I want to get a orthodontics procedure (braces) in the near future. Will joining with extras cover help much or will I just end up spending more than I'd eventually save?
Orthodontics Cover - Worth it?
Lsnowdude on 11/06/2013 - 16:49
Comments
I ran the numbers for my 3 kids that will need braces over the next 6 years.
If we diligently claim everything, hold off until waiting lists are over, then schedule claims so they fall in multiple years we end up getting back nearly as much as we would pay in premiums.
That means if we can make claims for other things we might end up ahead.
We've had private cover before and didn't really make claims, because things like reading glasses that I might possibly claim, are cheaper to buy online outright than to go to OPSM or specsavers and claim back 80%.
If you have a lot of healthcare costs otherwise, it is probably worth it, if not, I think it probably isn't.
If you want to run your own numbers, there is a list of every health care fund in Australia here:
http://www.privatehealth.gov.au/dynamic/healthfundlist.aspxI'd suggest you take a look at HBF, as it has no lifetime limit on orthodontic and GMF that has fairly high yearly limits.
Orthodontics usually has a waiting period of a year and with hcf the amount you can claim increases with each year you are with them to a lifetime maximum.
Treatment is cheaper with a dentist than an orthodontist usually.
Cheaper to travel to Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines) when the need arises if all you are going to be claiming is the orthodontics. If you are over 30, you need to consider the lifetime health loading (but relevant only for hospital cover).
True for filling crown bridge but braces need time span of a year of more and regular visit, thus not possible to do overseas
I can't help with the fund rebate info but just want to warn you that when the lifetime limit is reached the expenses continue. Adult son chews through his night-time retainers and is paying $95 a set for replacements. If the moulds get broken there is another cost.
good post~! im thinking the same, dude.
its unbelievable expensive (the cover, plus long waiting time), so atm i think not worthed.