HBF Health Insurance Review
HBF Health Insurance offers 6 Health Insurance plans, including Basic Hospital Plus, Bronze Hospital Plus, and Silver Hospital Plus. The plans start from AUD 14.96 per week and go up to $2,685.16 per year.
Additionally, HBF Health Insurance provides Accident Cover with immediate protection after joining and includes unlimited Urgent Ambulance Cover for emergency services throughout Australia.
| 🔎 Date Established | 1941 |
| 🏦 Headquartered | Perth, Western Australia |
| ↪️ Registration Number | ABN: 11 126 884 786 |
| 👤 Average Number of Members | 1.2 million+ |
| 👥 Number of Employees | 1,000 – 5,000 |
| 🛡️ APRA-Regulated | It operates as a health insurer in Australia |
| 📉 The most recent Market Cap reported | Not applicable (Not-for-profit) |
| 📈 Average Customer Rating | 4.1 stars |
| 📊 Average Number of Reviews | Approximately 6,500 reviews |
| 💹 Market Share | 7.82% |
| 6️⃣ Number of Plans Offered | 6 health insurance plans |
| 🌟 Sponsorships | HBF Run for a Reason, partnerships with local charities and health initiatives |
| 📲 Is a Mobile App Offered | Via the MyHBF app |
| 🖱️ Medical Claims Portal | HBF App |
| ⏰ Customer Support Operating Hours | Monday to Friday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Saturday 8 am – 12 pm (AWST) |
| ⭐ Information Hub and Blog | Includes an Information Hub and resources on mental health, proactive health, etc. |
| 💊 Chronic Illness Benefits | Includes benefits for conditions like diabetes and chronic diseases under various health management programs |
| 🩺 Screening and Prevention Offered | Includes fully covered health checks and flu vaccinations |
| 🍼 Maternity Benefit | Coverage varies based on the plan chosen; for instance, some plans like Silver Hospital Plus exclude pregnancy and birth benefits |
| 👩⚕️ Health Insurance Contribution Range (AUD) | From $14.96 per week to $2,685.16 per year |
| ➡️ Average Waiting Period | Varies between 7 days (urgent ambulance cover) to 12 months (for certain treatments) |
| 🌎 Is International Medical Cover Offered | Offers suspension options for international travel with reactivation upon return |
| ✈️ International Travel Benefit | None |
HBF Health Insurance Plan Overview
| 🔎 Plan | 💴 Premium Range AUD (Min to Max, Weekly to Yearly) | 🪫 Exclusions | ❤️ Ideal For | ↪️ Gap Cover | 📌 Rebate Percentage | ⏰ Average Waiting Period | 🔑 Key Features |
| 🥇 Basic Hospital Plus | $14.96/week to $749.09/year | Cataracts, joint replacements, weight loss | Individuals looking for low-cost cover | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 months for general treatments, 12 months for pre-existing conditions | Private room, accident cover, unlimited urgent ambulance, flexible excess options |
| 🥈 Basic Hospital Plus Elevate | $16.96/week to $848.61/year | Pregnancy, weight loss surgery, assisted reproductive services | Individuals and families needing basic services with added accident coverage | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 months for general treatments, 12 months for pre-existing conditions | Private room, no excess for children, accident cover, full ambulance cover by road |
| 🥉 Bronze Hospital Plus | $19.03/week to $953.55/year | Complex surgeries (e.g., heart), pregnancy, assisted reproductive services | Budget-conscious singles, couples, and families | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 months for general treatments, 12 months for pre-existing conditions | Private room, full ambulance cover by road, and covers essential hospital treatments |
| 🏅 Silver Hospital | $23.86/week to $1,194.20/year | Weight loss surgery, assisted reproductive services | Those needing mid-level hospital cover | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 months for general treatments, 12 months for pre-existing conditions | Private room, comprehensive coverage including heart and vascular procedures, joint reconstructions |
| 🎖️ Silver Hospital Plus | $33.66/week to $1,684.55/year | Pregnancy, assisted reproductive services, weight loss surgery | Individuals, couples, and families with higher health needs | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 months for general treatments, 12 months for pre-existing conditions | Private room, full ambulance cover, flexible excess options, no excess for kids |
| 🎖️ Gold Hospital Elevate | $53.67/week to $2,685.16/year | Cosmetic procedures, outpatient services | Families, couples planning for family growth | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 months for general treatments, 12 months for pre-existing conditions | Comprehensive cover, private room, full ambulance cover, no excess for children, travel and accommodation benefits for hospital admissions over 200 km away |
HBF Health Insurance Plans – Features and Benefits
HBF offers hospital plans for different health and financial needs. Each plan provides members coverage for essential treatments while offering flexibility in premiums, excess choices, and specific benefits for different demographic groups.
The plans include Basic Hospital Plus, Basic Hospital Plus Elevate, Bronze Hospital Plus, Silver Hospital, Silver Hospital Plus, and Gold Hospital Elevate, each differing in the range of covered treatments, exclusions, and excess options. Here, we dive into the specific features of each plan.
Basic Hospital Plus
Basic Hospital Plus is an entry-level option, providing essential coverage with affordability in mind. The plan covers a range of basic treatments in private hospitals and includes accident cover from the day after joining.
Key Features for Different Groups
Singles
Access to essential services like dental surgeries with low premiums.
Couples
Benefits include accident cover and private room accommodations.
Families
No excess for kids, easing the financial burden of children’s hospital needs.
Single Parents
Coverage of essential treatments like bone, joint, and muscle care, with ambulance support.
Basic Hospital Plus offers a cost-effective solution for individuals and families, providing essential coverage and peace of mind without breaking the budget.
Basic Hospital Plus Elevate
Basic Hospital Plus Elevate provides entry-level coverage for frequently required medical treatments.
The plan emphasises affordability with options to avoid public hospital waiting times and gain access to essential services in private hospitals. It includes accident coverage from the day after joining, giving immediate protection in emergencies.
Key Features for Different Groups
Singles
- Immediate accident coverage from the day after joining.
- Private room access during hospital stays.
- Affordable premiums with flexible excess options.
Couples
- Dual coverage for critical procedures like gastrointestinal surgeries.
- Member Plus hospital access ensures comfort and affordability.
Families
- No excess for kids, reducing hospital costs for dependent children.
- Comprehensive treatment options for common child-related health needs.
Single Parents
- Coverage for child-centric treatments like tonsils, adenoids, and bone care.
- Emergency and urgent road ambulance coverage is included.
Basic Hospital Plus Elevate offers affordable, essential coverage with quick access to private hospital care and immediate accident protection, making it an ideal choice for individuals and families seeking both value and peace of mind.
Bronze Hospital Plus
Bronze Hospital Plus is a budget-friendly plan covering essential hospital services for various medical needs. It aims to offer substantial savings through flexible excess options and focuses on commonly required treatments. This plan also provides families with benefits like no excess for kids.
Key Features for Different Groups
Singles
- Flexible excess choices to manage premiums efficiently.
- Private room accommodations for more comfortable hospital stays.
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Couples
- Affordable coverage for key categories like lung and chest treatments.
- Options to choose excess levels based on healthcare needs.
Families
- No excess for kids, covering treatments like ENT surgeries for children.
- Comprehensive ambulance coverage provides security during emergencies.
Single Parents
- Key inclusions like dental surgery and emergency ambulance coverage.
- Flexible excess options to manage costs according to affordability.
Bronze Hospital Plus is an affordable plan that provides essential hospital coverage, offering flexibility with excess options and substantial savings, making it a great choice for singles, couples, and families looking for value and comprehensive care.
Silver Hospital
Silver Hospital provides mid-tier hospital coverage with broader inclusions. It covers essential treatments like joint reconstructions and psychiatric services, offering flexible excess choices and comprehensive in-hospital care.
Key Features for Different Groups
Singles
Comprehensive protection for cardiac and joint treatments and private rooms.
Couples
Access to crucial services like heart and vascular treatments with flexible excess options.
Families
No excess for children, covering a range of pediatric services.
Single Parents
Key inclusions like emergency ambulance cover and financial relief with zero excess for children.
Silver Hospital offers mid-tier hospital coverage with a wide range of inclusions, providing essential treatments and flexible excess options for individuals and families seeking comprehensive care and peace of mind.
Silver Hospital Plus
Silver Hospital Plus offers higher private hospital coverage, focusing on a broad range of common treatments.
It provides flexibility through varied excess options to adjust premium levels. This plan emphasises comprehensive services such as heart and vascular treatments and orthopedic care.
Key Features for Different Groups
Singles
- Comprehensive coverage for major treatments and cancer care.
- A wide selection of included services for health and well-being.
Couples
- Joint reconstructions and heart treatments provide essential protection.
- Accommodation benefits for private rooms in Member Plus hospitals.
Families
- No excess for kids and extensive pediatric service coverage.
- Broad coverage categories ensure that both parents and children are protected.
Single Parents
- Coverage for essential child-related treatments like ENT procedures.
- No excess for kids reduces financial strain.
Silver Hospital Plus offers enhanced private hospital coverage with a broad range of treatments, providing flexible excess options and comprehensive care for individuals and families seeking extensive health protection.
Gold Hospital Elevate
Gold Hospital Elevate is the top-tier hospital plan that covers all services required at a Gold level, such as pregnancy, birth, and psychiatric services.
This plan is designed for those seeking the most comprehensive protection and benefits like private room accommodations and unlimited ambulance cover.
Key Features for Different Groups
Singles
- Comprehensive protection with broad inclusions for major treatments.
- Unlimited urgent ambulance coverage for immediate care.
Couples
- All-inclusive coverage, suitable for couples planning for maternity needs.
- Flexibility to choose excess based on financial preferences.
Families
- No excess for kids, ensuring savings for hospital visits.
- Access to complex surgeries and major procedures for all family members.
Single Parents
- Financial relief with zero excess charges for children.
- Comprehensive coverage for psychiatric services and child-centric health needs.
Gold Hospital Elevate offers top-tier coverage with extensive benefits, including pregnancy, birth, and psychiatric services, providing comprehensive protection and peace of mind for individuals and families seeking the highest level of care.
HBF Health Insurance Extras Cover
HBF Health offers a variety of extra cover plans to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for basic coverage or a more comprehensive plan, you can find an option that fits your lifestyle and health requirements.
Basic Extras
From $4.22/week. Covers general dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and more. Key benefits: full cover for glasses (up to $160) and 100% back on one scale and clean annually.
Flex 50
From $7.61/week. Get 50%+ back on services like dental, physio, dietetics, and chiropractic, with an $800 combined limit and $200 for optical.
Flex 60
From $10.55/week. 60%+ back on popular services, $1,000 combined limit, and $220 for optical.
Complete 60
From $12.55/week. Comprehensive extras cover, including orthodontics, 60%+ back on claims, and a wide service range.
Top 70
From $21.41/week. High-limit extras cover with 70%+ back on services and no annual limit on preventive dental.
No matter which plan you choose, GU Health provides flexible and affordable extras cover to support your health and well-being.
User Reviews
🥇 Smooth Transfer and Convenient Service.
After turning 25, I switched from my parents’ plan and joined HBF because of its smooth transfer and nearby branches. The personnel was efficient and detailed; therefore, the procedure was faster than expected. The annual fee was considerable for a healthy person like me, but the peace of mind was worth it. – Steve
🥈 Great Customer Service Experience.
Excellent experience as an HBF member for over a year. The staff is always polite and patient when I contact or visit, and eager to answer my queries. I always get solid service from them.
HBF Health Insurance vs Qantas Health Insurance vs HCF Health Insurance – A Comparison
| 🔎 Category | 🥇 HBF Health Insurance | 🥈 Qantas Health Insurance | 🥉 HCF Health Insurance |
| 📉 Years in Operation | Since 1941 | Since 2016 (as Qantas Assure) | Since 1932 |
| 📈 Average Numbers of Members | 1.2 million+ | Not specified; under NIB umbrella, 9.6% market share | 1.8 million |
| 📊 APRA Regulation | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 💹 Number of Employees | 1,000 – 5,000 | 26,000+ (including partnerships and subsidiaries under NIB) | Over 1,000 |
| 💱 Market Share | 7.82% | Operates under Nib Holdings (with a 9.6% market share), has a 52.5% market share (more or less) | Approximately 11.5% of the private health market |
| 📑 Market Coverage | Nationwide | Nationwide | Nationwide with extensive branch network |
| ⭐ Customer Rating | 4.1 stars | Average rating of 4.11/5 | Consistently high ratings with awards for satisfaction |
| 🔟 Number of Reviews | Approximately 6,500 | Thousands | Over 5,000 reviews across various platforms |
| 📲 Mobile App | MyHBF app | Qantas Wellbeing App | My Membership App |
| 💴 Premium Range (AUD) | $14.96 per week to $2,685.16 per year | $19.82 per week to $3,033.19 annually, | Varies significantly based on plan and state |
| 🌎 International Travel Benefit | Limited suspension options available | Limited coverage for medical emergencies while abroad | Additional policies for comprehensive travel coverage |
| 📌 Market Capitalisation | Not applicable (not-for-profit) | Under Nib Holdings (Nib reported solid market position) | Not-for-profit, no shareholders |
| 📍 Top Unique Features | Reinvestment into member benefits, flexible plans | Qantas Points Earning, Accidental Injury Cover | No-Gap dental and physio, home healthcare services, award-winning value |
Advantages of HBF Health Insurance
HBF, as a not-for-profit insurer, reinvests surplus earnings into member benefits, ensuring value without raising costs. Family and single-parent policies remove excess fees for children, reducing financial stress during hospital stays.
Members have the flexibility to combine hospital and extra coverage to create personalized plans, rather than choosing from fixed packages.
Preventive dental care is fully covered at HBF’s Member Plus network, including routine cleanings at no extra cost. Specialized programs like Chemo@home and chronic condition management through telehealth provide tailored care that’s easily accessible.
All plans include unlimited urgent ambulance coverage by road, offering emergency transport without additional charges.
The MyHBF portal gives members control over their health insurance, allowing easy tracking of claims, accessing benefit quotes, and managing documents.
HBF Health Insurance Gap Cover
HBF Health Insurance offers Access Gap Cover (AGC), a billing arrangement designed to help members reduce or eliminate medical gaps for hospital treatments.
A gap occurs when there is a difference between the amount a medical provider charges and the benefits covered by HBF and Medicare. AGC aims to alleviate these gaps by working with healthcare providers to set agreed-upon fees, ensuring members are not left with unexpected bills.
While HBF’s AGC scheme is comprehensive, members must verify if their healthcare providers participate in the program to maximise its benefits.
Key Considerations of Gap Cover
Participation of Providers
Doctors participate in Access Gap Cover (AGC) on a case-by-case basis, so members must confirm if their specialists are part of the AGC scheme before treatment.
Services Covered
AGC covers a wide range of medical services, including general surgery, obstetric services, and anaesthetic services. However, some exclusions, such as certain pathology and radiology services, may apply.
Cost Transparency
Members should request an Informed Financial Consent (IFC) from their doctors, including a detailed cost estimate. This ensures that members are aware of potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Maximum Gap Charges
Doctors can charge a Known Gap amount, capped at $800 per episode for certain services, like obstetrics. Providers are limited to a maximum Known Gap of $500 for other services.
Services Not Covered under Access Gap Cover (AGC)
- Outpatient Treatments: Treatments outside hospital settings, which Medicare might not cover.
- Pathology and Radiology Services: Pathology tests and radiological scans are not covered under AGC.
- Non-Medicare Eligible Services: Services that don’t have a corresponding Medicare item number.
- Cosmetic and Elective Procedures: These are Procedures that are cosmetic or elective and not medically necessary.
HBF Health Insurance App Features
The HBF Health Insurance App allows members to manage their health coverage, submit claims, and access key services from anywhere. Designed with ease of use, the app is a digital portal, empowering members to stay on top of their health insurance needs through simple, intuitive features.
| 🔎 Feature | 🅰️ Description | 🅱️ Benefit to Users |
| 📉 Digital Member Card | Allows members to store and use a digital version of their HBF membership card | Easy, contactless claiming using smartphones at participating providers |
| 📈 Real-Time Claim Submission | Members can submit claims directly through the app, including uploading digital copies of receipts | Faster claim processing and quicker access to benefits |
| 📊 Extras and Limits Tracker | Users can check extra limits and monitor usage within their current plan | Helps members avoid exceeding limits and track remaining benefits |
| 💹 Document Download | Access and download policy documents like benefit statements and policy certificates directly | Provides a secure and quick way to manage essential insurance paperwork |
| 💱 Personal Details Management | Update personal and payment details and view claims history conveniently from the app | Ensures that account information stays up-to-date with minimal hassle |
How to apply for Health Insurance with HBF Health Insurance
To apply for health insurance through HBF, follow these simple steps:
Prepare Documents
Gather necessary documents like identification, proof of residence, and details of any existing health coverage (if switching from another insurer). Also, have your banking information ready for direct debit payments.
Compare Plans
Visit the HBF website or use the online tool to compare hospital and extra cover options. Choose the plan that best fits your needs and budget.
Create an Account
If you’re new to HBF, create a MyHBF account on their website. If you’re already a member, just log in to proceed.
Fill Out the Application
Complete the online application with your details, chosen cover, and payment preferences. Review your plan’s hospital and extra coverage before moving forward.
Review and Submit
Double-check all the information, confirm your cover details, and read the terms and conditions. Once everything is correct, submit your application.
You’ll receive an email confirming your membership and cover details.
How to apply for Gap Cover with HBF Health Insurance
To apply for Gap Cover, follow these steps:
Check Eligibility
Ensure your existing HBF policy includes hospital cover and that you’ve completed any waiting periods for hospital services.
Confirm Doctor Participation
Doctors choose to participate in Access Gap Cover (AGC) on a case-by-case basis. Before any procedures, ask your doctor, specialist, surgeon, and anaesthetist if they will participate in AGC.
Create an Account
If you don’t already have one, create a MyHBF account on the HBF website. This will be your main portal for managing your cover.
Request Informed Financial Consent (IFC)
Ask your doctor for an IFC document, which outlines medical fees, what HBF and Medicare will cover, and any gaps you’re responsible for.
Once eligibility and participation are confirmed, complete the required paperwork either through your doctor or your MyHBF account.
How to Submit a Claim with HBF Health Insurance
To apply for Gap Cover, follow these steps:
Check Eligibility
Ensure your current HBF policy includes hospital cover and that any waiting periods for hospital services have been served.
Confirm Doctor Participation
Doctors choose to participate in Access Gap Cover (AGC) on a case-by-case basis. Before your procedure, ask your doctor, specialist, surgeon, and anaesthetist if they will participate in AGC.
Create an Account
If you don’t have one, create a MyHBF account on the HBF website to manage your cover.
Request Informed Financial Consent (IFC)
Ask your doctor for an IFC, which explains the medical fees, what HBF and Medicare will cover, and any gaps you’re responsible for.
After confirming eligibility and participation, complete the required paperwork either through your doctor or your MyHBF account.
How to Downgrade My Plan with HBF Health Insurance
To downgrade your plan with HBF Health Insurance, follow these steps:
Review Your Current Coverage
Log in to your MyHBF account on the website or app to view your current plan details. Take note of the services and benefits that matter most to you.
Compare Available Plans
Use the cover comparison tool on the HBF website to explore other plans that better suit your needs or budget. This will help you find the right downgraded plan.
Consult an HBF Representative
If you’re unsure about which plan to choose, contact an HBF representative via phone or online chat for personalized guidance. They can help you understand potential savings and coverage changes.
Confirm the Downgrade Request
After selecting your plan, submit your downgrade request through the MyHBF portal or with customer service. Make sure to receive confirmation of the updated premium and coverage.
Some changes might affect waiting periods for new services or modify existing benefits. HBF will notify you of any updates, so be sure to review them carefully to avoid coverage gaps.
How do I add a Beneficiary to HBF Health Insurance?
To add a child or adult dependent to your HBF Health Insurance, follow these steps:
Log In to Your MyHBF Account
Use your member number and password to access your account on the HBF website. If you haven’t registered yet, create an account using the details provided when you joined HBF.
Navigate to “Manage My Policy”
Once logged in, go to the “Manage My Policy” section, where you can view and update your coverage. Select the option to manage people on your policy.
Select “Add or Remove People”
Choose this option and provide the necessary details for the dependent you want to add, such as their full name, relationship to you, and date of birth.
Review Premium Changes
Adding a new dependent, like a spouse or child, may adjust your premium. The system will show you any changes, so review them carefully. Contact HBF if you have any questions about these adjustments.
After reviewing the information for accuracy, submit the changes. You’ll receive an email confirmation, and you can also check your updates in your MyHBF account.
How to Submit a Compliment or Complaint with HBF Health Insurance
Members can submit compliments or complaints using the online feedback form available on HBF’s website. This form is easy to navigate and allows members to detail their experiences directly.
- Call the HBF member service team at 133 423. This hotline is available during business hours for members who prefer to provide feedback over the phone. A representative will log your compliment or complaint and address it accordingly.
- Members can visit an HBF branch to speak directly with a customer service representative. This option provides a more personalised way to discuss concerns or express appreciation.
Feedback can be posted to the HBF Member Relations & Advocacy Manager. When using this option, members should include detailed information about their feedback for efficient handling.
How to Switch my Health Insurance to HBF Health Insurance
If you want to switch to HBF Health Insurance from another provider, follow these steps:
Explore Available Plans
Visit the HBF website or use the HBF app to compare health insurance plans. Use the plan comparison tool to select the right cover based on your health needs and budget.
Request a Transfer Certificate
Contact your current health insurer to request a Transfer Certificate. This document details your current health coverage and is necessary to avoid re-serving waiting periods. Most insurers provide this certificate within 14 days.
Inform HBF of Your Switch
Call HBF customer support or complete the online application form to let them know you intend to switch. Provide your Transfer Certificate and current insurer details. HBF will handle the rest of the transition with your existing insurer.
Confirm Your New Policy
Once the transition is complete, log in to your MyHBF account to review your new policy. Ensure all coverage details and waiting period transfers are correct.
HBF offers a 30-day cooling-off period for new members. If you’re not satisfied with your policy, you can cancel it for a full refund, provided you haven’t made any claims during that time.
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HBF Health Insurance Corporate Responsibility
HBF Health Insurance demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility through focused initiatives prioritising health improvement, community engagement, and ethical governance. As a not-for-profit member-owned organisation, HBF channels its efforts into making a tangible impact on Australian communities.
HBF Health Insurance CSR Activities and Initiatives
HBF runs various programs to improve the health of Australians by focusing on areas that can make the biggest impact. The HBF Run for a Reason encourages over 30,000 participants to raise funds for important health causes in Western Australia.
Through its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), HBF works towards a more united Australia. HBF Angels organizes fundraising events to support local charities, while Workplace Giving and Volunteering programs allow employees to donate to charities and match their contributions dollar for dollar.
HBF also supports over 900 employees in volunteering their time for not-for-profit causes. The organization follows a strong governance framework to ensure accountability and transparency in all its activities.
HBF Health Insurance Regulation
Private health insurance in Australia is regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). HBF Health Insurance is a member of APRA, with the ABN 11 126 884 786. The main regulatory framework is the Private Health Insurance Act 2007, with APRA and ACCC overseeing key areas.
APRA ensures financial stability by regularly assessing risks and testing insurers’ financial health. The ACCC monitors pricing and premium changes to ensure fairness and transparency. Both APRA and ACCC work to protect members’ interests, ensuring market integrity and safeguarding against misconduct and financial risks.
HBF Health Insurance Awards and Recognition
HBF Health Insurance is recognized for its dedication to members and operational excellence, with several prestigious awards highlighting its trust, innovation, and social impact. One of the standout accolades is being named Australia’s Most Trusted Health Insurer at the 2023 Roy Morgan Trusted Brand Awards. This recognition reflects HBF’s commitment to delivering dependable health coverage and outstanding member services.
Customer Support and Contact Details
HBF Health Insurance offers excellent customer support to help members with any information or assistance they need.
They provide a helpful online Help Centre, along with guides and resources to assist in managing health insurance coverage. There are several ways to get in touch with HBF for support:
General Enquiries and Member Support:
- Phone: 133 423
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, Saturday 8:00 am – 12:00 pm (AWST)
Online Self-Service:
- MyHBF Portal: Manage cover, check claims, and update personal details.
- HBF Mobile App: Access the MyHBF portal features on mobile.
In-Person Support:
- Visit HBF Branch Locations for help with cover options. Find branch locations on the HBF website.
Emergency Assistance:
- For ambulance cover questions, call 133 423 for urgent assistance.
HBF Health Insurance is dedicated to providing accessible and responsive support to ensure all members have the assistance they need when managing their health coverage.
HBF Health Insurance Rebates and Discounts
HBF Health Insurance provides members with rebates, discounts, and important tax-related information.
Rebates
The Australian Government Rebate on Private Health Insurance is a scheme that helps Australians afford private health insurance. This rebate applies to hospital, extra, and urgent ambulance cover.
The rebate amount varies based on the member’s age and taxable income. An online calculator is available to help members estimate their rebate amount. The Australian Government updates the rebate thresholds annually on April 1st.
Discounts
HBF health members have access to a range of discounts and offers. These include discounts on gym memberships, shopping, entertainment, and health services like pharmacy, optical, and dental discounts.
Specific offers include discounts on the following:
- Non-prescription sunglasses and contact lenses at Bailey Nelson.
- 10% off Complete Home Filtration systems.
- Savings on movie tickets at select cinemas.
Discounts on gym memberships at Fitness First and Goodlife Health Clubs.
HBF Health Insurance Additional Health Services and Products
HBF Health Insurance offers a range of additional services to support your health beyond basic coverage.
They provide programs like COACH for chronic conditions, Chemo@home for at-home chemotherapy, and access to health education through partners such as Diabetes Australia and Asthma WA. Members can also use home sleep studies and pharmacy support for sleep apnea.
HBF offers the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet Program, an online weight loss course, and the Osteoarthritis Healthy Weight for Life program to manage symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis. Their Mind Matters Program supports mental health with a personalized recovery plan.
Additionally, HBF covers pharmacy health checks, smoking cessation support, and flu vaccinations for eligible members.
HBF Health Insurance Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| HBF operates as a not-for-profit health fund, focusing on giving back to members rather than shareholders | Limited national network presence, mainly concentrated in Western Australia |
| Some plans provide private room access in Member Plus hospitals | Cataract surgeries and weight loss treatments are either restricted or excluded from lower-tier plans |
| Members receive 100% back on select extras like annual flu vaccinations, urgent ambulance cover, and preventative dental services | Ambulance coverage is primarily limited to road transport |
| Flexibility to mix and match hospital and extra products | Waiting periods apply to pre-existing conditions, major dental treatments, and high-value services |
| No excess charged for children on family and single-parent policies | The plans often have restrictions on treatments like joint replacements and psychiatric services |
| Members can manage their cover and claims efficiently through the user-friendly MyHBF portal and mobile app | Some limitations on telehealth benefits |
| The Gold and higher-tier hospital plans pregnancy and birth, essential for expanding families | Costs for top-tier plans can be higher compared to competitors |
| Member Plus providers offer additional benefits, reducing out-of-pocket costs for common services | Pre-existing conditions require a waiting period of up to 12 months |
Our Verdict on HBF Health Insurance
Our review of HBF Health Insurance highlights both its flexibility and certain limitations. As one of Australia’s prominent not-for-profit health funds, HBF’s plans cater to different needs, offering customised options for singles, couples, families, and single parents.
The emphasis on private hospital access, unlimited urgent ambulance cover, and broad extra benefits reflects HBF’s member-focused approach.
Services like no excess for kids and comprehensive dental coverage provide practical financial relief to policyholders. However, limitations in coverage for specific treatments such as weight loss surgery or pregnancy in certain tiers may be restrictive for some members.
Selecting in-network hospitals to minimise out-of-pocket costs could require strategic planning. Overall, HBF’s structure seems well-suited for those prioritising flexibility and member benefits. In contrast, its constraints might prompt others to consider alternative options based on their health requirements and financial planning strategies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is covered by HBF Hospital Insurance?
HBF’s hospital insurance covers fees for in-patient services, including surgeries, hospital lodging, and emergency treatments, depending on the individual plan chosen.
What does HBF’s member portal (MyHBF) provide?
The MyHBF site helps members manage their plans, check coverage information, examine claims history, and access important documents such as benefit statements.
Does HBF provide coverage for international visitors?
Yes, HBF offers Overseas Visitors Health Cover to persons temporarily staying in Australia.
How does HBF help chronic conditions?
HBF has focused support programs to manage chronic diseases, including telehealth coaching and specialised at-home care, to qualifying members.
