Health

The Importance of Comparing Private Health Insurance In today’s ever-changing health insurance landscape, staying informed and making well-informed decisions about your health insurance is crucial. With the upcoming private health insurance reforms and the constant introduction of new policies, it’s more important than ever to regularly review and compare your health insurance options. Here’s why you should choose CheckYourBill to compare the private health insurance market: 1. Comprehensive Comparison Tools User-Friendly Interface At CheckYourBill, we provide a comprehensive, user-friendly platform that simplifies the process of comparing private health insurance policies. Our advanced comparison tools allow you to evaluate various policies side by side, helping you understand the differences in coverage, benefits, and costs. With an intuitive interface, you can easily navigate through the available options and make informed decisions. Detailed Policy Information Our platform offers detailed information on each policy, including coverage details, exclusions, waiting periods, and out-of-pocket costs. This transparency ensures that you have all the necessary information to choose a policy that best suits your needs and budget. 2. Expert Advice and Personalised Recommendations Access to Experienced Advisers CheckYourBill provides access to a team of experienced advisers who are well-versed in the intricacies of the private health insurance market. Whether you have questions about specific policies, need clarification on the upcoming reforms, or require assistance in understanding your current coverage, our advisers are here to help. Tailored Recommendations Using advanced algorithms and your input, CheckYourBill offers personalised recommendations tailored to your health care needs and financial situation. This personalised approach ensures that you find a health insurance policy that not only fits your budget but also provides the coverage you require. 3. Stay Ahead of Policy Changes Up-to-Date Information With the private health insurance reforms and frequent policy updates, staying informed can be challenging. CheckYourBill ensures that you have access to the most current and accurate information. Our platform is continuously updated with the latest data, so you can be confident that you are making decisions based on the most recent information. Proactive Alerts and Reminders We provide proactive alerts and reminders about policy renewals, upcoming changes, and new product launches. This ensures that you never miss out on important updates and can take timely action to adjust your coverage as needed. 4. Simplified Switching Process Hassle-Free Transition Switching health insurance policies can be a daunting task, but CheckYourBill simplifies the process. We handle the paperwork and coordination with your new and old health funds, making the transition smooth and hassle-free. Plus, we ensure that you don’t have to re-serve waiting periods if you switch to a policy with the same or lower level of cover. Financial Transparency At CheckYourBill, we believe in complete financial transparency. Our platform clearly outlines the costs associated with switching policies, including any potential savings. This allows you to make informed decisions without any hidden surprises. 5. Enhanced Trust and Reliability Customer-Centric Approach We understand that many consumers do not trust their health fund to act in their best interest. At CheckYourBill, our customer-centric approach prioritises your needs and preferences. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to make the best choices for your health and financial well-being. Independent and Unbiased Service CheckYourBill is an independent platform that is not tied to any specific health fund. This independence ensures that our comparisons and recommendations are unbiased and solely focused on providing you with the best options available in the market. 6. Comprehensive Health Insurance Solutions All-Inclusive Health Insurance Coverage Our platform covers a wide range of health insurance products, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined policies. This comprehensive coverage ensures that you can find a policy that meets all your health care needs, from routine dental visits to major surgeries. Customizable Options CheckYourBill allows you to customise your search based on specific criteria, such as preferred doctors, hospitals, and additional benefits. This customization ensures that you can find a policy that aligns with your unique health care requirements and preferences. Conclusion Choosing the right Private Health Insurance policy is a crucial decision that impacts your health and financial well-being. With the upcoming reforms and the dynamic nature of the health insurance market, staying informed and proactive is more important than ever. CheckYourBill offers a comprehensive, user-friendly platform that simplifies the process of comparing Private Health Insurance policies. With access to detailed policy information, expert advice, personalised recommendations, and a hassle-free switching process, CheckYourBill is your trusted partner in navigating the Private Health Insurance market. Don’t leave your health insurance to chance. Visit CheckYourBill today to explore your options, compare policies, and make informed decisions with confidence.   Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

Holding an eligible private hospital cover policy can help you avoid paying the Medicare Levy Surcharge tax. Here’s what you need to know about the health insurance tax and how it affects you. What is the Medicare Levy Surcharge? All Australians contribute 1% of their income to support Medicare and our public health system through a tax called the Medicare Levy. If you earn over certain income thresholds for the 2023-2024 financial year, you will have to pay an additional tax called the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS). However, you can avoid this surcharge if you hold at least a basic private hospital cover policy during the financial year. For every day you have private hospital cover, you avoid the MLS for that day. Understanding the Medicare Levy Surcharge The Australian Government provides a health insurance rebate to help cover your health insurance premiums. However, higher-earning Australians may also be taxed an additional 1% to 1.5% of their taxable income in the form of the Medicare Levy Surcharge. This surcharge encourages higher-income earners to take out private hospital cover or contribute more towards Medicare. Income Thresholds for the Medicare Levy Surcharge Use the following table to determine your income tier and potential surcharge rate based on your single or combined gross annual income: Medicare Levy Surcharge Rates The Medicare Levy Surcharge rates based on your income tier are as follows: Holding a private hospital cover policy can help you avoid this additional tax. Key Points to Consider Income Thresholds: If you earn below the listed income thresholds, you won’t have to pay the additional surcharge and don’t need to take out a private hospital cover policy for tax purposes. Partial Coverage: If you only held private hospital cover for part of the financial year, you will avoid the MLS for those covered days. Tax Statement: Your health fund will send you a tax statement at the end of the financial year to give to your accountant or the ATO. If you submit your own tax returns and are unsure about the MLS, seek financial advice. Private Health Insurance Government Rebate The Australian Government contributes towards your private health insurance costs through a means-tested rebate based on your single or household income. This rebate can be deducted from your premiums or claimed as a lump sum at tax time. How the Rebate Works The rebate on health insurance is generally subtracted from your premiums, though some people opt to pay the full amount and claim the rebate at tax time. The rebate increases when you turn 65 and again when you turn 70, helping retirees and pensioners afford top hospital cover. Income Thresholds for Government Rebate The income thresholds for the government rebate are as follows: Rebate Percentages by Age and Income Tier Things You Need to Know Income Thresholds: Based on your total taxable income for the current financial year. Consult your accountant if unsure. Incorrect Rebate Claims: Adjustments will be made on your tax return if you claimed the incorrect rebate. Family Thresholds: Income thresholds for single parents and families increase by $1,500 per child after the first child. Tax Statement: Your private health fund will send you a letter detailing your total paid premiums and rebated amounts for the financial year. Get Expert Advice with CheckYourBill Services At CheckYourBill Services, we provide clear and straightforward advice to help you navigate your Private Health insurance options. Our cooperative of health funds offers fair rebates and great value, with over 20 years of collective experience in the Australian market. Contact us today to ensure you have the best health insurance coverage for your needs and to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge in 2024.   Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

Staying on the same health insurance policy for years can be detrimental to both you and the market. For many Australians, comparing health insurance and switching to a new policy seems perplexing and downright scary. A significant number of the 13.5 million insured Australians have been with the same health fund for over ten years. But is sticking with the same policy and insurer really a smart investment? The Importance of Portability in Health Insurance The health insurance market is driven by a crucial rule embedded in the Private Health Insurance Act 2007: Portability. This rule applies to all private health insurers in Australia and states that when someone switches to a new health insurance policy, they don’t have to re-serve hospital and extras waiting periods for services they are already covered for. Why Staying on the Same Policy Can Be Costly Many products in the market are of poor value, especially those that have been around for a long time. The Problem with Closed Health Insurance Products Many people are on closed policies that are no longer available for new customers. Health funds technically can’t kick you off these policies until you cancel them, leading many to remain on outdated health insurance products. These old products often inflate in price every April 1st, but the benefits and rebates stay the same. Closed products were often designed for an older market, and as the cost of health services like dental, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and massage increases, the benefits of these old policies remain stagnant. Each year, the policy cost goes up, medical treatment costs go up, but the benefits stay the same. The Release of New Health Insurance Products Every two to three years, most private health insurers release new products designed to meet the needs of an ever-changing market. These products have new names, new combinations of benefits, and, most importantly, higher benefits that match the inflation of health costs. It would make more sense for health funds to increase their extras rebates in line with policy cost increases. For example, if the April 1st rate rise for extras is 4.3%, then the extras rebates should increase by 4.3% as well. However, this rarely happens. Instead, many funds leave members on outdated policies until the customer indicates they are unhappy or may switch. Portability and the ‘Devil You Know’ Mentality The ‘Devil you know’ mentality is one of the most detrimental approaches to health insurance, particularly among seniors. Many people are afraid to switch from the health fund they have been with for a long time. While recognition offers comfort and security, it’s crucial to ensure you are with the most reputable and best health fund available. Private Health Insurance has a rule called Community Rating, which ensures all Australians are offered the same health insurance rates regardless of pre-existing health conditions. Coupled with the rule of Portability, it becomes clear that the health insurance market is designed for people to compare health insurance often. Benefits of Comparing Health Insurance When you compare health insurance, you stimulate the market and encourage insurers to remain competitive. Here are some benefits of comparing and switching health insurance policies: You encourage health funds to create better value products with higher benefits. You initiate contact with your previous health fund’s retention team. You encourage your previous health fund to be more competitive. You ensure you are always on an up-to-date health policy with benefits that match your changing needs. Get Expert Advice with CheckYourBill Services For a personalised hospital product tier comparison, speak with an advisor at CheckYourBill Services. Our clients receive expert advice with impartial comparisons, helping you achieve your goals with minimal effort. Avoid the confusion caused by health insurers and acquire optimal coverage today. This guide aims to help you understand the differences between Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Basic hospital cover, ensuring you choose the best insurance for your needs. For more information, visit CheckYourBill Services and speak with one of our expert advisors. Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

Are you confused by terms like “top cover” and “fully covered” thrown around by insurance companies? Do you feel stuck with your current policy, believing your Gold cover is superior to your friend’s Bronze cover? Let’s debunk some myths and explore the real value of Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Basic hospital cover to help you determine the best level for your needs. Understanding Private Health Insurance Tiers As of April 1st, 2020, all Australian private health insurers are required to classify hospital cover into four tiers: Basic, Bronze, Silver, and Gold. This classification system, mandated by the Australian Government, ensures clarity and helps consumers choose the cover that best suits their needs. Here’s a breakdown of each tier: Basic Hospital Cover Best for: Minimal health concerns, tax purposesCoverage: Psychiatric Hospital, Rehabilitation, Palliative careNote: Does not cover private hospital services, making it less useful for broader medical care needs. Bronze Hospital Cover Best for: Essential medical servicesCoverage: Male Reproductive System, Hernia and Appendix, Skin, Cancer treatments (Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, and Immunotherapy)Note: More comprehensive than Basic but may lack some critical services for specific health issues Silver Hospital Cover Best for: People over 40 or those with heart issuesCoverage: Heart and Vascular System, Lungs and Chest, Back, Neck, and SpineNote: Offers more services than Bronze but might not be as comprehensive as Gold for extensive care needs. Gold Hospital Cover Best for: Comprehensive medical careCoverage: All clinical categories, including private psychiatric hospital services, pregnancy and birth coverage, weight loss surgeryNote: The most expensive tier, often covering more than what many people need. Debunking Common Misconceptions About Gold Cover It’s a common belief that Gold cover is always the best choice. However, the truth is, out-of-pocket expenses for the same procedure with the same insurer are the same across Bronze, Silver, and Gold policies. While Gold cover includes treatments like Cataracts, Joint Replacements, and Dialysis, these services can also be included in Basic, Bronze, or Silver policies by some insurers. Choosing the Right Hospital Cover for Your Needs Choosing the right policy can be challenging. Here are some key points to help you make an informed decision: Gold cover is not always the best choice. Out-of-pocket expenses are the same for the same procedure across all tiers. Insurers can include Gold-level services in Basic, Bronze, or Silver policies. Consult an expert to find the best policy for your specific needs. Notable Exceptions and Policies to Consider Basic: AHM Basic Boost: $1000 for optical, ideal for those under 30 or needing tax-purpose cover. Bronze: HCF Hospital Bronze Plus: High level of Bronze hospital cover at an affordable price. Silver: NIB Mid Hospital – Silver Plus: Great range of services, especially for those over 65. Gold: Mildura Health 5 Star Hospital: Comprehensive coverage at a price similar to Silver covers. St. Lukes: Cheapest overall Gold policy. Speak with a Health Insurance Advisor For a personalised hospital product tier comparison, speak with an advisor at CheckYourBill Services. Our clients receive expert advice with impartial comparisons, helping you achieve your goals with minimal effort. Avoid the confusion caused by health insurers and acquire optimal coverage today. This guide aims to help you understand the differences between Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Basic hospital cover, ensuring you choose the best insurance for your needs. For more information, visit CheckYourBill Services and speak with one of our expert advisors. Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

  Your body goes through some incredible changes during pregnancy. Here’s how private health insurance, particularly with extras cover, can help you with some self-care essentials. Pregnancy is an exciting time, and there are a lot of changes happening in your body. That can mean some of your health and wellbeing needs change too, and you may find you need a little extra support to keep you feeling healthy, comfortable, and energised. Here are a few steps you can take for a healthy, happy pregnancy, and some of the ways extras cover can help support your wellbeing along the way. 1. Healthy Eating Healthy eating is always important for your health and wellbeing, and if you’re pregnant, it’s crucial for you and your baby. As your baby grows, aim to eat a wide variety of healthy foods to ensure you’re both getting the vitamins and minerals you need each day. A few things to focus on include: Fruits and vegetables: Aim to eat a variety of types and colours, with two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables each day. Grains (especially wholegrains): Breads, rice, oats, pasta, and quinoa. Protein: Lean meats, fish, eggs, and beans/legumes. Dairy: Milk, yogurt, and hard cheese products, preferably reduced-fat varieties. Iron: Found in lean meats, eggs, nuts, and tofu. Folate: Leafy greens, vegetables, legumes, wholegrains, and nuts. Folate and iodine supplements are typically recommended during pregnancy. How can health insurance help? Extras cover can include: – Diet and nutrition: A dietitian can provide personalised nutrition advice to ensure you and your baby are getting the most from your diet. 2. Exercise Staying active during pregnancy is important for both your body and mind. However, changes in your body during pregnancy may require some exercises to be modified. It’s important to always listen to your body. For the best health benefits, aim for a mix of: Cardio exercises: Walking, fitness classes, swimming, or cycling to boost cardiorespiratory fitness. Strengthening exercises: Resistance training, yoga, or Pilates to condition your muscles, which may help reduce back and pelvic pain and prepare your body for giving birth. How can health insurance help? Extras cover can include: Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can help improve your strength and mobility and manage aches and pains. Exercise physiology: An exercise physiologist can provide personalised exercise advice for pregnancy. 3. Mental Health and Wellbeing Preparing to welcome a baby can come with a range of emotions – excitement, fear, joy, stress, and anxiety. If your feelings become difficult to cope with, it’s important to seek help. It’s common for both men and women to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety while expecting a baby. How can health insurance help? Extras cover can include: Psychology: A psychologist can offer support, guidance, and strategies to help manage your mental health and wellbeing. 4. Aches and Pains Aches and pains during pregnancy are common, particularly in the back, neck, shoulders, and abdominal muscles. Stretching, gentle exercise, and pregnancy massage can help. How can health insurance help? Extras cover can include: Physiotherapy: A physio can treat aches and pains and show you exercises and stretches that can help. Remedial massage: A qualified therapist can soothe muscle and joint pain and improve mood and sleep. Chiropractic and osteopathy: These treatments can help reduce low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy. Natural therapies: Acupuncture and other natural therapies can soothe aches and pains and promote wellbeing. 5. Pelvic Floor As your baby grows, the weight can put pressure on your pelvic floor muscles, leading to stress incontinence. Strengthening your pelvic floor during pregnancy can help reduce this and avoid stress incontinence after birth. How can health insurance help? Extras cover can include: Physiotherapy: A physio can teach you exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, including clinical Pilates sessions. 6. Dental Care Continuing to care for your teeth and gums during pregnancy is essential. Hormonal changes can affect your gums, causing irritation, inflammation, and tenderness. How can health insurance help? Extras cover can include: Dental: Benefits for dental check-ups, scale and cleans, and treatments to keep your smile fresh and healthy. Extras Cover You Can Feel Good About With great benefits for physio, dietetics, remedial massage, and more, extras cover can help support your wellbeing. For more information on health insurance and private health insurance options, check out Flipr services. The right health insurance plan can support your health goals and provide peace of mind. Want to know more? If you’re looking for additional support to achieve your health goals beyond what your current Private Health Insurance policy offers, use our CheckYourBill platform to compare your current fund with other policies that better suit your needs. This comparison could potentially save you money while helping you improve your health, making 2024 your best year yet. If you haven’t already got Private Health Insurance, now is an excellent time to consider getting a policy to support your health aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to run a marathon or lose weight, having the right Private Health Insurance can significantly impact your journey. Start your journey today.  Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

Forget “happy wife, happy life,” it’s all about the tummy!  The human gastrointestinal tract, often referred to as the “gut,” is home to about 100 trillion bacteria plus other microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiota. The mix of these microorganisms determines how well we digest our food, absorb nutrients, fight intestinal infections, and much more.  The gut also affects digestive problems we might experience after eating — like wind, constipation, and diarrhea, especially for people with functional gut disorders or diseases such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Research is now starting to show how gut health can influence other health conditions such as mental health conditions, heart disease, and diabetes. Your gut microbiota is affected by a range of factors, including: Stress Illness Weight Overuse of Antibiotics Diet Here are the top five foods for improving gut health: 1. Wholegrains Wholegrains, including wheat, oats, rice, barley, and rye, comprise all three layers of the grain. They are a rich source of carbohydrates and protein, containing more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than refined cereal foods like white bread. This includes folate, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, iron, vitamin E, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus.  Incorporating wholegrains into your diet can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like coronary heart disease, colon cancer, diabetes, and diverticular disease, as well as support digestive health by preventing constipation.  Sources of wholegrains include brown or wild rice, oats, barley, and bread fortified with wholegrains. 2. Fruits and Vegetables There’s a reason fruits and vegetables are continuously recommended for inclusion in your diet – they’re deliciously good for you!  Naturally high in dietary fiber, fruits and vegetables are also high in vitamins, minerals, polyphenols (a compound found in plants including flavonoids and phenolic acid), and oligosaccharides (a type of carbohydrate that acts as a prebiotic). These are all associated with a decreased risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, and, of course, an improvement in gut health.  When choosing vegetables, try to keep things varied and your plate colorful. Include leafy green and cruciferous vegetables (such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts); legumes/pulses (such as chickpeas, kidney beans, and lentils); and a variety of fresh fruits (choose whole fruits rather than juices). 3. Resistant Starch Resistant starch “resists” being broken down in the small intestine, moving unchanged into your large intestine. This resistant starch is then fermented in the large intestine and can produce short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate.  Renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, butyrate plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health by nourishing the cells lining the colon and promoting a balanced gut microbiome. Butyrate has been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, reduced abdominal fat, and improved sleep.  Foods high in resistant starch include oats, barley, pulses/legumes (e.g., kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils), nuts and seeds, green bananas and plantains, cooked and cooled potatoes, and cooked and cooled rice or pasta. *Make sure to cool food in the fridge and eat within 2-3 days. 4. Fermented Foods Fermented foods aren’t just delicious – they’re great for your gut too! The distinctive tang comes from the breakdown of sugars and starches by beneficial bacteria and yeast, resulting in the creation of probiotics, including strains like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces. Once eaten, these probiotics colonise the gut, adding diversity to your gut microbiota. This intricate community of microorganisms plays a pivotal role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and even mood regulation.  Some delicious fermented foods that are great additions to any diet include pot set or kefir yoghurt, kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, natto, miso, and sourdough bread. 5. Eat Plenty of Fish Fish is rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for our overall health. Unlike other fats that our bodies can synthesise internally, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids must be obtained from dietary sources.  Omega-3 increases bacteria that produce anti-inflammatory chemicals in the gut and have been linked to protecting against diseases like bowel cancer and depression.  Aim to have fish two to three times per week and omega-3 enriched foods or drinks (such as eggs, bread, and milk). If you’re vegan or vegetarian, plant sources of omega-3 include chia seeds, Brussels sprouts, and walnuts.  Remember, before implementing any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian. The right Health Insurance plan can support your health goals and provide peace of mind. For more information on Private Health Insurance options, check out CheckYourBill services. Want to know more? If you’re looking for additional support to achieve your health goals beyond what your current Private Health Insurance policy offers, use our CheckYourBill platform to compare your current fund with other policies that better suit your needs. This comparison could potentially save you money while helping you improve your health, making 2024 your best year yet. If you haven’t already got Private Health Insurance, now is an excellent time to consider getting a policy to support your health aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to run a marathon or lose weight, having the right Private Health Insurance can significantly impact your journey. Start your journey today.  Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

When it comes to making healthy lifestyle changes, whether it’s exercising more, drinking less, or starting to practice mindfulness, it’s never as simple as ‘just doing it.’ Here are effective strategies for creating a healthier lifestyle and, more importantly, how to stick to it: 1. Connect Your Lifestyle Change to an Existing Habit Our days are full of habits, from brushing our teeth to showering, feeding pets, and changing clothes after work. Use these existing habits as your cue to practice new behaviors. For example, your morning cup of coffee could be your reminder to do a 10-minute meditation or practice a new language. When something becomes a habit, it’s a familiar behavior and doesn’t use up much energy or face much resistance. Knitting it together with an activity you already do can reduce stress and difficulty. 2. Schedule Your Lifestyle Change In Your calendar can be a great tool for planning and ensuring you allocate enough time for your goals. Put a block of time aside in your calendar to make sure it’s realistic. For instance, if your aim is to jog twice a week, scheduling specific days and times and mentally committing to them is more effective than waiting for the right moment. 3. Think About Your ‘Why’ Focusing on why this change is important to you is a great way to stay motivated. Identify if your motivation is extrinsic (based on what others might think or expect) or intrinsic (coming from a genuine desire within yourself). Intrinsic motivation, linked to your values or something you can develop excitement around, is more effective. 4. Link It to a Bigger Goal or Dream If you can’t find a strong intrinsic ‘why,’ link your change to a bigger goal. For example, if you’re trying to cook at home instead of getting takeout and have a dream to travel, focus on the money you’re saving for that trip. Visualising your goal can help keep you motivated. 5. Focus on One Change at a Time It can be tempting to make big, sweeping lifestyle changes, but choose one thing at a time. When trying something new, it takes up a lot of resources. The more new tasks we take on that aren’t yet automated, the more we ask of ourselves. 6. Be Realistic and Create Space for It Consider what else is going on in your life and what other commitments need your time and energy. If you feel there’s no time for this new activity, be realistic. Remove some other demands or wait until there is more time and space 7. Have a Flexible Mindset If you miss a day or find it challenging to stick to your new change, be kind to yourself. You don’t have to do things perfectly to make progress. Instead of seeing it as a failure, ask yourself what you can learn from it. Use gentleness and positivity with yourself. When to Seek Help If you’ve tried all these tips and still find it difficult to make changes, the reason may be deeper than a lack of self-discipline. Low motivation might come from low mood, or your subconscious might not be ready for the change. You may benefit from support and guidance, such as from a psychologist. Remember, no matter your age or circumstances, it’s never too late to make a positive lifestyle change and reap the associated benefits. As the saying goes, the best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago, and the second-best time to plant a tree is now. The right health insurance can support your health goals and provide peace of mind. If you’re looking to enhance your health with the right Private Health Insurance, consider comparing policies through CheckYourBill services.  Want to know more? If you’re looking for additional support to achieve your health goals beyond what your current Private Health Insurance policy offers, use our CheckYourBill platform to compare your current fund with other policies that better suit your needs. This comparison could potentially save you money while helping you improve your health, making 2024 your best year yet. If you haven’t already got Private Health Insurance, now is an excellent time to consider getting a policy to support your health aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to run a marathon or lose weight, having the right Private Health Insurance can significantly impact your journey. Start your journey today.  Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

An out-of-pocket cost refers to the amount you need to pay for a medical appointment or treatment. Often termed a ‘gap payment’ or ‘patient payment,’ your out-of-pocket cost is the difference between what your doctor, allied health professional, or hospital charges for a service and what Medicare or your private health insurer covers for that service. When you receive medical treatment, any gap between the charges from your healthcare provider and what Medicare or your private health insurer pays for that service becomes your responsibility. This is the fundamental concept of out-of-pocket costs. Understanding how out-of-pocket costs work can help you better manage your healthcare expenses. Use CheckYourBill to find a Private Health Insurance policy that minimizes these costs while meeting your needs. The out-of-pocket cost you have to pay vary depending on: How much your doctor or health services provider charges you Whether you have treatment inside or outside a hospital Whether your treatment is covered by Medicare and how much Medicare pays for it If you are treated in a hospital, whether you are a public or private patient Whether you have Private Health Insurance for the treatment you are receiving and the level of that cover. Private Health Insurance can only cover doctors fees for treatment in hospital. Before you receive treatment, ask your doctor, health care provider and your hospital about any out-of-pocket costs you may have to pay. Otherwise, you may pay significant out-of-pocket costs for your treatment. Steve pays $500 in out-of-pocket costs Steve was admitted to hospital as a private patient. His doctor charged $1,500 for their service. The Medical Benefit Schedule (MBS) fee for the service was $1,000. Medicare paid $750 (75%) and Steve’s health insurer paid $250 (25%). This left a gap of $500 for Steve to pay as an out-of-pocket cost. Before agreeing to treatment, ask your doctor for: The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item numbers for their services, An estimate of your out-of-pocket costs, Whether other doctors or health care providers are involved in your care and how you can get an estimate of their fees. Always request any estimates in writing.  Once you have the MBS item numbers, your health insurer can tell you exactly how much it will pay under your Hospital Cover for those treatments. Want to know more? If you’re looking for additional support to achieve your health goals beyond what your current Private Health Insurance policy offers, use our CheckYourBill platform to compare your current fund with other policies that better suit your needs. This comparison could potentially save you money while helping you improve your health, making 2024 your best year yet. If you haven’t already got Private Health Insurance, now is an excellent time to consider getting a policy to support your health aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to run a marathon or lose weight, having the right Private Health Insurance can significantly impact your journey. Start your journey today.  Related Blog Get Started Apply Now

If you’ve ever faced a prolonged illness or injury, you understand that health truly equals wealth. Being unwell not only restricts your lifestyle but also can be costly. With GP visits averaging $74.66 and the Medicare rebate covering only $39.75, and Australians visiting a GP 5.6 times a year on average, maintaining good health is a worthwhile investment of your time, energy, and money. Healthy choices can lead to significant financial savings. A Victorian study found that families adhering to the Australian Dietary Guidelines can save $150 a fortnight on groceries. Additionally, if you smoke a pack of cigarettes daily, quitting could save you over $10,000 a year, according to the Australian Government. Did you know that staying healthy might also lower your Private Health Insurance costs? And since Private Health Insurance can help you stay healthy, it’s a win-win situation. Use CheckYourBill to compare policies and find one that best supports your health and financial goals. Earn rewards by staying active and well Being active is one of the best things you can do for your health, giving you benefits such as better sleep and improved mood. In the longer term, exercising regularly is proven to reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes. So it makes sense for Health Insurers to support their members in staying healthy because better health means fewer Insurance claims. In fact, some insurers will even reward you for it.  If you’re exercising at the gym as a form of treatment for a health condition or rehabilitation, most insurers – including Bupa, NIB, Medibank, AHM and HCF – will reimburse your gym costs, up to a certain limit (provided you have the required level of cover). You’ll need to fill out a form with your insurer and get it signed off by a relevant healthcare professional, such as a GP, physiotherapist or exercise physiologist. Ask your insurer about their incentives.  Some insurers also offer specialised programs to reward you for moving your body regularly. For example, AIA has AIA Vitality, where members earn points for healthy actions such as going to the gym or taking 7,500 steps a day, which add up to shopping rewards or a discount on your premium. Medibank offers Live Better, where you can complete set health activities linked to physical activity, diet and emotional health, and collect points that add up to gift cards. Remember: always read the fine print before you sign up to health programs, as there may be joining fees, and the rewards might only add up in small increments.   Insurer programs for health conditions Some Health Insurers offer support for members living with certain health conditions. For example, HCF offers a Healthy Weight For Life program to members living with osteoarthritis who have a BMI of 28 and over, which includes nutrition and fitness advice.  NIB provides a Mental Health Care Support Program to members who’ve been hospitalised for mental health conditions, with a mental health nurse giving one-on-one support via phone.   Make sure you read the fine print and chat to your insurer about what’s involved before you sign up. Saving money on health Insurance If you’re healthy you might opt for a lower tier of Hospital Cover, then upgrade to a higher tier as you get older or as your health needs change. Having a lower tier means you’ll pay lower premiums but will only be able to claim on a limited range of clinical categories. Keep in mind that if you do need a procedure or treatment unexpectedly, you’ll have to upgrade your cover then serve a waiting period before claiming.  Speaking of health Insurance costs, if your insurer doesn’t reward you for being healthy, consider changing to a new policy. Our CheckYourBill Calculator makes it easy to compare your existing policy (and unlike other Private Health Insurance comparison sites, we show you every insurer and every single policy available on the market).  Compare your existing health Insurance using CheckYourBill.  Want to know more? If you’re looking for additional support to achieve your health goals beyond what your current Private Health Insurance policy offers, use our CheckYourBill platform to compare your current fund with other policies that better suit your needs. This comparison could potentially save you money while helping you improve your health, making 2024 your best year yet. If you haven’t already got Private Health Insurance, now is an excellent time to consider getting a policy to support your health aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to run a marathon or lose weight, having the right Private Health Insurance can significantly impact your journey. Start your journey today.  Related Blog Get Started Apply Now *All content and media found on the CheckYourBill Blog are created and published online for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call emergency services immediately.

Every year, many Australians set New Year’s resolutions to enhance their lives in various ways, and 2024 is no different. Some focus on improving their wellbeing, while others prioritize financial fitness or other personal goals. If you’ve made resolutions to improve your health or financial situation this year, reviewing your Private Health Insurance could be beneficial. For those without a policy, now might be the perfect time to consider getting one. At CheckYourBill, we help you explore Private Health Insurance options that align with your resolutions. Whether you’re aiming for better health coverage or financial savings, starting with a review of your insurance needs is a smart step forward. Click here to consult with our Private Health Insurance experts today   Can Health Insurance help you get healthy? Some Private Health insurers support your health goals by reimbursing part of your exercise expenses or offering incentives for staying physically active. Depending on your coverage level, if you’re using a gym for rehabilitation or treatment of a health condition, your insurer may cover a portion of your gym membership fees. Typically, you’ll need approval from a healthcare professional using a form provided by your insurer. It’s advisable to contact your insurer directly to understand their specific process. Furthermore, some insurers provide rewards programs that allow you to earn points for making healthy choices. These points can often be redeemed for lower premiums or gift cards in the future. Before enrolling in such programs, it’s essential to research any joining fees or terms and conditions associated with them. Read more about health insurer incentives for staying healthy Can Health Insurance help you lose weight? One of the most common New Year resolutions is to lose weight, and it’s worth knowing that your Private Health insurer can assist you in achieving this goal. Many insurers provide weight loss programs that include coaching and support services, especially for individuals managing health conditions like osteoporosis. To access these programs, you typically need to have appropriate coverage and meet the insurer’s eligibility criteria. To discover what weight loss support options are available to you, visit the health management programs section on your insurer’s website or contact them directly. It’s essential to review all the details and terms before enrolling in any program. Learn more.. Can Health Insurance help you get financially fit? Whether your financial goal is to save money or reduce your spending, rethinking your Private Health Insurance policy can help you get financially fit.   Having the right health cover will make a big difference to your budget through lower premiums and reduced healthcare costs during the year, so it’s worth reviewing your policy on a regular basis.   The first step is to consider what you need from your health cover. If you already have a policy, your needs may have changed since you first took out the policy. For example, if you’re not planning to have any more children, you don’t need cover that includes Pregnancy and Birth any longer, so downgrading your policy to a lower tier could save you money. Here are some factors to consider when reviewing your existing policy:  What is your budget?  Who needs cover (including family members)?  Do you have existing health conditions, or is it likely your health needs will change in the near future?   Do you need both Hospital and Extras Cover, or just one?  Specifically, what Extras Cover do you need?   When considering cost, you need to look beyond just premiums and think about total healthcare costs. For example, you may need to spend more on premiums to cover health conditions that are currently costing you a lot of money but you’ll end up saving more by having these conditions covered.  The next step is to compare your policy, new or existing, with other similar policies. There are 50 insurers, including open and restricted. You’re busy and you don’t have time to check the policies from each insurer, so thankfully CheckYourBill makes it quick and easy to compare among Health Funds. Want to know more? If you’re looking for additional support to achieve your health goals beyond what your current Private Health Insurance policy offers, use our CheckYourBill platform to compare your current fund with other policies that better suit your needs. This comparison could potentially save you money while helping you improve your health, making 2024 your best year yet. If you haven’t already got Private Health Insurance, now is an excellent time to consider getting a policy to support your health aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to run a marathon or lose weight, having the right Private Health Insurance can significantly impact your journey. Start your journey today.  Related Blog Get Started Apply Now