Comparing extras cover: your questions answered
What is extras cover and what does it include?
Also known as ancillary cover or extras cover, extras insurance can help reduce the cost of everyday healthcare services including things like dental check-ups, physio appointments and glasses or contacts. These services are generally not covered by Medicare.
What are the benefits of extras cover?
Extras insurance can be helpful because Medicare generally doesn’t fully cover many everyday services, so without Extras cover you would usually need to pay the full cost yourself. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, or regularly use services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, dental or remedial massage, Extras cover can help you claim benefits towards these costs.
Can I purchase HBF extras cover only?
Yes. With HBF, you can purchase extras cover on its own. Extras insurance helps cover some or all of the costs for everyday healthcare services including things like dental check-ups, physio appointments and glasses or contacts. These services are generally not covered by Medicare.
What are the waiting periods on extras cover?
Waiting periods for extras vary between health funds, but with HBF most services have a two-month waiting period, while more high-cost services (like major dental) have a waiting period of 12 months or more.
What does extras insurance cover?
The specific extras services you're covered for depends on your health fund, level of cover and the specific policy you choose. Here are some examples of common services extras insurance can cover:
- Dental treatment — this includes preventative dental, general restorative dental, major dental and implants, and orthodontics
- Physiotherapy
- Optical - glasses and contact lenses
- Chiropractic treatment
- Podiatry
How does extras cover compare to hospital cover?
Extras insurance helps you claim benefits towards the cost of everyday health services, like dental check-ups, physiotherapy and optical (glasses or contact lenses). Hospital insurance, on the other hand, helps cover some of the costs when you’re admitted to hospital, including things like doctors’ fees, accommodation and theatre costs.
How do I compare extras cover to find the best value?
Compare our range of extras cover options on this page. We make it easier by showing what services are included, restricted or excluded for each level of cover, so you can see what’s right for your needs. From more budget friendly options like Smart Start Extras to higher levels of cover like Top 70, which lets you claim a higher percentage back on a wider range of services, there are options to suit how often you use extras services.
Is it cheaper to get combined hospital and extras cover?
Not necessarily. The cost will depend on the cover you choose. However, having a combined policy can be more convenient, as your payments, claims and cover are all managed under one policy.
Canstar’s Most Outstanding Value Extras Cover 2023 – 2025 in WA
