Blog article

4 signs you should update your health cover

By HBF
6 MINUTES
1 January 2023
Parents measuring height of growing toddler against wall
Is it time to update your health cover? Here are 4 signs that mean you probably should.

Or you could cut to the chase and try our 3-minute cover recommendation tool

Our lives are constantly changing and it's all too easy to let your health insurance fall out of step with your needs.

That's especially the case when it comes to common claims like seeing the dentist, getting glasses or contacts, or booking a physio after tweaking your back, for example.

So, should you be updating your health cover? If any of these situations describes you, then the answer is probably 'yes'!


Update your health cover if you've hit the limits of your current plan

Maxed out your dental? Hit the cap on visits to the psychologist? This is a sign that you might want to upgrade. Increasing your coverage could give you more back when you claim, or offer a higher annual limit so you can get covered for more check-ups and appointments.

Update your health cover if you've started a family

Life gets hectic when you throw a few kids into the mix. Think about what's coming up for you and whether you're covered.

For example:

Don't just think about your needs in the near future. Ask yourself what coverage your family might need in two or three years' time and add it to your health insurance now. (You might be very glad you did.)

Update your health cover if you've started at the gym or play a sport

If you've become more (or less) active, you might find yourself booking different doctor's appointments. It could be time to update your health cover.

Update your health cover if it's been a while

It's also a good idea to at least check over your health cover if it has been a while since you took it out or last updated it. Here are some things to consider:

OK, so how do I update my health cover?

You can adjust your cover online, over the phone or in a branch.

If you're doing it online, read up on your current cover and compare your options. You'll be making the decision off your own bat, so look carefully at not just the price, but the level of cover you'll get – and the fine print too.

If you're changing your cover over the phone or in a branch, you can bring your thoughts or notes with you and talk through the best new level of cover for you.

^Annual limits and waiting periods apply. Percentage back benefits are payable for services, programs and providers approved by HBF, when provider charges in accordance with the Member Plus schedule fee. Excludes Basic Extras and closed products.