Many International students don't understand this system and how it works in Australia. So we explain this health system.
International students have to have OHSC cover in Australia. But it can be darn expensive to pay for the things that you don't need. It can also be expensive to pay for doctor's visits and other things if you get sick without health cover. Most OHSC providers don't cover ambulance fees.
In Australia you don't have access to public health insurance. You do have private insurance only. International students don't have Medicare. The Swedish and Belgian students have their own insurance by their government so they don't need to spend the $500-$700 on OHSC
Extras
They are the things that you want, but don't need. I.e gym membership and weight loss sessions.
What is the gap fee?
The gap fee is the difference between what the provider can cover and what the doctor charges (i.e visiting fees) . As students you have to pay this fee. Gap fees can vary.
But you can make a claim afterwards; online, in person or by mail.
Which things are bulk billed?
Some doctors are members of your Health insurer so they will directly bulk bill the provider. Just hop on to the insurer's website and search for doctors in your area.
Some prescriptions are covered but these are just the bare essentials. Do check your policy.
Pre existing conditions and pregnancies are not usually covered by your OHSC. Do visit this website for more information.
If you have any complaints about your OHSC provider you can complain to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman. But try and resolve things first with your insurer.
Private Health Insurance Ombudsman details
Phone: 1800 640 695 (within Australia)
Email: Private Health Insurance Ombudsman
Visit the PHIO website.
 |
| Apple courtesy of freeclipart site |
International students have to have OHSC cover in Australia. But it can be darn expensive to pay for the things that you don't need. It can also be expensive to pay for doctor's visits and other things if you get sick without health cover. Most OHSC providers don't cover ambulance fees.
In Australia you don't have access to public health insurance. You do have private insurance only. International students don't have Medicare. The Swedish and Belgian students have their own insurance by their government so they don't need to spend the $500-$700 on OHSC
Extras
They are the things that you want, but don't need. I.e gym membership and weight loss sessions.
What is the gap fee?
The gap fee is the difference between what the provider can cover and what the doctor charges (i.e visiting fees) . As students you have to pay this fee. Gap fees can vary.
But you can make a claim afterwards; online, in person or by mail.
Which things are bulk billed?
Some doctors are members of your Health insurer so they will directly bulk bill the provider. Just hop on to the insurer's website and search for doctors in your area.
Some prescriptions are covered but these are just the bare essentials. Do check your policy.
Pre existing conditions and pregnancies are not usually covered by your OHSC. Do visit this website for more information.
If you have any complaints about your OHSC provider you can complain to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman. But try and resolve things first with your insurer.
Private Health Insurance Ombudsman details
Phone: 1800 640 695 (within Australia)
Email: Private Health Insurance Ombudsman
Visit the PHIO website.
No comments:
Post a Comment