Founded over 65 years ago, to support defence personnel and their families, Defence Health provides health and travel insurance to more than 300,000 members. This includes World War II veterans and people transitioning into civilian life.
Defence Health is not-for-profit, so premiums are diverted back to the business to benefit members. It’s also a restricted fund, and you’ll need to have a connection to the Australian Defence Force to be eligible to join.
Eligible members can choose from five hospital plans, with a basic no-frills policy for the budget-conscious, through to a top tier extensive premium Gold plan.
Members also have access to health and wellbeing services, and the MyBaby program for new parents.
Nobody chooses to go to hospital. But when you do, appropriate hospital cover will help you get the treatment you need, where and when you want it. It also helps to pay the bills, as fees for hospital rooms and specialists can add up.
Think about what services you’re likely to need, in line with your budget. If you earn over $90,000, you could avoid paying the Medicare Levy Surcharge.
Defence Health offers a choice of plans for members, from two budget covers, through to a Gold plan that covers almost everything. There’s also a Silver and Silver plus plan, with different benefits to suit your needs.
All hospital plans include unlimited emergency ambulance trips to hospital, including air and sea services.
From dental, to optical, to chiro and more, extras insurance helps cover the bills for routine treatments with rebates of up to 100%. Simply work out what you need and what you’re prepared to pay.
Defence Health has three extras plans to choose from. There’s basic cover if you’re on
a budget, through to a comprehensive plan that covers just about everything.
To stop people signing up, claiming, then cancelling their health insurance, all insurers apply waiting periods. Generally, the more expensive the treatment, the longer you’ll wait. But keep an eye out for special deals with waiting periods reduced or waived.
Along with a broad range of hospital and extra covers, Defence Health offers members
a range of support programs.
This includes:
Claim on the spot through the HICAPS payment system at your provider. You can also claim through the Defence Health mobile claiming app, through Online Member Services, or by email, mail or fax.
Defence Health has agreements with most private hospitals and day clinics across Australia. When comparing policies, it’s worth checking if your local hospitals and clinics are covered.
In 2019, Defence Health had just 1.1% of all health insurance fund complaints, reflecting their awards for customer service
Yes, Defence Health is a restricted fund. That means there are limitations on who can apply.
Defence Health offers cover to:
You can only switch to Defence Health if you’re eligible to join the fund and you’ll need to speak to them directly.
Defence Health isn’t on our panel, but we’re confident we can get you a great deal on your health insurance if you’re looking to switch health insurance or aren’t eligible for Defence Health. Click here to get started.
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