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Health Insurance for Couples

Select the level of health insurance for couples cover you need to compare and get a quote.
Choose from extras only cover, hospital cover or combined cover
If you have different health needs to your partner (for example one has pre-existing health conditions and needs Gold-tier hospital cover), an individual policy for each person can be cheaper
Waiting limits apply – anywhere from 2 months to 12 months
Choose from extras only cover, hospital cover or combined cover
If you have different health needs to your partner (for example one has pre-existing health conditions and needs Gold-tier hospital cover), an individual policy for each person can be cheaper
Waiting limits apply – anywhere from 2 months to 12 months
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Are you deciding if couples health insurance is really worth it? Here’s everything you need to know before you make a decision on your health cover.

Are you and your partner thinking about getting private health insurance but not sure if it's really worth it? We get it! Making informed decisions about your health and finances is important, and you don't want to end up wasting your hard-earned money. That's why we're here to help.

Couples health insurance can offer you both flexibility, a range of options, and that much-needed peace of mind. But let's be real, it's crucial to make sure it fits your unique needs and budget.

In Australia, the cost of a couples health insurance policy typically falls somewhere between $1000 and $5000 per year. That's no small amount. So, it's smart to gather all the necessary information before jumping into any decisions regarding your health coverage.

Whether you're just starting your research or you're ready to take the plunge, we've got your back. We'll provide you with the insights and guidance you need to figure out if couples health insurance is the perfect fit for you and your partner.

Understanding the Different Levels of Cover for Couples Health Insurance

This is where you can really start to decide what’s important to you as a couple, what you want out of health insurance, and how much you’d like to budget for.

There are only 3 possible combinations with your health insurance:

Hospital only cover
Extras only cover
Combined hospital and extras cover

1. HOSPITAL ONLY COVER

Hospital only cover is designed to pay benefits toward the cost of your treatment in hospital. There are only 4 levels of hospital cover available to Australians: Basic, Bronze, Silver, and Gold health insurance, each covering a different number of clinical categories and hospital treatments.

In short, the higher the level of cover you get as a couple, the more procedures you will both be covered for.

Hospital cover also means you can avoid long public hospital waiting lists by being treated in a private hospital. That way you have the freedom to decide:

  • Who you are treated by: some couples may want a surgeon recommended by their doctor, family, or friend
  • Where you are treated: access to a private hospital close to home and a more comfortable environment can reduce worry
  • When you are treated: On average, waiting times are usually shorter in the private system so you don’t have to live with discomfort for as long

When a procedure is “covered”, that means 100% of the cost (minus any excess) of your hospital visit is paid by your health fund. This includes everything from accommodation, food, theatre fees, medication, and general services.

And just in case you were wondering, having hospital cover before you turn 31 means you won’t pay the annual Lifetime Health Cover Loading (LHC loading).

PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET ABOUT WAITING PERIODS

Waiting periods serve an important purpose in the Australian health insurance system. They are in place to prevent people from joining a health insurer, making immediate claims, and then cancelling their policy afterwards. Such behavior, often referred to as "hit-and-run," would have a negative impact on health premiums and the quality of healthcare services in our country.

When considering hospital cover, it is crucial to understand the concept of "pre-existing conditions." This ensures that you don't waste time and money by taking out a new policy only to discover that your current condition is not covered.

A pre-existing condition refers to any ailment, illness, or condition for which you had signs or symptoms during the six months preceding the commencement of your health insurance policy with hospital cover.

If you decide to take out health insurance, it's important to give your new fund enough time to determine if your condition is considered pre-existing. It is advisable to check well in advance of any hospitalization to ensure that you will be covered.

Keep in mind that pre-existing conditions typically have a waiting period of 12 months for health insurers.

2. EXTRAS ONLY COVER

It's important to keep in mind that waiting periods for major dental work are typically 12 months, while for general dental it's 2 months. Similarly, most other extras services mentioned earlier will also have a 2-month waiting period before you can start accessing the associated benefits.

When it comes to couples, extras cover is often where you can make significant savings while enjoying services that offer real benefits. Whether it's getting a fresh pair of prescription glasses, indulging in a therapeutic remedial massage, or simply maintaining good dental hygiene, extras cover can provide valuable support.

When you use extras services, your health fund usually contributes to your overall costs in one of two ways:

  • As a percentage proportion of the fee charged by the provider (e.g., 65% back for a General Dental consultation)
  • As a fixed dollar per visit (e.g., $40 per Remedial Massage visit)

People often say that “extras is the cover you’ll actually use”, whereas hospital cover is there “just in case”.

REMEMBER TO CHECK YOUR TOTAL ANNUAL LIMIT ON EXTRAS

If you do take out extras on your couples health insurance, always find out what the total annual limit is on your cover. This is the maximum amount you will be allowed to claim for certain extras services per financial year (July 1st - June 30th). Once you go over an annual limit for a particular service or treatment, your fund will no longer contribute to it - meaning you will pay the full cost.

If you’re unsure or just want to clarify a specific detail about extras only cover, call a health insurer directly and get an expert to talk you through the finer points.

3. COMBINED HOSPITALS & EXTRAS COVER

Taking out hospital and extras cover is called combined cover, which is very popular with couples. You can decide on different levels of cover for each and then mix and match.

Perhaps you’ve found yourself using extras services a bit more lately and want comprehensive cover, which you would like to combine with basic hospital cover.

It’s important to remember that health insurers won’t allow one partner to be on top level for hospital while the other partner is on basic. The same goes for your extras cover. You’ll both be on the same level for hospital and extras if you decide to take out couples health cover.

Most online services will provide a breakdown of your weekly or monthly costs for each. That way you can go up and down on each level of cover to suit your budget.

The Right Health Insurance Couples Cover Depends On Your Stage of Life

Every couple has their unique needs and preferences, and when it comes to finding the right cover of health insurance, it's no different. If you're exploring the idea of couples health insurance, it's important to find options that align with your current situation and priorities.

When considering couples health insurance, it's important to focus on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some scenarios that may resonate with you:

  • You're a young couple both in great health and primarily seeking coverage for basic essentials, such as ambulance cover for couples.
  • You're planning to start a family in the near future and want the flexibility to add maternity services (like obstetrics) and coverage for your growing family, so you’ll want a family policy.
  • Both of you are currently career-focused and looking for comprehensive health insurance that provides a wide range of benefits and a good extras policy.
  • One of you is managing a specific health condition and wants to ensure it's covered by the health insurance policy.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a tailored couples health insurance plan that suits your individual circumstances. You shouldn't have to pay for coverage that you won't use or need. By exploring different options, you can ensure that the policy you choose aligns with your specific requirements.

PSST - PLANNING A FAMILY AS A COUPLE BUT NOT SURE EXACTLY WHEN?

Many couples who are considering starting a family will have health at the forefront of their minds. The comfort and peace of mind you get with private health cover for such an important part of your lives can be worth it.

Most health funds will have a 12 month waiting period before they allow you to claim benefits for pregnancy cover. This includes specialized services such as:

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Prenatal and / or Antenatal Classes Prenatal and / or Antenatal Classes
Fertility Treatments (IVF) Fertility Treatments (IVF)

So if you want to access the private system for your pregnancy and birth, you’ll need to plan well in advance.

SEE THE OPTIONS FOR HEALTH INSURANCE FOR COUPLES

If you're ready to explore your options and see what's available, our user-friendly comparison tool is here to assist you. It's an easy way to get started on a quote and discover the various couples health insurance plans that suit your needs.

Our comparison tool will quickly show you a range of options from health funds. Simply mix and match what you need from hospital cover and / or extras, and then leave out what’s not important. Easy!

Why Take Out Private Health Insurance in Australia?

While all Australians have access to the public health system, having private health insurance allows you to have more options and control over your healthcare. Private health insurance can provide access to private hospitals, which often offer shorter waiting periods for elective surgeries and other procedures.

Whether you're looking for comprehensive coverage for physiotherapy, chiropractic, and other therapies, avoiding the Medicare Levy Surcharge, or simply seeking peace of mind, private health cover can be incredibly valuable.

Did you know? Currently, a record 14.42 million Australians (that's around 55 percent of the population!) have some form of private health insurance!

It's worth mentioning that private health insurance can also provide financial peace of mind. By having the right level of cover, you can avoid hefty out-of-pocket expenses and have greater control over your healthcare expenses.

However, it's essential to assess your specific needs as a couple and choose a policy that aligns with your requirements. Remember, private health insurance is a personal decision, and it's important to carefully review your options and compare different health funds.

So, as you navigate the world of private health insurance, remember to prioritize what matters most to you as a couple and find the right cover that suits your unique needs. Whether you're in New South Wales (NSW), Queensland (QLD), or anywhere else in Australia, it's all about securing the peace of mind and healthcare options that give you confidence in your health journey.

WHAT’S NEXT WHEN DECIDING ON HEALTH INSURANCE FOR COUPLES?

Couples health cover can provide valuable support even when you feel perfectly healthy. It's not just about being prepared for unexpected health issues, but also about enjoying benefits that enhance your overall well-being as a couple. From discounted gym memberships to rehabilitation for sports injuries, there are options that cater to your specific needs.

The best part is that finding the right couples health cover is quick and easy. In just a few minutes, you can explore a variety of options tailored to your needs.

Our user-friendly comparison tool will assist you every step of the way, ensuring that you understand all the policy options available to you. Find your perfect couples cover below.

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If you have any questions or queries with your single health insurance, we have friendly staff who are all health insurance experts. You can call one of our team on 1300 806 119

FAQS

Does couples insurance cover extras like natural therapies, physiotherapy services, or dental check-ups?

Couples insurance policies may cover preventative extras like natural therapies, physiotherapy, and dental check-ups. However, the extent of coverage can vary depending on the specific policy and insurer. It's important to review the policy details to understand the benefits and any limitations.

What is the Australian Government Rebate, and does it apply to couples insurance?

The Australian Government Rebate is a subsidy provided to help individuals and families afford private health insurance. It can apply to couples insurance policies, offering a percentage-based subsidy on the cost of premiums. The rebate amount depends on factors such as age, income, and the policy type.

Does couples insurance cover emergency ambulance services?

Couples insurance policies may include coverage for emergency ambulance services - typically if you take out hospital insurance. It’s important to review the policy details to understand the level of coverage provided and any limitations or exclusions that may apply.

What hospital services are typically covered by couples insurance?

Couples insurance policies typically cover a range of hospital services. These may include inpatient care, surgery, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and rehabilitation. However, the extent of coverage can vary between policies, so it's important to review the policy documents to understand the specific hospital services covered under your plan.

What is private hospital cover, and why is it important for couples?

Private hospital cover refers to insurance coverage that allows you to receive treatment as a private patient in a private hospital. This type of cover provides you and your partner with greater control and choice over your healthcare, such as the ability to choose your doctor, shorter waiting times, and access to private hospital facilities.