FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Will I need to serve waiting periods if I switch my level of excess on my hospital cover?

This will depend on whether you switch to a higher or lower excess.

Switching to a higher excess

No waiting periods will need to be served.

Switching to a lower excess

Waiting periods will apply when you reduce or remove your excess.

The length of waiting period will vary depending on the service. For example, HBF Bronze Hospital Plus’ waiting period for in-hospital treatment is two months; if you decrease your excess from $500 to $250, you will have to serve a two-month waiting period before your new level of excess will apply to in-hospital treatment services. If you need those services during your two-month waiting period, you will be required to pay your original $500 excess.

If you have a pre-existing condition at the time that you lower or remove your excess, you may need to serve a 12-month excess waiting period before your new level of excess will take effect.

Please note: Pre-existing waiting periods do not apply for Hospital psychiatric services, Rehabilitation or Palliative care.