St. Lukes Health ☑️ (2025)

St. Lukes Health

St. Lukes Health was established in 1952 as a not-for-profit health fund. It offers hospital and extra cover plans, including combined cover options.

St. Lukes Health operates wellness hubs in Launceston and Hobart, offering health-focused activities and resources. In 2023, St. Lukes Health received the Roy Morgan 2023 Customer Satisfaction Award for Private Health Insurer of the Year.

🔎 Date Established	1952
📌 Headquartered	Launceston, Tasmania
📍 Registration Number	ABN 81 009 479 618
👤 The average number of members	±57,000
👥 Number of Employees	50 – 200
🛡️ APRA-Regulated	✅Yes
📉 The most recent Market Cap reported	Not applicable; not-for-profit
⭐ Average Customer Rating	93.6% satisfaction (based on awards data for 2023) and 3.0/5 according to 22 customer comments
💛 Average Number of Reviews	20+
📈 Market Share	0.6% according to the number of policyholders and cover
📊 The number of plans offered	7 hospital-only, 4 extras
💹 Sponsorships	None
📲 Is a Mobile App offered	St Lukes Connect App
🖥️ Medical Claims Portal	Available via the St Lukes Connect app and HICAPS system
⏰ Customer Support Operating Hours	9 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
📑 Information Hub and Blog	Offers health and wellness articles through their wellness hub
🩺 Chronic Illness Benefits	✅Yes
🧑‍⚕️ Screening and Prevention offered	Gap-free preventative dental services available under eligible Extras cover, and others
🍼 Maternity Benefit	Included in some plans
💶 Health Insurance Premium Range (AUD)	From $21.05 per week to $2,332.70 per year
⌛ Average Waiting Period	2–12 months (average)
🌎 International Medical Cover	None
✈️ International Travel Benefit	None

St. Lukes Health Plan Overview

🔎 Plan	💶 Premium Range AUD	❌ Exclusions	❤️ Ideal For	📉 Gap Cover	📈 Rebate Percentage	⏰ Average Waiting Period	⭐ Key Features
🥇 Basic Plus Hospital 500	$21.05/week to $1,072.85/yea	Bone, joint and muscle, Brain and nervous system, Digestive system, Pain management, etc.	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Covers essential inpatient services; $500 excess; no excess for child dependants; post-natal care, etc.
🥈 Bronze Hospital 250	$27.20/week to $1,384.90/year	Dental surgery, Lung and Chest, Heart and vascular system, Podiatric surgery, etc.	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Basic hospital cover, Gynaecology, Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy for cancer, Breast surgery (medically necessary), Miscarriage and termination of pregnancy, etc.
🥉 Bronze Plus Hospital 250	$28.15/week to $1,433.70/year	Advanced elective surgeries, insulin pumps, cosmetic treatments, Back, neck, and spine (incl. fusion), Dialysis for chronic kidney disease	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Expanded cover for cancer treatments, rehabilitation, joint reconstructions, Tonsils, adenoids, grommets, Eye (not cataracts), Diabetes (excluding insulin pumps)
🏅 Silver Plus Hospital 250	$36.65/week to $1,866.35/year	Pregnancy and birth, Assisted reproductive services, Pain management with devices, Cataracts, Joint replacements, etc.	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Chronic conditions, reproductive health, kidney and vascular surgeries, no excess for child dependants, etc.
🎖️ Planner Silver Plus Hospital 250	$44.15/week to $2,249.45/year	Insulin pumps, Joint replacements, Weight loss surgery, Pain management with device, Dialysis for chronic kidney disease	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Post-natal care, pain management, inpatient chronic disease management, Podiatric surgery, Plastic and reconstructive surgery (medically necessary), Kidney and bladder, etc.
🥇 Protector Silver Plus Hospital 250	$44.20/week to $2,251.15/year	Pregnancy and birth, Assisted reproductive services, Weight loss surgery	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Robust cover; includes cancer treatments, joint replacements, chronic disease management, Dental surgery, Podiatric surgery, Pain management with device, etc.
🥈 Gold Hospital 300	$45.80/week to $2,332.70/year	Elective and cosmetic treatments	Singles, Couples, Families, Seniors	✅Yes	Based on income and age	2–12 months	Comprehensive cover; pregnancy, childbirth, insulin pumps, Male reproductive system, Dialysis for chronic kidney disease, Heart and vascular system, and more

St. Lukes Health Plans – Features and Benefits

Each St. Lukes Health insurance plan offers distinct cover. Below, our section outlines each plan’s key features, benefits, exclusions, and considerations to help members make informed decisions.

Basic Plus Hospital 500

This plan includes essential inpatient services. The $500 excess applies to adult hospitalizations, and members can reduce premiums by choosing a higher excess. Advanced elective surgeries and insulin pump therapy are excluded.

Cost: $21.05/week to $1,072.85/year (single <25 in TAS, $500 excess).
Offers post-natal care in specific regions.
Option to lower premiums by choosing a higher excess.
Provides no excess for child dependents.
Covers essential hospital treatments like joint replacements and rehabilitation.
Includes cancer treatments, breast surgeries, and pain management.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Affordable premiums compared to higher-tier plans	Limited cover for specialized treatments or elective surgeries
Covers essential surgeries, therapies, and inpatient services.	High excess applies to adults for same-day and overnight hospitalizations
No excess for child dependents	Excludes some advanced or cosmetic treatments
Includes post-natal care in specific regions	Not as comprehensive as Silver or Gold plans
Option to lower premiums with a higher excess	Does not cover certain chronic condition treatments like insulin pumps

Bronze Hospital 250

Cover includes general inpatient hospital treatments. Members can combine this plan with extra coverage to extend their coverage to outpatient services. Exclusions include joint replacements, advanced surgeries, and extensive chronic condition management.

Cost: $27.20/week to $1,384.90/year (single <25 in TAS, $250 excess).
Compatible with Extras cover for broader health needs.
No waiting periods for members switching from equivalent cover.
Covers same-day and overnight hospital admissions with lower out-of-pocket costs.
Covers essential inpatient treatments.
Offers no excess for child dependents.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Affordable premiums with a low excess	Does not cover joint replacements or advanced surgeries
No excess for child dependants	Limited specialist service cover
Combines with Extras for broader health protection	No cover for certain chronic conditions
Suitable for individuals needing essential cover without added features	Excludes extensive services offered in Silver and Gold plans
No waiting periods when switching from an equivalent cover	Higher out-of-pocket costs for adults compared to comprehensive plans

Bronze Plus Hospital 250

This plan expands on the Bronze Hospital by adding cover for cancer treatments, joint reconstructions, and rehabilitation.

Exclusions include advanced elective procedures, specialized diabetic care (such as insulin pumps), and cosmetic surgeries. The $250 excess applies to adults, while child dependents are exempt from excess charges.

Cost: $28.15/week to $1,433.70/year (single <25 in TAS, $250 excess).
Provides pain management services.
Covers cancer treatments, rehabilitation, and joint reconstruction.
Includes post-natal care in certain regions.
Offers reasonable premiums with options to adjust excess.
No excess for child dependents.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Covers cancer treatments, rehabilitation, and pain management	Limited cover for highly specialized or elective surgeries
Still affordable, with options to adjust premiums via excess	High excess for adults
No excess for child dependants	Excludes cover for advanced diabetic treatments
Includes post-natal care and joint reconstructions	Excludes some extensive treatments and hospitalizations

Silver Plus Hospital 250

Members can access treatments for chronic conditions. Reproductive health services and post-natal care are also included. The $250 excess applies to adult hospitalizations, while child dependants are exempt. Exclusions include cosmetic surgeries and certain advanced treatments.

Cost: $36.65/week to $1,866.35/year (single <25 in TAS, $250 excess).
No excess for child dependents.
Flexible premium and excess options for different budgets.
Covers joint replacements, kidney treatments, and vascular procedures.
Includes chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, sleep studies).
Provides post-natal care and reproductive health services.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
No excess for child dependants	Limited availability of some high-cost treatments
Covers major surgeries like joint replacements and vascular treatments.	Not as comprehensive as Gold plans
Post-natal and reproductive health care included	Higher premiums than Bronze plans
Offers savings with flexible excess option	The excess applies to adult hospitalizations

Planner Silver Plus Hospital 250

This plan offers flexibility and covers treatments such as chronic disease management, comprehensive inpatient services, and significant surgeries like vascular and kidney procedures. Exclusions consist of advanced elective surgeries, non-medical treatments, and cosmetic procedures.

Cost: $44.15/week to $2,249.45/year (single <25 in TAS, $250 excess).
Focused on preventive and long-term health needs.
Covers joint replacements, cancer treatments, and inpatient rehabilitation.
Offers tailored flexibility to adjust premiums and excess.
Includes post-natal care, chronic disease management, and pain management.
No excess for child dependents.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Provides tailored flexibility for personalised cover	High excess on specific services for adults
Includes post-natal care and chronic disease management	Limited non-essential and elective treatment options
Supports significant surgeries and pain management programs	Excludes advanced elective surgeries

Protector Silver Plus Hospital 250

A similar offer to the Planner Silver Plus, this plan provides robust coverage for essential and urgent medical needs. Cosmetic treatments, advanced elective procedures, and certain specialist services are excluded.

Cost: $44.20/week to $2,251.15/year (single <25 in TAS, $250 excess).
Includes chronic disease and pain management care.
Provides no excess for child dependents.
Covers major surgeries, including joint replacements and cancer treatments.
Offers mid-range comprehensive cover at an affordable premium.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Comprehensive mid-range cover for major surgeries	Excludes cosmetic and elective procedures
Includes chronic disease management	Excess applies to adults in specific cases

Gold Hospital 300

This top-tier plan includes full inpatient cover for complex and advanced medical needs. Cover extends to pregnancy, childbirth, and post-natal care.

Cosmetic and elective treatments are excluded. Members benefit from not having to pay an excess for child dependants, while the $300 excess applies to adults.

Cost: $45.80/week to $2,332.70/year (single <25 in TAS, $300 excess).
Covers chronic and complex conditions, including insulin pumps.
Offers major surgeries like back and vascular system treatments.
Full cover for advanced and specialized surgeries.
Includes pregnancy, birth services, and post-natal care.
Provides Gold-level benefits without extra out-of-pocket costs.
No excess for child dependents.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
No excess for child dependants	Medicare Levy Surcharge applies to high-income earners
Gold-level benefits without additional out-of-pocket costs for major services	Not suitable for those with limited budgets

Recent User Reviews

🥇 Great Service at Launceston Office

I love visiting the Launceston office because of the great personnel. Jo went above and beyond to help me this morning with a grin. – Mike

🥈 Long-Term Member Disappointment

Since joining St. Lukes Health over 10 years ago, I’ve questioned its value. A $250 co-payment for day procedures and an excessive premium increase without any supplementary cover changes have disappointed me. It seems less member-focused than it used to be. – Jo

🥉 Frustrating Experience with the Connect App

Connect app navigation was difficult. I had to verify my information again after signing in and received a verification code. Finally, I had to call St. Lukes Health to validate the code-sending phone number. It was very difficult and frustrating. – Jason

St. Lukes Health vs onemedifund vs ahm – A Comparison

🔎 Provider	🥇 St. Lukes Health	🥈 onemedifund	🥉 ahm
📌 Years in Operation	72 years	2007	53 years
👤 Average Number of Members	±57,000	Not Published	950,000
📍 APRA Regulation	✅Yes	✅Yes	✅Yes
👥 Number of Employees	50 – 200	10 – 50	200 - 500
🅰️ Market Share	0.6% according to the number of policyholders and cover	<0.1%	±27.1%
🅱️ Market Cover	National cover across all Australian states	Australia	Australia
⭐ Customer Rating	93.6% satisfaction (based on awards data for 2023) and 3.0/5 according to 22 customer comments	Limited customer reviews and ratings	4.1/5
💛 Number of reviews	20+	Limited	600+
📲 Mobile App	✅Yes	✅Yes	✅Yes
💶 Premium Range (AUD)	From $21.05 per week to $2,332.70 per year	Varies	From $19.00 - $3,287.65
🌎 International Travel Benefit	None	None	✅Yes
📉 Market Capitalisation	Not applicable; not-for-profit	None published	Not published
📈 Unique Features	Not-for-profit; gap-free dental; wellness hubs; community-focused programs	Comprehensive hospital cover, dental, optical, physiotherapy, complementary therapies, pharmaceuticals, and health management programs.	Offers 2 native apps, low and affordable premiums, offers 22 plans

Advantages of Using St. Lukes Health

St. Lukes Health has benefits that cater to all types of members. By combining essential health coverage with practical features like gap-free preventative dental care and policies designed for families, St. Lukes Health simplifies the healthcare experience for Australians.

Below is a breakdown of the advantages St. Lukes Health offers its members:

🔎 Advantage	📌 Description	❤️ Who Benefits
📉 Gap-Free Preventative Dental	Covers 100% of eligible dental services, including check-ups and cleaning, at participating providers	Families, Individuals
📈 No Excess for Children	Removes out-of-pocket costs for dependent children during hospital admissions	Families
📊 Family-Friendly Policies	Subsidizes healthcare services, making healthcare more affordable for families	Families
💹 Australia-Wide Cover	Ensures consistent access to private health services across all states and territories	All Members
📉 Digital Accessibility	The St. LukesConnect app allows members to manage policies, claims, and payments conveniently	All Members
📈 Focus on Health and Wellness	Offers resources like the wellness hub, health programs, and tailored initiatives for healthier living	All Members
📊 Member Benefits	Includes services like dental care and health programs aimed at improving overall wellbeing	All Members
💹 Award-Winning Customer Service	Recognized as Private Health Insurer of the Year for providing reliable and member-focused services	All Members
📉 Comprehensive Cover Options	Provides tailored hospital and extra plans suitable for singles, families, and seniors	All Members
📈 Commitment to Community	Reinvests profits into enhancing member services and supporting local initiatives	All Members

Overview of St. Lukes Health Gap Cover

St. Lukes Health Gap Cover collaborates with doctors to reduce additional fees for inpatient services. This is achieved through two specific arrangements: No Gap Providers and Known Gap Providers.

How the Gap Cover Works

The Gap Cover covers the difference between the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee and participating doctors’ charges for hospital services.

While Medicare covers 75% of the MBS fee and St. Lukes covers the remaining 25%, any amount charged beyond the MBS fee is the patient’s responsibility unless covered under this program.

No Gap Providers

These doctors charge no more than the agreed schedule fee under the Gap Cover. Patients incur no additional costs.

Known Gap Providers

These doctors charge a set amount above the scheduled fee. Patients are informed of this fixed cost beforehand through “informed financial consent.”

How to Use the Gap Cover

Contact your doctor or hospital to confirm if they are a participating No Gap or Known Gap Provider under the St. Lukes Gap Cover program.

If using a Known Gap Provider, request a clear breakdown of the out-of-pocket costs before treatment as part of informed financial consent.
Identify other medical professionals involved in your care, such as anesthetists or surgeons, and verify their participation in the program.
Share your St. Lukes Health membership number with participating providers to ensure seamless billing.

Participating doctors handle billing directly with St. Lukes Health, covering Medicare and St. Lukes contributions. For non-participating doctors, patients are responsible for settling the gap.

St. Lukes Health App Features

The St Lukes Connect offers practical tools for members to manage their health insurance via an iOS and Android app. Its features allow users to track benefit limits, submit claims, and update personal details. Here are the key features:

Users can view premium details, make payments, and choose specific payment dates to update policies.
Members can monitor their benefit limits, review usage history, and check waiting periods directly within the app, ensuring clear oversight of their policies.
Members can update contact details, add dependents, or make policy adjustments without contacting customer service.
Adjusting contact preferences is straightforward, with options for email, text, or app notifications tailored to individual communication preferences.
The app enables users to submit claims by uploading receipts and tracking the claim status. A claims history feature centralizes past submissions for easy reference.

Technical Specifications

Operating Systems: Compatible with Android 8.1+ and iOS 12.4+.
Compatibility: Available on iPhone, iPod touch, Mac (Apple M1), and Android smartphones.
Downloads: Over 10,000 installations on Android.
User Ratings: Average rating of 2.5/5 on the Google Play Store from 24 reviews.
App Version: Android 24.2.2 (updated October 2024).
App Size: 34.8 MB (iOS); varies for Android devices.

Overall, the St Lukes Connect app provides a convenient and efficient way for members to manage their health insurance, though user feedback suggests there is room for improvement in its performance and usability.

How to apply for Health Insurance with St. Lukes Health

Whether applying online or by phone, applicants can follow these steps to start their health insurance journey with St. Lukes Health:

1. Step 1: Review St. Lukes Health Plans

Determine which plan aligns with your healthcare needs:

Hospital cover: Focuses on private hospital treatments.
Extras cover: Supports non-hospital services like dental, optical, and physiotherapy.

Benefits include:

Cover for child dependents up to 23 years old.
Discounts and rewards for long-term members.
No-gap and reduced-excess options for hospital visits.
Preventative dental cover and loyalty rewards.

No additional waiting periods for members transferring from another insurer if previously completed.

2. Step 2: Choose Your Application Method

Online: Visit the St. Lukes Health website, select your plan, and complete the digital application form.
Phone: Call the customer care team for assistance with the application.

3. Step 3: Submit Personal and Insurance Information

Provide your full name, contact information, and details of any previous insurance if transferring cover.

4. Step 4: Set Up Payment Preferences

Choose your preferred payment method:

Direct Debit: Automated monthly payments.

BPAY or Post BillPay: Flexible online transactions.

One-off Payments: In-person payments at customer care centers.

Once your application is processed, your cover will begin as per the terms of your selected plan. You’ll receive your membership details and can start using your benefits right away.

Application Summary

🔎 Requirement	📌 Details
📉 Documents Needed	Personal information, previous insurance details (if applicable)
📈 Application Methods	Online through the St. Lukes Health website or by phone with customer care assistance
📊 Payment Options	Direct Debit, BPAY, Post BillPay, one-off payments at customer care centers
💹 Contact for Assistance	Visit the website or call customer care for support during the application process

How to apply for Gap Cover with St. Lukes Health

To apply for gap cover, members must meet the prerequisites (verifying eligibility, confirming doctor participation, and understanding informed financial consent when applicable). Here are the steps involved with applying (or checking whether you’re eligible) for gap cover:

Ensure your St. Lukes Health membership includes private hospital cover.
Confirm that all applicable waiting periods have been completed.
Verify that your planned treatment qualifies for Medicare rebates, as Gap Cover does not apply to outpatient services or unapproved hospital facilities.
Contact your doctor to confirm if they participate in the St. Lukes Health Gap Cover program.
If your doctor is unfamiliar with the program, encourage them to contact St. Lukes Health for further details.
Identify additional healthcare professionals involved in your treatment, such as anesthetists or surgeons.
Confirm their participation in the Gap Cover program to avoid unexpected expenses.
Provide all participating providers with your St. Lukes Health membership number to facilitate seamless billing.

If your doctor is a Known Gap Provider, they must inform you of any out-of-pocket costs before treatment. Finally, review and agree to these costs before proceeding with any services.

How to Submit a Claim with St. Lukes Health

Members can choose to submit claims using the St Lukes Connect app, in-person at Customer Care Centres, by mail, or through HICAPS and HealthPoint systems using these steps:

St Lukes Connect App

Log into the app and select the claimant on your policy. Upload a photo or digital copy of the receipt. Next, Submit the claim directly through the app and track its status.

In-person at Customer Care Centres

Bring your receipts and membership card to a St Lukes Customer Care Centre. Next, submit your claim for processing; note that centers are cashless, and payments will not be issued immediately.

Approved claims are processed within three days and deposited into your bank account.

By Mail

Download and complete the St Lukes claim form from their website. Include original receipts and supporting documentation and mail the completed form to: The Claims Department, St Lukes, PO Box 915, Launceston, TAS 7250

HICAPS and HealthPoint

Use your St Lukes membership card at participating healthcare providers to process claims directly at the point of service. HICAPS is available for dental, optical, physiotherapy, and other allied health treatments. Moreover, HealthPoint enables providers to process private health fund claims through their EFTPOS terminals.

Claims Comparison Table

🔎 Submission Method	⏰ Processing Time	📑 Documentation Needed	📒 Notes
📲 St Lukes Connect App	Typically immediate	A digital copy of the receipt	Track claim status within the app
🥰 In-Person	3 days for reimbursement	Physical receipts, membership card	Centres are cashless
💌 Mail	Variable, depending on the post	Original receipts, completed claim form	Ensure all required documents are enclosed
📍 HICAPS/HealthPoint	Instant at service point	Membership card	Available at participating providers only

How to Upgrade or Downgrade My Plan with St. Lukes Health

To upgrade or downgrade their plan, members can use the St Lukes Connect app website or visit a Customer Care Centre. The following steps can be followed to complete the process:

Log in to your account through the app or website.
Once logged in, navigate to the policy management section, typically labeled “Change Cover” or “Update Policy.”
Here, you can review available plans and choose either an upgrade for enhanced cover or a downgrade to a lower-cost option.
When upgrading, note that waiting periods apply for new benefits not previously included in your cover. However, no additional waiting periods are required for downgrades or switching to an equivalent level of cover if the necessary waiting periods have already been served under your current plan.

Once you have selected your new plan, confirm your changes (reviewing your details and updating payment preferences). After confirming, submit the changes to finalize the update.

How do I add a Beneficiary to St. Lukes Health?

Members can add eligible dependents, such as children, spouses, or partners, to their health insurance policies with St. Lukes Health.

To add a dependent to your policy, access your account through the St Lukes Connect app or website. Once logged in, locate the section labeled “Add Dependent” under the policy management options. Then, provide the required information, including the dependent’s full name, date of birth, and relationship to the policyholder.

Attach proof of eligibility, including:

Birth certificates for children.
Marriage certificates for spouses.
Proof of de facto relationships (if applicable).

Review all details and submit the request. St. Lukes Health will process the addition and notify you upon completion.

Eligibility Criteria

Children

Cover extends up to 23 years of age.
Cover may continue beyond 23 if the child is in full-time education and financially dependent on the policyholder.

Spouse or Partner

Legally married spouses are eligible.
De facto partners may qualify with documentation verifying the relationship.

Other Dependents

Financial dependence is required for eligibility (e.g., elderly parents or disabled family members).
Proof of financial dependency might be necessary, such as bank statements or affidavits.

How to Submit a Compliment or Complaint with St. Lukes Health

Members can provide feedback through the St Lukes Connect app, website, phone, email, or by mail. To submit feedback via the app, go to the ‘Feedback’ section and follow the prompts. On the website, visit the ‘Contact Us’ page and complete the online feedback form.

Alternatively, you can call customer service at 1800 123 456, providing your policy number for follow-up. Email feedback can be sent to [email protected], including your full name, contact details, and a detailed message. For postal submissions, send your feedback to St Lukes Health, Customer Service Department, 123 Health Street, Wellness City, HC 12345. Finally, members can visit a local office; use the office locator on the website to find the nearest branch and bring your policy details.

How to Switch My Health Insurance to St. Lukes Health

If you have health insurance and you want to switch to St. Lukes Health, follow these steps:

Use St. Lukes Health’s online cover selector or consult their customer service team to find a policy that aligns with your needs. Personalized cover reviews are available to help you decide.
Start the switching process online, in-store, or over the phone. During this step, St. Lukes Health will guide you through submitting the necessary details (like your previous insurer’s information and membership records).
Submit proof of your existing cover, such as your membership card or transfer certificate, from your current insurer.
Lukes Health will contact your previous insurer to finalize the transfer. They will arrange for the cancellation of your old policy and confirm the start date of your new cover.

After the transfer is complete, St. Lukes Health will notify you of your updated policy details, including premium adjustments and cover start dates.

Key Requirements for Switching

🔎 Requirement	📌 Details
🗃️ Documentation	Membership records or transfer certificates from your current insurer
📍 Waiting Period Recognition	Previously served waiting periods are recognized for equivalent or lower cover levels
↪️ Cover Start	Cover begins immediately for equivalent cover levels, provided all waiting periods are met
💵 Payment Adjustments	Premiums will be recalculated based on your new policy and effective date

St. Lukes Health Regulation

St. Lukes Health operates within a framework of national regulatory requirements that ensures transparency, financial stability, and ethical practices in the private health insurance industry.

The fund complies with the Private Health Insurance Act 2007, which governs the operations of private health insurers across Australia and mandates that insurers offer clear policy information, maintain financial stability, and treat members fairly.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) oversees the financial operations of health funds, including St. Lukes Health, to ensure they meet stringent financial requirements.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) monitors the industry to prevent anti-competitive behavior and promote transparency in policy marketing and operations.
Lukes Health adheres to the Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct, which maintains ethical standards for health funds. This code emphasizes transparent communication, responsible marketing, and effective complaints handling.

Lukes Health operates under ABN 81 009 479 618 as part of its compliance obligations, ensuring it meets all statutory and reporting requirements.

St. Lukes Health Awards and Recognition

St. Lukes Health has received several notable awards, including the following:

🔎 Award Name	📌 Year	⭐ Reason for Recognition
❤️ Roy Morgan Customer Satisfaction Award	2023	Named Private Health Insurer of the Year and Private Health Insurer of the Year (Not-for-profit) for achieving an average customer satisfaction score of 93.6%
🧡 Canstar Outstanding Value Award	2023, 2024	Recognized for delivering exceptional value in hospital insurance, winning the Hospital Insurance: TAS category for two consecutive years
💛 Employer of Choice Recognition	Not specified	Acknowledged for fostering a supportive and employee-centred workplace culture

St. Lukes Health Customer Support and Contact Details

St. Lukes Health offers flexible and accessible ways for non-members and members to get the help they need. These methods are spread across phone, email, postal mail, and in-person support.

Contact Methods

Phone

General enquiries: 1300 651 988 (local call cost).
Available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays).

Email

Contact [email protected] for non-urgent inquiries.
Responses are typically provided within five business days.

Postal Address: PO Box 915, Launceston, TAS 7250

Customer Care Centres are located at the following addresses for In-Person assistance:

Launceston: 93 Cimitiere Street, Launceston, TAS 7250.
Burnie: 27 Cattley Street, Burnie, TAS 7320.
Devonport: 26 Rooke Street, Devonport, TAS 7310.
Hobart: 72 Elizabeth Street, Hobart, TAS 7000.
Kingston: Shop 28a Channel Court, Kingston, TAS 7050.
Rosny Park: 2/7 Bayfield Street, Rosny Park, TAS 7018.
Smithton: 18 King Street, Smithton, TAS 7330 (operational hours: 9:30 am to 4:00 pm; lunch break 11:45 am to 12:15 pm).

Agents:

Lukes Health agents are available at:
Deloraine: Deloraine Amcal Pharmacy, 64 Emu Bay Road, Deloraine, TAS 7304.
Moonah: Chemist Warehouse Moonah, 68-74 Main Road, Moonah, TAS 7009.
Queenstown: Queenstown Medical Union, 14-16 Orr Street, Queenstown, TAS 7467.

Overall, members can choose the most appropriate contact method based on their query.

St. Lukes Health Rebates and Discounts

St. Lukes Health members can benefit from financial incentives like the Australian Government Rebate on private health insurance, which adjusts based on income and age, and avoiding the Medicare Levy Surcharge for eligible policyholders. Below, we discuss these rebates and other financial considerations.

Australian Government Rebate

The Australian Government Rebate is an income-tested initiative to help reduce private health insurance premiums. Members can apply the rebate directly to their premiums or claim it during their tax return. The rebate amount varies by income and increases with age.

🔎 Income Range (Singles)	🏅 Base Tier ($0–$97,000)	🥇 Tier 1 ($97,001–$113,000)	🥈 Tier 2 ($113,001–$151,000)	🥉 Tier 3 ($151,001+)
1️⃣ Rebate for Under 65s	24.61%	16.41%	8.20%	0%
2️⃣ Rebate for Ages 65–69	28.71%	20.51%	12.30%	0%
3️⃣ Rebate for Ages 70+	32.81%	24.61%	16.41%	0%

Note that families have higher income thresholds from $194,000 for the base tier, which increases in increments.

Lifetime Health Cover (LHC) Loading

Lifetime Health Cover (LHC) is a government initiative that applies a loading fee to hospital cover premiums for individuals who delay purchasing private health insurance after age 31. The loading increases by 2% every year after 31, up to a maximum of 70%.

Key Considerations of LHC

To avoid LHC, members must purchase hospital cover by July 1, following their 31st birthday.
The loading only applies to hospital cover, not extras.
Special exemptions exist for new migrants, military members, and veterans.

Medicare Levy Surcharge

The Medicare Levy Surcharge applies to high-income earners who do not have private hospital cover. This surcharge ranges from 1% to 1.5% of taxable income, depending on income level.

Adjusting Your Rebate

Members can update their rebate tier yearly to align with their expected income levels. This adjustment ensures accurate rebate application and reduces the likelihood of discrepancies at tax time.

St. Lukes Health Additional Health Services and Products

Beyond health insurance, St. Lukes Health has a few services, products, programs, and benefits for members and the overall community. These services focus on preventative care, wellness initiatives, and specialized health support.

Gap-Free Preventative Dental

Members with extra cover can access 100% coverage for eligible preventative dental services when visiting a St Lukes Dental Practice. This eliminates out-of-pocket expenses for routine dental care.

St. Lukes Wellness Hubs

Located in Launceston and Hobart, these hubs offer community-focused activities such as yoga, nutrition classes, and a run club. The hubs also host events and workshops designed to inspire healthier lifestyles.

Health Navigation Service

A free service available to both members and the broader Tasmanian community, this initiative helps individuals find the healthcare services they need to make it easy to access appropriate care.

Health Programs

St. Lukes Health supports wellness through targeted programs, including:

Healthy Heart Program:

A pilot study addressing heart disease risks in partnership with the Healthy Heart Network.

Osteoarthritis Program:

An alternative to joint replacement surgery, combining physiotherapy, exercise, and education for eligible members.

Spinal Pilot Program:

Focused on reducing pain and improving mobility for members with lumbar spine conditions.

Wellbeing Platform

An online resource offering guided programs, on-demand workouts, and wellness advice through videos, podcasts, and articles. Accessible via mobile or desktop, this platform provides practical tools for daily health management.

Nourish Baby Program

This program is ideal for expectant and new parents by offering expert-led courses on antenatal care, childbirth, and early parenting, with support extending into the toddler years.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Family-friendly policies are available and waive excess for child dependents	Limited app ratings
Health Navigation Service available	Exclusions in lower-tier plans for advanced treatments
Gap-free preventative dental through St Lukes Dental Practices for eligible services	Waiting periods apply for new benefits when upgrading the cover
Not-for-profit model with profits reinvested into member benefits	Certain cosmetic and elective surgeries are excluded
National cover across all states and territories in Australia	High premiums for top-tier plans like Gold Hospital 300
Multiple health programs are available, including the Healthy Heart and Osteoarthritis pilot programs	Limited digital claims submission for specific non-participating providers
Recognized with awards like Canstar’s Outstanding Value Award	No in-app support for troubleshooting technical issues during claim submissions

In Conclusion

St. Lukes Health is a community-focused, not-for-profit health insurer that reinvests in member services and promotes public health. Its emphasis on preventative care, like Gap Free Preventative Dental and the Healthy Heart Program, shows a strong commitment to improving health outcomes. St. Lukes has earned recognition for customer satisfaction, including the Roy Morgan and Canstar awards, and offers family-friendly benefits like no excess for child dependants.

However, the St Lukes Connect app has mixed reviews, and lower-tier plans have exclusions, especially for advanced surgeries. Despite these limitations, St. Lukes remains a solid choice for those valuing preventative health and community support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does St. Lukes Health cover prenatal and post-natal care?

St. Lukes Health offers specific hospital plans covering maternity and post-natal care.

What awards has St. Lukes Health received?

St. Lukes Health has earned the Roy Morgan Customer Satisfaction Award for Private Health Insurer of the Year, along with the Canstar Outstanding Value Award for Hospital Insurance in Tasmania.

Are preventative health treatments covered by St. Lukes Health plans?

Yes, extras and combination plans are available and cover preventative care like dental treatments and access to wellness programs.

Does St. Lukes Health offer tools for handling health claims?

Yes, members can manage their claims using the St Lukes Connect app or in person at customer service centers.

What rebates are available to St. Lukes Health members?

Eligible members can apply for the Australian Government Rebate on private health insurance. Rates are based on income levels and the policyholder’s age.

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