensive coverage focused on wellness. It includes general, major, and orthodontic dental, with $750 annually for general and major dental and an orthodontic benefit of $600 per year, capped at a $1200 lifetime limit.

It also covers physio, chiropractic, acupuncture, and non-PBS pharmaceuticals, each with annual limits.

Mental health services are also included, with $300 for psychological support and online cognitive behavioral therapy. This plan is ideal for those who prioritize wellness-focused treatments and preventive care with broader coverage.

Each plan offers increasing benefits and limits, allowing members to choose based on their health needs and desired scope of extra coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monthly premium for the Bupa health insurance plans?

Bupa provides a range of health insurance packages that are customized to different financial demands. Consider plans that offer hospital care and additional fees, with rates ranging from $2.79 to $21.19 per week.

Extras only are priced weekly between $17.98 and $21.19, while others range from $2.79 to $5.62. Package product prices for the week vary from $24.35 to $39.09.

What Is the Waiting Period for the Bupa Health Insurance Plan benefits?

The waiting periods for Bupa health insurance vary according to the coverage chosen. Benefits often require a two-month waiting period, which includes coverage for general treatments and hospitalization.

Maternity care and medicines for pre-existing conditions frequently have a 12-month waiting period.

The duration of such added services may vary, ranging from two to twelve months. Understanding the technical details of your insurance is crucial for determining the specific waiting periods associated with your coverage.

How to Claim for Bupa Health Insurance Benefits

The following are the options for claiming your Bupa Health Insurance benefits.

Submit your claim quickly and conveniently using your Bupa account, which can be accessed online or via the smartphone.
Bring your medical receipts to a Bupa Health Insurance office. Make sure you deliver the completed claim form and receipts to Bupa for processing.

Many providers can manage Bupa claim submissions for you.

Our Overall Assessment

Bupa offers three flexible Extras Only plans. Starter Extras is a budget-friendly option for basic services like dental and physio. Super Extras provides more comprehensive coverage, including major dental and mental health services. Wellness Extras offers extensive coverage for wellness-focused treatments, including orthodontics and acupuncture. Each plan allows you to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs.

Medibank

These three Medibank Extras plans each offer distinct levels of coverage to meet various healthcare needs.

Healthy Living Extras

This plan is focused on preventive care, offering benefits like 100% coverage for one annual dental check-up at a Members’ Choice provider and unlimited emergency ambulance cover.

Members can also claim one flu vaccination per year, with a $40 limit. Other services, such as remedial massage and optical, are also included, with annual limits. It’s suitable for those prioritizing preventive care at a modest cost.

Healthy Start Extras

This entry-level plan provides essential benefits for general dental, optical, and physio, covering up to 60% of costs for Members’ Choice providers. It also includes ambulance cover and basic mental health support, offering consultations for psychology and counseling.

Annual limits for services like dental are capped at $500 per member, and the plan includes coverage for select alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and exercise physiology. This plan is ideal for budget-conscious individuals who want essential health coverage.

Top Extras 60

A more comprehensive option, Top Extras 60 covers a wide array of services with higher annual limits. For example, it includes a combined dental limit of $800, major dental with a limit of $500, and an initial orthodontic allowance with a 1,200 USD lifetime cap.

Additional benefits cover speech therapy, eye therapy, podiatry, and even health appliances. This plan is suited to those seeking extensive extras coverage with a higher percentage back on services.

Each plan’s coverage varies based on service needs, making them versatile options for different lifestyle and health priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monthly premium for the Medibank health insurance plans?

The monthly premium for Medibank health insurance plans is determined by a variety of factors, including the quantity of coverage, the insured’s age, and the insured’s location.

The most basic security plans, which start at around AUD 100 per month, are extremely reasonable. More comprehensive plans, which include additional coverage and hospital procedures, may cost anywhere from AUD 150 to AUD 200 per month, or even more.

What Is the Waiting Period for the Medibank health insurance plan benefits?

The waiting period for Medibank health insurance benefits varies according to the type of coverage obtained.

The wait periods for different treatments are generally consistent. General treatments like dental care and physiotherapy frequently entail two-month wait times. In contrast, maternity coverage and pre-existing conditions necessitate a twelve-month waiting period.

Accidental hospitalization is immediately covered.

Check the specifics of your plan, as waiting periods can vary depending on the coverage you select.

How to Claim for Medibank Health Insurance Benefits

With these simple steps, you may simply access your Medibank health insurance benefits.

Simply log in to your Medibank account online or via the My Medibank app for a seamless experience.
Visit a Medibank location and present your claim with your card.
For help, call Medibank’s customer care.

Many healthcare providers provide a streamlined claims processing experience, which improves your convenience.

Our Overall Assessment

Medibank offers three flexible Extra plans. Healthy Living Extras focuses on preventive care with services like dental check-ups and unlimited ambulance coverage. Healthy Start Extras provides essential coverage for dental, optical, and physio at an affordable rate. Top Extras 60 offers more comprehensive coverage with higher limits for dental, orthodontics, and additional therapies, making it ideal for those seeking broader extras coverage.

Australian Unity

These three Extras Only plans from Australian Unity increase benefits, enabling members to choose coverage suited to their healthcare requirements and affordability.

Easy Extras

This entry-level plan focuses on essential treatments, providing 50% coverage for general dental and physical therapies such as physiotherapy and remedial massage, with yearly limits of $400 for dental and $300 for physiotherapy.

It also includes unlimited emergency ambulance cover and preventative health programs, such as doctor’s health checks, quit-smoking programs, and weight loss support. Easy Extras is suited for individuals seeking basic health support without extensive services.

Freedom Extras

A mid-range option, Freedom Extras offers more comprehensive dental coverage, including root canals, crowns, and orthodontics with a lifetime orthodontic benefit of $2,400.

Members can claim $250 annually for optical and have access to various physical therapies, including physiotherapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture, each with a combined limit of $500 per person.

This plan also includes psychology services and non-PBS pharmaceuticals, with a yearly cap of $400. Freedom Extras appeals to those needing moderate cover across multiple services.

Top Extras

The most extensive option, Top Extras covers a wide range of services with higher benefit limits. Dental coverage includes up to $1,000 annually for major dental and a lifetime orthodontic benefit of $3,200.

Optical benefits extend to $300 annually, while physical therapies like physiotherapy and chiropractic have a combined $600 limit. Top Extras also include cover for devices and aids, such as hearing aids and asthma pumps, with substantial limits. This plan is ideal for individuals seeking robust support for various health needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monthly premium for the Australian Unity health insurance plans?

The monthly premium for Australian Unity health insurance policies is primarily influenced by the coverage chosen. A variety of factors will influence the precise premium amount, including the type of coverage, geographical area, and personal circumstances.

What Is the Waiting Period for the Australian Unity health insurance plan benefits?

The waiting times for health insurance with Australian Unity vary depending on the coverage selected. Here’s a quick overview of average wait times:

Major dental and optical procedures are covered for 12 months, maternity or pre-existing conditions for 12 months, and critical treatments for only 2 months.
Some benefits, particularly those relating to accidents, may be made available immediately and without delay.

Please refer to your policy for further information.

How to Claim for Australian Unity Health Insurance Benefits

Logging into your Australian Unity account is an easy and efficient way to submit claims online, allowing you to maximize your health insurance benefits.
Using the Australian Unity Health app, you can easily file claims and submit receipts.
Visit an Australian Unity branch or submit your claims by mail.

Our Overall Assessment

Australian Unity offers three plans to suit different needs. Easy Extras provides basic coverage for dental and physio, ideal for those seeking essential care. Freedom Extras offers more comprehensive dental and therapy coverage, along with psychology services. Top Extras delivers extensive coverage with high limits for dental, optical, and physical therapies, perfect for those seeking robust health support.

NIB

Below are the extras-only cover plans from NIB that offer great value across a range of healthcare needs.

Core Extras

The Core Extras plan offers essential coverage for the most common healthcare services at an affordable rate. With 60% back on general dental, major dental, optical, and physiotherapy services, this plan provides good value for individuals looking to maintain their routine health needs without the need for extensive coverage.

General dental is covered up to $600 per year, and major dental services are also included at $600 annually, providing members access to a broad range of dental care.

Optical services, such as prescription glasses, are covered up to $250 per year, while physiotherapy is supported with a $350 annual limit.

This plan is ideal for individuals or couples who want essential, budget-friendly coverage for common healthcare needs, and who may not need coverage for specialized services like orthodontia or extensive alternative therapies.

Core and Wellbeing Extras

The Core and Wellbeing Extras plan is a step up from the Core Extras, adding coverage for additional healthcare services such as chiropractic and osteopathy.

It retains the 60% back structure, but offers a more comprehensive approach with the inclusion of services aimed at overall wellbeing, making it a suitable option for those who prioritize both physical and preventive care.

Alongside the general and major dental coverage of $600 per year, members also receive $250 for optical services, $350 for physiotherapy, and $300 for chiropractic or osteopathy services.

This plan is well-suited for individuals or families who not only want to cover routine health services but also value alternative therapies and want more holistic care options.

Advantage Extras

The Advantage Extras plan is the most comprehensive option, offering 70% back on services and higher annual limits across several categories. General dental coverage is increased to $700 per year, while major dental services are covered up to $1,000 annually.

Orthodontic care is included, with up to $700 per year, making this plan especially valuable for families with children or individuals who need orthodontic treatment.

Optical coverage remains at $250 per year, but the chiropractic/osteopathy limit is set at $300, and physiotherapy, including exercise physiology, is covered up to $500.

This plan is ideal for those seeking extensive coverage, especially for dental and physiotherapy services, and is perfect for families or individuals who expect to make frequent claims and want to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monthly premium for the NIB health insurance plans?

The weekly premiums for NIB health insurance policies vary depending on the plan and amount of coverage. Basic hospital coverage normally ranges from AUD 25 to AUD 40 per week. On the other hand, more comprehensive policies that include both hospital and supplemental care often cost AUD 40 to AUD 60 or more each week.

The NIB quoting tool allows you to build a personalized quote that is ideally tailored to your specific scenario.

What Is the Waiting Period for the NIB health insurance plan benefits?

The waiting periods for NIB health insurance benefits vary depending on the policy you select. Waiting periods typically last two months for additional treatments like dentistry and physiotherapy, one year for maternity or pre-existing conditions, and provide instant coverage for accidental accidents.

Waiting periods can vary based on your plan and provider, so it’s essential to check your policy for exact information.

How to Claim for NIB Health Insurance Benefits

To access your NIB Health Insurance benefits, simply login to your account and submit your claims electronically.
With the NIB mobile app, you can effortlessly upload receipts and submit claims with a few taps.
Some healthcare professionals can file claims directly with NIB on your behalf.

Our Overall Assessment

NIB offers three plans catering to different needs. Core Extras is an affordable option for essential dental, optical, and physiotherapy services. Core and Wellbeing Extras adds chiropractic and osteopathy, ideal for those seeking a more holistic approach. Advantage Extras provides the most comprehensive coverage, with higher limits on dental, orthodontic, and physiotherapy services, making it perfect for families or individuals with frequent health needs.

In Conclusion

Extras-only health insurance in Australia is an excellent choice for those looking to cover routine health services like dental, optical, and physiotherapy without the higher premiums of hospital cover. With flexible plans available, you can select coverage tailored to your healthcare needs and budget, making it ideal for individuals who prefer out-of-hospital care. To choose the right plan, consider the services you use most, benefit limits, waiting periods, and premiums. By carefully comparing options, you can find a plan that supports your health goals and minimizes out-of-pocket costs.

You might also like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Extras Only health insurance?

Extras Only health insurance provides coverage for out-of-hospital services that Medicare typically does not cover. These include treatments like dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and remedial massage. It’s an ideal option for individuals looking to maintain routine health services without needing hospital cover.

How does Extras Only health insurance differ from the combined hospital and extras cover?

Extras Only cover focuses solely on non-hospital services such as dental or physiotherapy, while combined cover includes hospital treatments as well. If you don’t anticipate needing in-hospital treatment but still want coverage for everyday healthcare, Extras cover might be a more affordable option.

What services are typically covered by Extras Only health insurance?

Common services include general and major dental, optical (glasses and contact lenses), physiotherapy, chiropractic, podiatry, and occasionally alternative therapies like acupuncture and remedial massage. Some plans also cover mental health services, dietetics, and non-PBS pharmaceuticals.

Are there waiting periods for claiming Extras Only services?

Yes, waiting periods typically apply to most Extras Only services. For example, general dental or physiotherapy may have a 2-month waiting period, while major dental or orthodontics could have a 12-month waiting period. Be sure to check the specific waiting periods in your plan before signing up.

What factors should I consider when choosing an Extras Only policy?

When choosing an Extras Only policy, consider which services you’re likely to use most frequently, the annual limits for each service, waiting periods, and the percentage you get back on claims. It’s also important to evaluate whether your preferred healthcare providers are covered by the policy or if the insurer has a preferred network.

Table of Contents