Hunter Health Insurance (HHI) Review
Hunter Health Insurance (HHI) is a not-for-profit health insurer based in Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia. The fund is contracted with over 90% of private hospitals and day surgeries across Australia, ensuring extensive coverage for its members.
HHI emphasises community engagement and personalised customer service. HHI is a member of Members Health, an alliance of not-for-profit and mutual health funds.
| 📌 Date Established | 1952 |
| 📍 Headquartered | Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia |
| 🔟 Registration Number | ABN 63 598 010 203 |
| 🫶 The average number of members | 5,000+ |
| 👤 Number of Employees | 10 - 50 |
| 🛡️ APRA-Regulated | ✅Yes |
| 📉 The most recent Market Cap reported | Not-for-profit |
| 📈 Average Customer Rating | 4.3/5 (based on limited reviews) |
| 📊 Average Number of Reviews | 20+ |
| 💹 Market Share | <0.3% |
| 💱 Number of plans offered | 6 Hospital-Only, 5 Extras |
| ⭐ Sponsorships | Little Wings |
| 📲 Is a Mobile App offered | ✅Yes |
| 🖱️ Medical Claims Portal | ✅Yes |
| ⏰ Customer Support Operating Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm AEST |
| 📑 Information Hub and Blog | ✅Yes |
| 🗃️ Chronic Illness Benefits | Chronic disease management programs available |
| ⚙️ Screening and Prevention Offered | Includes cancer support and preventive health measures |
| 🍼 Maternity Benefit | Covered under Silver Plus Pregnancy plans |
| 💴 Health Insurance Premium Range (AUD) | $32.86–$61.59 weekly, depending on plan |
| ⌛ Average Waiting Period | Ranges from 7 days to 12 months |
| 🌎 Is International Medical Cover Offered | None |
| 💛 International Travel Benefit | None |
Hunter Health Insurance Plan Overview
| 🔎 Plan | 💴 Premium Range AUD | 🪫 Exclusions | ❤️ Ideal For | ↪️ Gap Cover | 📌 Rebate Percentage | ⏰ Average Waiting Period | ⭐ Key Features |
| 🥇 Basic Hospital | $32.86/week to $1,710/year | Private hospital stays, cardiac treatments, advanced surgeries | Young adults; affordable public hospital access | ✅Yes | Based on income/age tier | 7 days to 12 months | Basic public hospital treatments. No private hospital access |
| 🥈 Silver Plus Saver | $36.42/week to $1,893/year | Pregnancy and birth-related services, cataracts, major cardiac services | All mid-tier hospital benefits at a moderate cost | ✅Yes | Based on income/age tier | 2 to 12 months | Sleep studies, joint reconstructions, diabetes management |
| 🥉 Bronze Plus | $33.28/week to $1,730/year | Advanced surgeries like cardiac procedures, some complex treatments | Individuals/families: Affordable hospital cover with targeted benefits | ✅Yes | Based on income/age tier | 2 to 12 months | Gynecology, podiatric, and dental surgeries |
| 🏅 Bronze Plus Packaged | $43.12/week to $2,242/year | Pregnancy and advanced non-emergency treatments | Families or individuals; combined hospital and extras | ✅Yes | Based on income/age tier | 2 to 12 months | Hospital coverage with extras like dental and optical benefits |
| 🎖️ Silver Plus Pregnancy | $52.54/week to $2,732/year | Cataracts, major non-maternity related conditions | Expectant parents planning or managing pregnancy | ✅Yes | Based on income/age tier | 12 months for pregnancy-related services | Pregnancy and maternity care, newborn hospital services. |
| 🥇 Silver Plus | $61.59/week to $3,201/year | None listed; focuses on high-complexity procedures | All; comprehensive cover for advanced care | ✅Yes | Based on income/age tier | 2 to 12 months | Cataracts, hearing devices, diabetes care. |
Hunter Health Insurance Plans – Features and Benefits
Hunter Health has something for everyone, and below, we dive into the specific details of each Hunter Health Insurance plan, highlighting inclusions, exclusions, and relevant considerations to aid members in choosing a suitable plan.
Basic Hospital
This entry-level plan covers essential treatments in public hospitals, making it suitable for Australians who require basic health insurance. The plan provides members access to public healthcare while excluding private hospital services or high-cost medical procedures.
| 📉 Weekly Premium | Starting at $32.86 for a single adult (<30, NSW, income <$97,000) |
| 📈 Cover | Public hospital treatments only |
| 📊 Inclusions | Basic treatments, choice of care in public hospitals |
| 💹 Exclusions | No cover for private hospitals, cardiac treatments, or advanced surgeries |
| ⭐ Key Considerations | No excess for eligible members, but limited to public healthcare settings |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Low-cost option for public hospital cover | Restricted to public hospital care |
| Covers essential treatments without excess | No cover for private hospital services |
| Accessible for younger individuals with low-income | Excludes advanced procedures |
| Simple and budget-friendly policy | Limited coverage for complex medical needs |
| Meets government health coverage requirements | Out-of-pocket costs may apply for non-covered services |
Silver Plus Saver
The Silver Plus Saver plan balances affordable premiums with access to a few hospital treatments. It includes options for joint reconstructions, diabetes management, and sleep studies but excludes pregnancy and birth-related services.
| 📉 Weekly Premium | Starting at $36.42 for a single adult (<30, NSW, income <$97,000) |
| 📈 Cover | Private hospital treatments with a $500 excess |
| 📊 Inclusions | Gastrointestinal endoscopy, breast surgery, etc. |
| 💹 Exclusions | Pregnancy and birth services, cataracts, major cardiac treatments |
| ⭐ Key Considerations | Affordable premium with access to private healthcare facilities |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Affordable private hospital access | $500 excess for hospital admissions |
| Covers essential treatments like joint reconstruction | No pregnancy or major cardiac treatment cover |
| Suitable for individuals seeking mid-level care | Excludes cataracts and high-complexity services |
| Clear inclusions and exclusions | Limited benefits for chronic conditions |
| Includes diabetes and sleep management programs | Not ideal for members planning a family |
Bronze Plus
This plan offers a higher level of private hospital cover, giving members access to gynaecology, skin procedures, and joint reconstructions. It excludes advanced treatments like cardiac surgeries but includes common procedures families and individuals need.
| 📉 Weekly Premium | Starting at $33.28 for a single adult (<30, NSW, income <$97,000) |
| 📈 Cover | Private hospital access for mid-tier treatments |
| 📊 Inclusions | Dental surgery, podiatric surgery, gynaecology, etc. |
| 💹 Exclusions | Advanced or complex medical treatments |
| ⭐ Key Considerations | Affordable private hospital cover for general medical needs |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Covers routine procedures like gynecology | No cover for advanced or major surgeries |
| Affordable premiums for private hospital care | May require gap payments for some treatments |
| Includes dental and podiatric surgery options | Limited benefits for chronic or complex care |
| Tailored for general medical needs | Excludes heart and vascular treatments |
| Good entry-level plan for individuals and families | Not suitable for members seeking comprehensive care |
Bronze Plus Packaged
The Bronze Plus Packaged plan combines hospital and extra cover in one policy. It offers comprehensive private hospital access to common treatments and includes extras like optical and dental, making it a good all-in-one option for individuals or families.
| 📉 Weekly Premium | $43.12 for a single adult (<30, NSW, income <$97,000, no excess) |
| 📈 Cover | Private hospital and extras cover |
| 📊 Inclusions | Hospital care for bone, joint, and muscle procedures; extras like dental and optical benefits |
| 💹 Exclusions | Excludes treatments such as pregnancy and birth, cataracts, and cardiac surgery |
| ⭐ Key Considerations | A bundled plan that simplifies coverage by including hospital and extra benefits. |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Combines hospital and extras into one plan | Higher premiums compared to hospital-only plans |
| Covers podiatric surgery and basic dental | Annual limits apply for extra usage |
| No excess for eligible members | Excludes pregnancy and advanced treatments |
| Includes optical and physiotherapy benefits | Limited benefits for complex medical needs |
| Simplifies policy management | Not ideal for members requiring high-cost care |
Silver Plus Pregnancy
Silver Plus Pregnancy is ideal for members who want to expand their families. It offers comprehensive maternity and newborn care alongside broader private hospital coverage for treatments such as breast surgery, gynecology, and back and spine procedures.
| 📉 Weekly Premium | $52.54 for a single adult (<30, NSW, income <$97,000) |
| 📈 Cover | Private hospital cover, including pregnancy and birth |
| 📊 Inclusions | Pregnancy care, gynaecology, breast surgery, and newborn hospital services |
| 💹 Exclusions | Advanced non-maternity treatments like cataracts and spinal surgery |
| ⭐ Key Considerations | Tailored for growing families with extensive maternity support |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Comprehensive maternity and newborn cover | Higher premiums compared to other plans |
| Includes gynecology and breast surgery | Not suitable for members without maternity needs |
| Tailored for expectant parents | Excludes non-maternity advanced treatments |
| Broad hospital access to maternity services | Requires planning due to waiting periods |
| Designed to meet family expansion needs | Limited benefits for unrelated medical issues |
Silver Plus
Silver Plus is one of the most comprehensive plans covering high-cost medical services like cataracts and hearing devices. It’s ideal for individuals who require extensive health care and advanced treatments.
| 📉 Weekly Premium | $61.59 for a single adult (<30, NSW, income <$97,000, no excess) |
| 📈 Cover | Advanced private hospital cover, including specialised surgeries and complex procedures |
| 📊 Inclusions | Cataracts, diabetes management, vascular system treatments, and hearing devices |
| 💹 Exclusions | None explicitly listed; designed for high-complexity medical cover |
| ⭐ Key Considerations | A high-tier plan provides peace of mind for members requiring extensive medical services |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Covers high-cost advanced treatments | Higher premiums compared to other plans |
| Includes cataracts and hearing device cover | Not bundled with extras; separate purchase needed |
| Ideal for managing chronic or serious conditions | Gap payments possible for non-agreement hospitals |
| Extensive private hospital access | Not cost-effective for minimal care needs |
Extras Plans
Hunter Health Insurance offers the following extra plans:
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💴 Weekly Premium | 🔑 Key Features | 🌟 Target Members |
| 📉 Ideal Extras | From $15.40 | Dental, physiotherapy, optical | Young adults needing minimal extras |
| 📈 Healthy Extras | From $28.82 | Broader benefits like orthodontics | Families with children |
| 📊 Hunter Extras | From $32.73 | Hearing aids, advanced dental, health aids | Members requiring comprehensive extras |
| 💹 Premium Extras | From $32.73 | High-tier dental and optical, health programs | High-demand healthcare users |
Recent User Reviews
🥇 Smooth Referral Process with HHI
The referral process through HHI was easy and quick when I needed to see a specialist not long ago. Thanks to the staff’s detailed instructions, I had no trouble at all. – Laura
🥈 Efficient Customer Support at HHI
Customer support from HHI was fast and efficient in resolving a small problem I was having with a claim. I could tell they cared about my pleasure as a client because of how quickly they responded. – Westley
Hunter Health Insurance vs HCi Health Insurance vs GMHBA Health Insurance – A Comparison
| 🔎 Provider | 🥇 Hunter Health Insurance | 🥈 HCi Health Insurance | 🥉 GMHBA Health Insurance |
| 📌 Years in Operation | 72 Years | 86 years | 90 years |
| 🫶 Average Number of Members | 5,000+ | 13,200 | Over 320,000 members |
| 🛡️ APRA Regulation | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 📍 Number of Employees | 10 – 50 | 10 – 50 | 201-500 |
| 📑 Market Share | <0.3% | <0.1% | Positioned as Australia’s leading regionally-based health insurer |
| 🗃️ Market Cover | Australia | Australia | Australia-wide cover |
| 🩷 Customer Rating | 4.3/5 (based on limited reviews) | 3.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| ⭐ Number of reviews | 20+ | 20+ | 1,000+ |
| 📲 Mobile App | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 💴 Premium Range (AUD) | $32.86–$61.59 per week | Varies | $19.25 per week to $3,269.80 per year |
| 🌎 International Travel Benefit | None | None | None |
| ⚙️ Market Capitalisation | Not-for-profit | Unpublished | None indicated; net profit of $12.6 million (2023-24) |
| 💛 Unique Features | Regionally focused health plans, partnerships for chronic disease management, community wellness programs, virtual cancer support programs | Hospital Cover, easy switching, accident cover, wellness programs | Youth Discount, Access Gap Cover, Online Member Area, Emergency Ambulance Cover |
Advantages of Hunter Health Insurance
Hunter Health Insurance (HHI) has been a trusted provider in the Hunter Valley since 1952, originally founded as the Cessnock District Health Benefits Fund to serve the coal mining sector. Over the years, HHI has expanded its services to support the agriculture, tourism, and energy production industries.
As a community-focused insurer, HHI tailors its insurance solutions to meet the needs of residents and businesses. The Cancer Support Programme, offered virtually through Valion Health, helps individuals affected by cancer by promoting both physical and mental well-being.
HHI’s long-standing commitment to the region ensures its health insurance strategy aligns with the values and needs of the Hunter Valley community. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like Kieser Australia and Amplar Home Health offer specialized care programs in joint health, spinal care, and home-based health management.
Overview of Hunter Health Insurance Gap Cover
Gap payments in private health insurance occur when the expenses for medical or hospital services surpass the payments made by an insurer or Medicare.
Hunter Health Insurance fills these gaps under certain conditions, but members should keep in mind the possibility of out-of-pocket expenses.
When Do Gap Payments Occur?
Product Choice
Gap payments can result from the insurance product. Policies with excess, co-payment requirements, or restricted benefits for certain procedures can lead to out-of-pocket expenses.
For instance, procedures excluded under a member’s plan will not receive full coverage, potentially incurring a gap.
Hospital Accommodation
Private hospital treatment costs can create gaps if the hospital lacks an agreement with the health fund.
While some hospitals have arrangements to cap fees at agreed levels, members opting for facilities outside these agreements may face unexpected charges. Members should always confirm hospital benefit levels with the insurer before admission.
Doctor’s Fees for In-hospital Services
When receiving medical treatment as a private patient, Medicare covers 75% of the Commonwealth Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee, with health insurance covering the remaining 25%.
If a doctor’s charges exceed the MBS fee, the patient must pay the difference. To mitigate surprises, members should request quotes from surgeons, anaesthetists, and assisting practitioners.
Extras Gap Payments
Ancillary services such as dental, physiotherapy, or optical care can also incur gaps if the fees charged by a provider exceed the benefit allowed under the plan. Insurers can impose annual benefit limits or require members to use providers within their network to minimise costs.
Common Gap Payment Scenarios
| 🔎 Scenario | 🅰️ Potential Gap Causes | 🅱️ Key Considerations |
| 📉 Hospital Accommodation | Non-agreement hospital charges | Confirm agreements between hospitals and the insurer before admission |
| 📈 Doctor’s Fees | Charges exceeding the MBS fee | Obtain detailed quotes from all treating practitioners to estimate potential gaps |
| 📊 Extras Services | Provider fees exceeding allowed benefits; annual benefit limits | Verify cover limits for specific services and check if providers have agreements with the insurer |
Hunter Health Insurance App Features
The Hunter Health Insurance app gives members useful health management tools. The app focuses on practicality, providing safe access to important information and making everyday tasks easier.
Important Aspects of the App
Members can keep track of benefit limits and usage, letting them see their remaining allowances for extras and other services. Moreover:
- Members can easily upload receipts and submit claims directly through the app for a hassle-free and paperless claims process.
- Members can stay informed with instant updates on claims processing status, any changes to the policy, or other important announcements.
- The membership card is available digitally so that members can use it with participating healthcare providers.
- Members can view the details of their current policy, including what’s covered, what’s not, and the premium information.
Furthermore, the app can be used to contact Hunter Health Insurance’s support team.
How to Apply for Health Insurance
Hunter Health Insurance offers a few ways for prospective members to apply, including online, by phone, or in person. Here’s a step-by-step on how to use each method to apply for health insurance with HHI.
Online Application
Members can visit Hunter Health Insurance’s website to explore available products and get quotes. After selecting the preferred cover, complete the digital application form with personal and policy-related details.
By Phone
Applicants may call Hunter Health Insurance directly at the provided contact number to speak with a representative. Over the phone, you can discuss cover options, clarify any questions, and complete the application process with guidance from the support team.
In-Person Application
For those preferring face-to-face assistance, applications can be completed at Hunter Health Insurance’s branch. Staff members assist applicants in selecting the right cover and submitting the required forms onsite.
Application Step Summary
| 🖥️ Online | Visit the Hunter Health Insurance website |
| 💻 Online | Get a quote for the desired plan |
| 🖱️ Online | Complete and submit the online application form |
| ☎️ By Phone | Call Hunter Health Insurance directly |
| 📞 By Phone | Discuss product options with a representative |
| 📲 By Phone | Complete the application over the phone |
| 🥰 In-Person | Visit the Hunter Health Insurance branch |
| 😊 In-Person | Consult with a staff member to select cover |
| 🫶 In-Person | Apply to an HHI branch |
How to apply for Gap Cover
This section outlines the steps to apply for Gap Cover with Hunter Health Insurance, along with key considerations related to eligibility and documentation.
Steps to Apply
First, confirm your current private health insurance policy with Hunter Health Insurance.
- Ensure the policy includes the hospital components necessary for Gap Cover eligibility.
- Contact the customer support team to discuss your needs and get detailed information about available Gap Cover options.
- Complete the application form provided by Hunter Health Insurance and provide accurate details.
- Upload or email supporting documentation like proof of existing private health insurance coverage to complete your application.
Once the application and documentation are submitted, await Hunter Health Insurance’s formal confirmation regarding your Gap Cover enrollment.
How to Submit a Claim with Hunter Health Insurance
Hunter Health Insurance has different ways to submit claims. This section details the processes for submitting claims and considerations for each claims method.
Claim Submission Methods
On-the-Spot Claims
For services covered under Extra’s policies, claims can be processed directly at the provider’s location. Members must show their membership card, and the claim is lodged electronically, leaving the member responsible only for any gap payments.
Online Claims
Members can submit claims using the online claim form available on the Hunter Health Insurance website.
In-Person Claims
Members can visit the Hunter Health Insurance branch with their membership card and original receipts. Staff will assist in lodging the claim.
Email Claims
Claims can be sent via email by attaching original receipts to the address provided by Hunter Health Insurance.
Postal Claims
For traditional methods, members can download and print claim forms, complete the documents, and mail receipts to Hunter Health Insurance’s postal address.
Summary of Claim Methods
| 🔎 Submission Method | 🅰️ Required Documentation | 🅱️ Processing Time |
| 📍 On-the-Spot | Membership card | Immediate |
| 💻 Online | Digital claim form, scanned receipts | Up to 7 business days |
| 🥰 In-Person | Membership card, original receipts | Up to 7 business days |
| Digital receipts | Up to 7 business days | |
| 🚩 Postal | Claim form, original receipts | Up to 7 business days (plus mailing time) |
How to Upgrade or Downgrade My Plan
Below, we provide the steps to modify a Hunter Health Insurance plan. This will detail the process to follow when upgrading or downgrading your plan with HHI. To make changes, complete the Member Alterations form, which is available on the Hunter Health Insurance website. Here is the process:
- Visit the Hunter Health Insurance website and go to the “Forms” section.
- Select the Member Alterations form.
- Provide your full name and membership number. If needed, update any contact information (new address, phone number, or email address).
- Select the plan modifications. Choose from options like Silver Plus Pregnancy Hospital or Basic Hospital for hospital coverage.
- Similarly, choose the appropriate level of Extras cover, such as Hunter Extras or Premium Extras.
- Specify if you need to add, remove, or modify dependent information on the policy.
- If updating your name or other details, attach the supporting documents using the form’s file upload section. Note that attachments can’t exceed a 32 MB limit.
Verify the information, sign the form, and submit it as instructed. Changes to your plan will be processed after receipt and confirmation by Hunter Health Insurance.
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How do I add a Beneficiary to Hunter Health Insurance?
Hunter Health Insurance lets members update their policies by adding dependents using the Member Alterations form. Here are the requirements and process for adding people to your policy:
Requirements for Adding a Beneficiary
| 🔎 Requirement | 📌 Details |
| 1️⃣ Membership Details | Provide your full name and membership number as registered with Hunter Health Insurance |
| 2️⃣ Updated Contact Information | If applicable, update your address, phone numbers, and email address to reflect current details |
| 3️⃣ Dependent Information | Specify the dependent’s details under the "Add/Remove Dependent" section of the form |
| 4️⃣ Membership Type Adjustment | If adding a dependent, adjust your membership type from Single to Family if required |
| 5️⃣ Documentation | Upload supporting documents such as birth certificates or proof of relationship (limit: 32 MB) |
| 6️⃣ Signature | Sign the form electronically to confirm the accuracy of the provided information |
How to Submit a Compliment or Complaint with Hunter Health Insurance
Our section below details the steps and communication methods available to submit a compliment or complaint to Hunter Health Insurance. It also outlines the timelines for acknowledgment, updates, resolution, and escalation procedures for unresolved cases.
Communication Methods
Members can share their feedback using any of the following methods:
- In-Person: Visit the branch at 151 Vincent Street, Cessnock NSW, for a face-to-face discussion about your feedback.
- Phone: Call 02 4990 1385 to speak directly with a representative.
- Mail: Send written feedback to PO Box 183, Cessnock NSW 2325.
- Email: Address your detailed written feedback to [email protected].
In addition, members can use the feedback form available on the Hunter Health Insurance website for digital submissions.
Timelines and Escalation
Hunter Health Insurance acknowledges written complaints within five business days or immediately if submitted by phone.
- Progress updates or requests for additional information are provided within seven days, while most complaints are resolved within 21 days.
- If a resolution requires more time, members will be informed accordingly.
Should the complaint remain unresolved, members can escalate the matter to the Commonwealth Private Health Insurance Ombudsman for mediation. The Ombudsman can be contacted via their website or phone at 1300 362 072.
How to Switch my Health Insurance to Hunter Health Insurance
Here are the steps required to switch your current health insurance policy to Hunter Health Insurance. We also include the documentation and waiting period considerations.
| 🔎 Step | 📌 Details |
| 📑 Choose a Hunter Health Plan | Select an appropriate health insurance plan that matches your current coverage |
| 🗃️ Request a Clearance Certificate | Contact your existing insurer and request a clearance certificate (this document details your previous cover and served waiting periods) |
| ✏️ Complete the Application | Submit the Hunter Health Insurance application form |
| 📇 Provide Supporting Documents | Attach the clearance certificate and any other information when submitting your application |
| ❤️ Wait for Confirmation | Hunter Health Insurance will confirm the successful transfer of your membership and provide details about your new policy |
Key Considerations
Eligibility for Clearance Certificate
The clearance certificate is mandatory for transferring health insurance and must include details of your previous policy’s duration and benefits.
Waiting Period Recognition
If you switch to Hunter Health Insurance within 30 days of leaving your previous fund and retain equivalent benefits, any waiting periods you’ve already served will be honoured. However, upgrading to a higher-tier policy will require serving waiting periods for the additional benefits.
Cover During Transition
Ensure continuous coverage by maintaining your existing policy until Hunter Health Insurance confirms the activation of your new plan.
Hunter Health Insurance Corporate Responsibility
Hunter Health Insurance (HHI) demonstrates a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility through the following:
| 🔎 Initiative | 🅰️ Details | 🅱️ Impact |
| ❤️ Support for Little Wings Australia | Provides free air and ground transport for seriously ill children in remote NSW | HHI matches member donations for ground transport, doubling the contributions to this vital service |
| 🧡 Community and Youth Services Directory | Developed a directory connecting Hunter region residents with health professionals, businesses, and community centres | Access to essential health and wellness services to ensure a connected community |
| 💛 Employee Involvement | Team members volunteer for community programs like wrapping gifts for children using Little Wings services | Strengthens community bonds and delivers meaningful support to families |
Hunter Health Insurance Regulation
Hunter Health Insurance operates within a strict regulatory framework established by the Australian Government to uphold the integrity and reliability of private health insurance providers. Here are the details of HHI’s regulation:
- The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) supervises private health insurers. APRA ensures financial stability and compliance with regulatory requirements, safeguarding the long-term sustainability of insurers like Hunter Health Insurance.
- The Private Health Insurance Ombudsman (PHIO) is an independent resource for addressing consumer concerns. It investigates complaints, provides guidance on policy disputes, and offers information to help individuals make informed choices about their private health insurance coverage.
Key Regulatory Roles
APRA
- Supervises financial stability to ensure insurers meet their obligations.
- Enforces compliance with regulatory standards across the industry.
PHIO
- Resolve consumer complaints related to health insurance policies.
- Provides independent advice to help consumers navigate private health insurance options.
Customer Support and Contact Details
| 🔎 Contact Method | 🅰️ Details | 🅱️ Operational Hours |
| 🥰 In-Person | Visit the branch at 151-153 Vincent St, Cessnock, NSW | Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm AEST |
| ☎️ Phone | Call 02 4990 1385 for assistance or inquiries | Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm AEST |
| Send detailed inquiries to [email protected] | 24/7 email receipt; response times within business hours | |
| 🖱️ Online Inquiry Form | Complete the form on the Hunter Health Insurance website to submit questions or requests | 24/7 submission; responses within business hours |
Accessibility and Additional Services
National Relay Service (NRS)
Members who are deaf or hard of hearing can contact NRS via TTY at 133 677, Speak & Listen at 1300 555 727, or SMS relay at 0423 677 767.
Interpreter Services
For non-English speakers, interpreters are available through the Translating and Interpreting Service at 131 450.
Members can also request local interpreter bookings, including Auslan, through Accredited National Interpreting and Translating Services. Additional charges may apply.
Hunter Health Insurance Rebates and Discounts
Hunter Health Insurance members could qualify for financial rebates under the Australian Government’s Private Health Insurance Rebate program.
The rebate is applied as a percentage of the premium and varies across three income tiers. Eligibility is assessed annually by the Australian Tax Office (ATO), and members can claim the rebate either as a reduction in their premiums or as part of their annual tax return.
Private Health Insurance Rebate Tiers
| 🔎 Age Bracket | 💴 Income Tier 1 (Single <$93,000 / Family <$186,000) | 💶 Income Tier 2 (Single $93,001–$108,000 / Family $186,001–$216,000) | 💵 Income Tier 3 (Single $108,001–$144,000 / Family $216,001–$288,000) |
| 📉 Under 65 | 24.608% | 16.405% | 8.202% |
| 📈 65–69 | 28.710% | 20.507% | 12.303% |
| 📊 70 and Over | 32.812% | 24.608% | 16.405% |
Additional notes on rebates
- Singles earning above $144,000 or families earning above $288,000 are not eligible for the rebate.
- Members can check their eligibility and claim the rebate through Hunter Health Insurance directly or during their annual tax filing.
Additional Health Services and Products
Hunter Health Insurance has a few additional health services and programs that support members and help them achieve and maintain overall well-being.
These services include partnerships with reputable organisations and access to resources tailored to specific health needs. Here’s a quick rundown on these services.
Valion Cancer Support Program
Hunter Health Insurance partners with Valion Health to offer a 12-week virtual Cancer Support Program. This program provides comprehensive assistance to members impacted by cancer, focusing on both physical and mental well-being.
Members over 18 who received a cancer diagnosis within the past 24 months, are undergoing active treatment, or have advanced cancer. Here are the services offered under this program:
- Cancer care nurses for medical guidance and emotional support.
- Dieticians for personalised nutrition plans.
- Exercise physiologists to design condition-appropriate workouts.
- Psychologists for stress and mental health management.
- Yoga therapists for gentle physical activity and relaxation.
Services are delivered virtually through video calls or phone, eliminating the need for travel.
Kieser Health Programs
Through its partnership with Kieser Australia, Hunter Health Insurance offers specialised programs for managing joint and spinal health.
Knee and Hip Care Program
- Preventing or delaying joint replacement surgery.
- Includes pain management strategies and personalised exercise routines.
Spinal Care Plan
- To alleviate pain and improve mobility for lower back conditions.
- Includes long-term self-management techniques for spinal health.
Amplar Home Health
Amplar Home Health provides in-home health services to members, emphasizing accessibility and continuity of care. Here are a few services offered:
- Chronic disease management to support long-term health conditions.
- Post-operative care to aid recovery after hospital stays.
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate individual health needs.
Additional Health Directories
Hunter Health Insurance connects members to local resources for a holistic approach to well-being:
- Community and Youth Services: Support groups and youth programs for social well-being.
- Healthy Eating: Nutrition experts, health stores, and dietary resources to encourage balanced diets.
- Gyms and Fitness: Directories to locate fitness facilities across the Hunter region.
- Health Professionals: Access to trusted medical professionals and clinics in the area.
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Plans cater to families, singles, and older adults | Waiting periods apply for upgraded cover or new benefits |
| Flexible customer support options | Cover restrictions for complex treatments |
| Programs like Valion Cancer Support provide virtual access to healthcare | Excludes benefits for non-emergency transport and outpatient care |
| Emphasis on holistic well-being through fitness, health, and community directories | Some extras plans have annual benefit limits that restrict usage |
| Diverse partnerships offer cancer support and chronic disease management | Limited flexibility for members outside the Hunter Valley region |
| Ambulance cover included in many policies | Additional fees may apply for specific interpreter services beyond standard offerings |
| Recognised partnerships with local providers ensure high-quality services and community engagement | Dependents over 25 are not covered unless specific conditions |
In Conclusion
Overall, based on our review, we can conclude that Hunter Health Insurance (HHI) has a mix of local services and health solutions for members. The plans can cater to different needs and cover everything from basic hospital plans to more comprehensive options, including extras.
Apart from its base health insurance offer, HHI’s focus on partnerships with Valion Health, Kieser, and Amplar shows HHI’s dedication to enhancing health outcomes for its members.
Nonetheless, we found that some features, like the restrictions on more extensive treatments or the pricing model, won’t be suitable for everyone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from another fund to Hunter Health Insurance?
Yes, you can switch to Hunter Health Insurance from another fund, and HHI can help you with the transfer procedure.
What approach does HHI take to community engagement?
HHI supports community activities and partners with organisations such as Little Wings, a non-profit that provides transportation services for very ill children.
Is there a family policy offered by HHI?
Yes, HHI offers family health insurance that covers dependents. Adult children are insured until they reach 21, whereas full-time students are covered until they turn 25.
What are the advantages of choosing HHI over other health insurance plans?
HHI offers customisable health insurance solutions, personalised service, and an emphasis on the community. As a non-profit fund, HHI prioritises member benefits over profits.
Does Hunter Health Insurance cover emergency ambulance services in every state?
No, their ambulance cover doesn’t cover services in Victoria, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, or South Australia.
Does Hunter Health Insurance have arrangements with private hospitals?
Yes, they partner with more than 90% of private hospitals across Australia.
Does Hunter Health Insurance provide any health or wellness programs?
Yes, they have Healthy Lifestyle, Health Management, and Chronic Disease Management programs to assist members in getting, staying, and living well.
