What Overseas Visitor Health Insurance Covers Are out There Which Are Genuinely Good and Don't Rip People off

raisondetre on 22/06/2020 - 15:04

I am extremely disappointed in BUPA especially now - during these unprecedented times.

My Mum is on a 'suspended overseas visitor' cover after serving 9 months in Australia with only 3 months to go before she completes her 12 month waiting period.

She was due to travel in April but owing to COVID19 she could not come to Australia and when I contacted BUPA to extend her suspension further for another 9 months or more ( as I don't know when the international borders will reopen),they say that I have to pay a month extra to get that suspension extended as my mum has already reached the maximum suspension period. This sounds ridiculous.

Her inability to travel here is not in anyone's control but what is in control is how BUPA can change some of their rules and policies to support their valued customers. I keep thinking about what to do so that I don't lose her time that she has already served and move to a cover which is decent and don't try to rip people off especially during these difficult times.

Please suggest what covers out there are good for overseas visitors(e.g. Parents)?

Much appreciated.

Many Thanks

Financial

Comments

  • YesPleaseThankYou on 22/06/2020 - 15:14
    +1

    If you are on Twitter, you should discuss Bupa's actions and @ them. All insurers hate bad publicity.

    With your mum's permission, you could also raise a complaint with Bupa: https://www.bupa.com.au/health-insurance/understanding-your-…

    If unsuccessful, raise a complaint with the Commonwealth Ombudsman https://www.ombudsman.gov.au/How-we-can-help/private-health-…

    • raisondetre on 22/06/2020 - 16:14

      Thanks. I did that on Facebook and they initially deleted my post and then somehow addressed it but privately.
      I now need a twitter account :)

      I will certainly raise a complaint now with BUPA.

      • YesPleaseThankYou on 22/06/2020 - 16:19

        They can't delete your post on Twitter. Go ahead and outline your complaint. Mention to them that you will inform your friends and family and others in the community about Bupa's bad/unfair behaviour.

        If you make a direct complaint, make sure your mum provides permission as they won't be able to disclose your mum's details without that permission. Bupa may guide you about how your mum can do this.

        FYI, Bupa has the 2nd worst complaint statistics in the health insurance industry. It has many unhappy customers. See the annual reports on the Commonwealth Ombudsman website.

        Keep us updated!

    • dizzle on 22/06/2020 - 16:30
      +1

      I don't think it's much of an issue for the ombudsman. There is nothing they are doing that would be legally or contractually wrong. I don't even think this would be considered morally wrong. This is entirely about goodwill and customer service.

      It's not like the Gym memberships that some people still had to pay for while gyms were closed (I assume they eventually reversed that decision, but not sure). Bupa can still provide the service, it's the customer that wants it on hold.

      From the T&C you can do a max of 9 months suspension up to three times a year (and yes I understand that maths). OP wants an 18 months suspension, and I think 1 months payment is suitable for that. They may end up waiving it if you push it, but it's probably better being nice and ask for a supervisor than by complaining about your rights.

      • YesPleaseThankYou on 22/06/2020 - 16:34

        I tend to agree with your analysis and suggestions.

        It is about being flexible during these "unprecedented times". Bupa is certainly big enough to be able to come to the party.

        TBH, I didn't have time to research the T&Cs and wrote the above whilst doing my own research about an unrelated matter.

        • dizzle on 22/06/2020 - 17:19

          I understand that, but if they are not receiving anything for 18 months (including 7 months before this happened) are you really a customer?

          If he went in asking for a further three month suspension I think he would have more success. That brings it in line with what the majority think will be international travel (although I think it won't be until next year for some countries). Asking for another 9 months off the bat is unacceptable.

          As I mentioned I think 1 month pay to make it 18 month suspension is pretty fair even in these unprecedented times.

  • the4thzodiac on 05/07/2020 - 19:35

    OP, please keep me posted. I had a bad experience with Bupa. Didn't take it up any further, but I do not recommend Bupa to anyone anymore.

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join