Does Medicare cover ambulance costs?
It’s a common misconception that Medicare covers the cost of ambulance treatment and transport like many medical expenses. If you’ve found out the hard way, you’ll know that you cannot claim these expenses with Medicare.
Taking out Ambulance Cover only through a health fund
If you’ve identified that you need ambulance cover, you have a range of options to become protected.
You can take out a standalone ambulance policy of either emergency or comprehensive cover. The main advantage of choosing ambulance cover only is that it’s typically more affordable than combining it with a hospital or extras insurance policy. This is because the benefits are limited to ambulance only. Choosing an emergency ambulance cover may also reduce the costs further while giving you basic cover. That’s great for those on a tight budget who don’t qualify for concessions like students.
You could also choose to take out a hospital plan that includes ambulance cover providing you with a more comprehensive insurance policy. Alternatively, you may choose an extras policy that includes the cover of ambulance treatment and transportation. While consolidating the covers will cost more than a standalone ambulance policy, it will include a greater variety of benefits. It’s just up to you to decide how much cover you require and whether it’s worth the additional expense.
If you do choose the option of combining your ambulance cover with an existing or new hospital or extras package, remember to consider the level of cover. The level of ambulance cover will vary from fund to fund.
Taking out Ambulance Cover through a subscription
If you’re a resident of the Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia or Victoria, you’re entitled to take out your ambulance cover through a subscription with your state ambulance authority. Some health funds may reimburse you or pay in part or full, the cost of your annual subscription.
Alternatively, you have the option to take out the ambulance cover through a registered health fund.
What are the costs of not having Ambulance Cover?
Thinking of of going without ambulance cover? That’s up to you, but be sure you’re aware of potential ambulance costs before you decide.
The costs of ambulance services vary between different states and territories. Here are just some of the costs you may be up for if you require emergency ambulance assistance: