Which Level of Health Cover is For You? Gold, Silver, Bronze or Basic?
As the April 1 health care changes looms, the biggest decision you’ll have to make is what type of cover you want. The four tier product change will affect the 55% of the population covered by private health insurance.
So which level of coverage is right for you? It all depends on what you need in your life. The change in health insurance is help consumers compare different hospital treatment products easily so you can shop around for a better deal.
BASIC: this cover includes rehabilitation, hospital psychiatric services and palliative care but does not generally cover cataracts, joint replacements and so on. Some insurers may choose to expand their basic cover to include such items but are not required to do.
BRONZE: this cover includes what is covered in Basic and also covers such items as eyes (not cataracts), ear, nose and throat, bone, joint and muscle (not joint replacement), hernia and appendix, treatments for cancer and pain management.
SILVER: this cover includes what is covered in Bronze and Silver and also covers heart and vascular system, back, neck and spine, and implantation of hearing devices.
GOLD: this is the comprehensive cover that includes cataract surgeries and joint replacements. Two of the more popular health needs for the over fifties.
Each health care package will have standard clinical categories that will be mandated as well as a set standard terms for medical treatments. This will give you greater transparency on what you are covered for.
While Basic and Bronzer cover are more affordable options, the Silver and Gold options could be a better option for those that are at different stages of life.
When it comes to your health and your health insurance, sit down with your current policy and go through it with a fine tooth comb. Cross out what you don’t need and find the package that suits you in the new tiers. And as always, compare and shop around to make sure you are getting the best deal.
Review Hospital Treatment Product Tiers HERE.
Any advice contained in this article is general in nature and does not take account of your particular objectives, personal circumstances or needs. If in doubt about your own situation you should seek appropriate advice.
