Question 1

When should I choose a family policy?

Accepted Answer

If you don’t have any dependants and you’re planning on starting a family, you can stay on your singles or couples policy until your baby is born. When your baby arrives, you can then transition to family health cover so everyone is covered on the same policy. Waiting periods for your baby may be waived if notified within 90 days of birth.

Question 2

Who is covered on a family policy?

Accepted Answer

On family cover, you, your partner and your kids are covered, regardless of how many children you have. Children must be added to your policy by contacting Bupa.

Question 3

When do my kids need to come off my cover?

Accepted Answer

Dependants can stay on your policy until age 32, subject to conditions such as not being married or in a de-facto relationship and, in some cases, studying full time. Additional conditions apply for non-students and Family Plus policies, and applications must be submitted each year for student dependants.

Question 4

How can I add someone to or remove someone from my family policy?

Accepted Answer

To update your policy due to changes in your family or relationship, contact Bupa by phone, online chat or in-store.

Question 5

When can we start claiming?

Accepted Answer

Claims can be made once waiting periods are served. If switching from another health fund, waiting periods already served may not need to be re-served if switching within 60 days to an equivalent or lower level of cover.

Question 6

Can I get pregnancy and birth cover with no waiting period?

Accepted Answer

No. Most health funds, including Bupa, apply a 12-month waiting period for pregnancy and birth cover.

Question 7

I’m thinking about changing health funds – how do I switch to Bupa?

Accepted Answer

Bupa will contact your previous fund, arrange a clearance certificate and handle the transfer process, including advising on any waiting periods that apply.

Question 8

What is a waiting period?

Accepted Answer

A waiting period is the time you need to wait before you can claim on new or upgraded cover. If switching from another fund, waiting periods already served may carry over.

Question 9

What is a limit?

Accepted Answer

A limit is the maximum amount you can claim for services over a set period. Types include annual, combined, flexible and lifetime limits.

Question 10

What is a Bupa recognised provider?

Accepted Answer

A recognised provider meets Bupa’s requirements and allows contributions towards treatment if the service is included in your cover.

Question 11

What is a Members First provider?

Accepted Answer

A Members First provider partners with Bupa to help reduce out-of-pocket costs and may offer benefits such as higher limits, discounts and on-the-spot claiming.

Question 12

What is a benefit?

Accepted Answer

A benefit is the amount you receive back when claiming for services included in your cover. Benefits vary by product and are outlined in product details and PHIS documents.

Family Health Insurance