5 Best Single-Person Health Insurance in Australia
When it comes to choosing health insurance, singles in Australia have plenty of options, but finding the right plan can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from understanding what singles health insurance is and how it works to tips on selecting the right level of coverage based on your needs and lifestyle. You will learn:
- ✅ What is single health insurance?
- ✅ 5 best singles health insurance in Australia
- ✅ Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s dive in and explore the best health insurance choices for singles so you can confidently protect your health and financial well-being.
What is Single-Person Health Insurance?
Single health insurance in Australia is private coverage for individuals not on a couple or family policy. It offers flexibility and affordability, covering hospital treatment and out-of-hospital services. Hospital cover pays for private patient treatment, including surgery, accommodation, and some ambulance services, while extra cover includes services like dental, optical, and physiotherapy.
This insurance helps with faster access to treatments and reduces out-of-pocket costs for regular care. It’s also beneficial for avoiding the Medicare Levy Surcharge and reducing Lifetime Health Cover loading for those who take out hospital cover before age 31.
With customizable options, it provides financial protection and peace of mind.
📌 Read more about the Best Couples Health Insurance
How to Choose the Right Health Insurance for Singles
Choosing the right health insurance as a single person in Australia involves evaluating your health needs, budget, and lifestyle. If you’re young and healthy, basic or medium hospital coverage may be sufficient, while those with specific health concerns may need more comprehensive coverage. Consider combining hospital and extra cover for regular services like dental or physiotherapy to balance affordability and protection.
Lifestyle factors, such as being active or traveling frequently, may also influence your choice, with extras for physio or ambulance cover being beneficial. Additionally, avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge and Lifetime Health Cover loading by choosing a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Best Private Health Insurance for Single Person
| 🔍 Provider | 🏅 Singles Cover | 📌 Plan |
| Australian Unity | ✅ Yes | Top Choice (Silver Plus) plan |
| NIB | ✅ Yes | Basic Care Hospital Plus |
| HCF | ✅ Yes | Hospital Silver Plus plan |
| Medibank | ✅ Yes | Bronze Plus Progress Hospital |
| Bupa | ✅ Yes | Bronze Plus Simple Hospital |
Australian Unity Top Choice (Silver Plus)
The Top Choice (Silver Plus) plan from Australian Unity is a solid option for singles, offering a balance of comprehensive coverage and affordability. Here are some of the benefits and features that make it suitable:
Extensive Hospital Coverage
This plan includes coverage for a wide range of hospital treatments, such as back, neck, and spine surgery, joint replacements; cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy), and heart and vascular system procedures.
These services cater to singles who may require access to specialized medical care without long waiting times in the public system. The coverage applies to both private and public hospitals, providing flexibility in choice of care.
Accident Cover
The plan provides an enhanced benefit for hospital treatment following an accident. If a treatment needed after an accident falls under a category listed as restricted or not covered, it will still be treated as covered, offering extra peace of mind for unexpected emergencies.
Gap Cover Participation
Australian Unity’s Gap Cover scheme helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses by covering the difference between the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee and what a doctor charges for in-hospital services, provided the doctor participates in the scheme. This is beneficial for singles who want to avoid unexpected medical costs.
Ambulance Cover
The plan includes unlimited emergency ambulance transportation, ensuring that singles have access to emergency services without additional costs.
Extras Coverage for Everyday Health Needs
The plan covers various extras, including dental, optical, and physical therapies (e.g., physiotherapy, chiropractic care), making it ideal for singles who want to maintain their overall health and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for these services.
Overall, the Top Choice (Silver Plus) plan provides comprehensive hospital and extra coverage, suitable for singles seeking robust health insurance with additional benefits for unexpected health events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly premium for the Australian Unity health insurance plans?
The monthly premium for Australian Unity health insurance plans depends on the coverage you choose. Several factors, including the type of coverage, location, and special circumstances, will influence the exact premium amount.
What is the Waiting Period for the Australian Unity health insurance plan benefits?
Depending on the particular service chosen, Australian Unity’s waiting periods for health insurance differ. The following are the usual wait times:
- Two months for basic treatments, twelve months for maternity or pre-existing conditions, and twelve months for major dental and optical procedures.
- There may be no waiting period for some benefits, particularly those related to accidents.
For specific details, consult your policy.
How to Claim Australian Unity Health Insurance Benefits
Go into your account and simply file your claims online. Use the Australian Unity Health app to upload receipts and make claims with ease. Visit a Unity location in Australia, or just mail your claims.
Our Overall Assessment
The Australian Unity Top Choice (Silver Plus) plan offers a well-rounded health insurance option for singles, balancing comprehensive hospital and extra coverage with affordability. With benefits like extensive hospital treatment options, enhanced accident cover, and gap cover participation, it ensures both peace of mind and financial protection for unexpected health events.
NIB Basic Care Hospital Plus Plan
The NIB Basic Care Hospital Plus plan offers several benefits that make it a practical choice for singles seeking affordable health insurance coverage in Australia. Here are the features that make it a good option.
Coverage for Essential Hospital Services
The plan includes coverage for common medical treatments such as joint reconstructions, gynaecology, gastrointestinal endoscopy, and tonsil removal. These services address common health needs without requiring high premiums for more specialized treatments. It ensures that essential hospital services are available, making it suitable for singles who want basic hospital coverage at an affordable cost.
Accidental Injury Benefit
This feature provides immediate coverage for hospital treatment needed due to an accident, with just a 1-day waiting period. If an accidental injury occurs, the policyholder will be covered at the highest level of hospital benefits for up to 90 days. This is especially beneficial for singles who may participate in active or adventurous lifestyles.
Emergency Ambulance Cover
The plan covers emergency ambulance transport, an important inclusion in most states where ambulance services are not covered by the public healthcare system. This sees that members can access emergency transport when needed without incurring significant out-of-pocket costs.
Flexible Excess Options
With excess choices of $500 or $750, singles can opt for a higher excess to reduce their monthly premiums. This flexibility allows individuals to choose a payment structure that suits their budget.
Support for Mental Health Needs
While hospital psychiatric services are covered on a restricted basis (Minimum Benefits Payable), members can waive the 2-month waiting period when upgrading to higher cover levels, providing accessible support for mental health treatment when needed.
The NIB Basic Care Hospital Plus plan is an accessible and budget-friendly option for singles seeking coverage for essential hospital services, with added benefits for accidental injuries and emergency care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly premium for the NIB health insurance plans?
The selected plan and coverage level affect the NIB health insurance policies’ weekly rates. The average weekly cost of basic hospital coverage is between AUD 25 and AUD 40. More comprehensive policies, which usually cost AUD 40 to 60 per week or more, cover hospital and supplemental care.
You can create a customised quote using the NIB quotation tool that is ideal for your particular circumstance.
What is the Waiting Period for the NIB health insurance plan benefits?
Depending on the kind of coverage you select, there are different waiting periods for NIB health insurance benefits.
Waiting periods are typically one year for pre-existing conditions or maternity, two months for additional treatments like physiotherapy and dental care, and instant coverage for unintentional accidents.
Checking with your insurance company for precise information is crucial because waiting periods can differ based on your particular plan and provider.
How to Claim NIB Health Insurance Benefits
Go into your account and electronically submit your claims to begin receiving your benefits under the NIB Health Insurance. You can process claims and submit receipts using the NIB mobile app. Some medical professionals can file claims with the NIB directly on your behalf.
Our Overall Assessment
The NIB Basic Care Hospital Plus plan is an affordable and practical choice for singles, offering essential hospital coverage at a budget-friendly cost. With benefits like coverage for common treatments, accidental injury benefits, emergency ambulance cover, and flexible excess options, it provides solid protection while accommodating various lifestyles and budgets.
HCF Hospital Silver Plus Plan
The HCF Hospital Silver Plus plan offers a comprehensive range of benefits that make it a suitable choice for singles in Australia seeking solid health coverage. Here’s what makes it an appealing option:
Extensive Hospital Coverage
The plan covers a wide range of treatments, including heart and vascular procedures, back, neck, and spine treatments, joint reconstructions, chemotherapy for cancer, and lung and chest conditions. This breadth of coverage ensures that singles have access to important medical treatments when needed, reducing potential out-of-pocket costs.
Flexible Excess Options
With excess choices of $250, $500, or $750, members can select a higher excess to lower their premiums or a lower excess to minimize upfront hospital costs. This flexibility allows singles to adjust the plan to suit their budget and healthcare preferences.
Accident Safeguard
The plan provides top-level hospital benefits for 90 days if a member is hospitalized due to an accident. This feature means that singles have immediate access to comprehensive care without worrying about restricted services, adding a layer of security for those with active lifestyles.
Emergency Ambulance Cover
The inclusion of emergency ambulance transportation provides essential peace of mind in emergencies, as these services can incur significant costs if not covered by private health insurance.
Additional Perks
The plan offers unique benefits like travel and accommodation coverage for hospital stays if travel exceeds a 200 km round trip and premium waivers for eligible members experiencing involuntary unemployment. These features make the plan more than just hospital cover by addressing practical needs.
Overall, HCF Hospital Silver Plus is a well-rounded plan that caters to singles who want extensive hospital coverage without paying for services they don’t need, like pregnancy and birth. It balances affordability, flexibility, and comprehensive coverage for a range of medical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly premium for the HCF health insurance plans?
The amount of coverage, age, and location are some of the variables that affect the monthly premiums for HCF’s health insurance policies.
Basic hospital coverage usually starts at around AUD 100 to 150 per month. On the other hand, more comprehensive plans that include extra services like physiotherapy and dental care might cost anywhere from AUD 150 to AUD 250 per month or even more.
What is the Waiting Period for the HCF health insurance plan benefits?
Depending on the kind of coverage, waiting periods for HCF health insurance benefits vary in length.
Waiting periods typically last 12 months for significant dental or orthodontic procedures, 12 months for maternity care or treatments related to pre-existing conditions, and 2 months for ancillary services like dentistry and physiotherapy.
There is usually no waiting period for care when receiving hospital treatment for accidents because access is provided immediately. Waiting times might vary, so be sure to check your policy for specifics.
How to Claim HCF Health Insurance Benefits
Just sign into your HCF member account and file your claim online to get your HCF Health Insurance benefits.
- To submit your claim and easily upload your receipts, use the My Membership app.
- Some medical professionals can file claims for you directly through HCF.
To make your claim, simply visit an HCF location or mail your claim form.
Our Overall Assessment
The HCF Hospital Silver Plus plan offers comprehensive hospital coverage and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for singles seeking solid health insurance. With extensive treatment coverage, flexible excess options, accident safeguard, emergency ambulance cover, and additional perks, it provides valuable protection and peace of mind for a variety of health needs.
The Medibank Bronze Plus Progress Hospital and Essential Extras 75
The Medibank Bronze Plus Progress Hospital and Essential Extras 75 plans offer a balanced combination of hospital and extra cover, making them a good choice for singles in Australia. Here are the central benefits.
Comprehensive Hospital Coverage
The Bronze Plus Progress Hospital plan covers a wide range of treatments, such as gastrointestinal endoscopy, joint reconstructions, gynaecology, and cancer treatments (chemotherapy and radiotherapy).
It also includes coverage for conditions like back, neck, and spine issues, male reproductive health, and ear, nose, and throat procedures. This makes it a versatile option for singles who want essential hospital coverage without paying for higher-cost services like joint replacements or weight loss surgery.
Accidental Injury Benefit
With this plan, treatments for injuries sustained in accidents are covered at the highest level, even if they normally fall under restricted or excluded services. This feature provides peace of mind for singles who lead active lifestyles, ensuring access to comprehensive care following an accident.
Ambulance Cover
The inclusion of emergency ambulance services is a crucial benefit, as ambulance costs can be high. The plan sees that singles are covered for emergency transport in case of urgent medical needs.
Flexible Extras Coverage
The Essential Extras 75 plan covers services like dental (with 100% back on up to two annual dental check-ups), optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture. These extras help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for everyday health needs, providing value for singles who want preventive and routine care.
Members’ Choice Network
Medibank’s Members’ Choice providers offer capped pricing, allowing members to get better value from their extras cover. This network ensures reduced costs and better rebates for covered services.
Together, the Bronze Plus Progress Hospital and Essential Extras 75 plans provide a well-rounded health insurance package that suits singles seeking affordable, flexible coverage for both hospital and everyday health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly premium for the Medibank health insurance plans?
The location, age, and level of coverage of the insured are among the variables that affect the monthly cost of Medibank health insurance plans.
With monthly fees beginning at less than AUD 100, the most basic protection plans are incredibly affordable. More comprehensive plans that cover hospital treatments and other coverage, however, may cost up to AUD 150 to 200 a month.
Use the quote feature on the Medibank website to get a customised quote.
What is the Waiting Period for the Medibank health insurance plan benefits?
The specific coverage type selected determines how long waiting periods are for Medibank health insurance benefits. Typical waiting periods include twelve months for maternity services or pre-existing conditions, two months for routine treatments like dentistry and physical therapy, and quick coverage for hospitalisations due to accidents.
Verifying the specifics of your plan is essential because waiting periods can change depending on the coverage you select.
How to Claim Medibank Health Insurance Benefits
Use one of the following options to get the benefits of your Medibank health insurance:
- You can file your claim fast by using the My Medibank app or by entering your Medibank account online.
- You can use your Medibank card to make your claim when you visit a Medibank branch.
- Contact Medibank’s customer service if you require assistance.
Numerous healthcare providers can manage your claims automatically.
Our Overall Assessment
The Medibank Bronze Plus Progress Hospital and Essential Extras 75 plans offer a balanced, affordable option for singles seeking comprehensive hospital and extra coverage. With benefits like extensive hospital treatment, accidental injury coverage, ambulance cover, and flexible extras for routine care, this plan provides great value and flexibility for those wanting essential health coverage.
The Bupa Bronze Plus Simple Hospital and Extras Saver Plans
The Bupa Bronze Plus Simple Hospital and Extras Saver plans provide a well-rounded and affordable health insurance option for singles in Australia. Here’s what makes these plans suitable:
Comprehensive Hospital Coverage
The Bronze Plus Simple Hospital plan covers essential services such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, digestive system treatments, bone, joint, and muscle procedures, and gynecology. It also includes rehabilitation and psychiatric services on a restricted basis. This makes it a practical choice for singles who need coverage for common health issues without paying for higher-cost services like heart surgery or joint replacements.
Accident Coverage
For treatments resulting from an accident, the plan will cover restricted or excluded services as if they are included, offering top-level coverage for up to 90 days. This is particularly beneficial for singles who may be more prone to accidents due to an active lifestyle.
Ambulance Cover
The hospital plan provides unlimited emergency ambulance coverage so that singles have access to emergency transport services without incurring significant costs.
Affordable Extras Cover
The Extras Saver plan offers coverage for general dental, providing 50% back on services such as exams, cleanings, and fillings, up to an annual limit. This helps reduce the cost of routine dental care, which is essential for maintaining oral health.
Together, these plans offer an affordable way to secure essential health coverage for singles, providing a combination of hospital and dental benefits while keeping premiums affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly premium for the Bupa health insurance plans?
Bupa provides a selection of health insurance plans made to accommodate various financial needs. Plans with weekly costs ranging from $2.79 to $21.19 cover hospital care and other costs.
Exclusive medical items cost between $17.98 and $21.19 each week, while general items cost between $2.79 and $5.62. The weekly cost of packaged goods ranges from $24.35 to $39.09.
What is the Waiting Period for the Bupa health insurance plan benefits?
Depending on the coverage selected, Bupa health insurance waiting periods differ. Benefits often include hospital stays, general treatments, and a two-month waiting period.
There is often a 12-month waiting period for prenatal treatment and medications for pre-existing diseases.
These extra services can last anywhere from two to twelve months. To determine the precise waiting periods related to your coverage, you must understand the technical aspects of your policy.
How to Claim Bupa Health Insurance Benefits
You have the following choices for getting your Bupa Health Insurance benefits:
- Use your Bupa account, which you can use online or on your smartphone, to swiftly and easily file your claim.
- When you visit a Bupa Health Insurance office, bring your medical bills. Delivering the filled-out claim form and invoices to Bupa is essential so they can process it.
Bupa claim filings can be handled by a large number of healthcare providers.
Our Overall Assessment
The Bupa Bronze Plus Simple Hospital and Extras Saver plans offer an affordable and practical health insurance option for singles in Australia. With essential hospital coverage, accident benefits, unlimited ambulance coverage, and affordable extras for dental care, these plans provide comprehensive support at a reasonable cost.
In Conclusion
Single-person health insurance in Australia offers flexible and affordable coverage for individuals not on a couple or family policy. With options for hospital and extra cover, it provides access to faster treatments and helps reduce out-of-pocket costs for essential services like dental and physiotherapy. When choosing the right plan, consider your health needs, budget, and lifestyle, ensuring that the coverage meets both your medical requirements and financial goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a single’s health insurance typically cover?
Single health insurance generally covers hospital treatments, such as surgeries, hospital accommodation, and medical services during admission, as well as extras like dental, optical, and physiotherapy, depending on the type of coverage chosen.
How do I choose between hospital cover, extra cover, or a combined policy?
This depends on your health needs and budget. Hospital cover is suitable if you want protection for major treatments and surgeries, while extra cover helps manage everyday health costs like dental and optical. A combined policy offers both but may come at a higher premium.
Can I avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge by getting single health insurance?
Yes, having an eligible singles health insurance policy can exempt you from the Medicare Levy Surcharge if you earn above a certain income threshold. It’s a good option to consider for singles who want to avoid this extra tax.
What happens if I need treatment for something not covered by my policy?
If your policy doesn’t cover a specific treatment, you may need to pay for it out of pocket. It’s important to understand what’s included, restricted, or excluded in your policy to avoid unexpected expenses.
Do I have to serve waiting periods if I switch to another health insurer?
If you switch health insurers within 2 months, you typically won’t have to re-serve waiting periods for services already covered under your previous policy. However, new or upgraded services may still be subject to waiting periods.
