20 Jun What You Should Know About Private Health Insurance And Myotherapy
There were a number of health insurance reforms that came into play in April of this year. Unfortunately, ‘natural therapies’ such as the Alexander technique, aromatherapy, Bowen therapy, Buteyko, Feldenkrais, Western herbalism, homeopathy, iridology, kinesiology, naturopathy, Pilates, reflexology, Rolfing, Shiatsu, tai chi, and yoga were no longer eligible for private health insurance rebates.
However, myotherapy and remedial massage are still eligible for private health insurance rebates. If you want to take advantage of the benefits of either of these therapies, we have some information to help you find the right health insurance and myotherapy practitioner.
What changes were made to health insurance?
There were a number of changes made to private health insurance from April 1st 2019. The reforms included:
- The introduction of four new tiers to private hospital cover – Gold, Silver, Bronze and Basic
- Discounts for young people aged between 18 and 29
- Higher excess in exchange for lower premiums
- Travel and accommodation benefits in the event of long-distance travel for treatment
- Better mental health treatment options
- The removal of natural therapies as part of insurer extras cover
- More improvements and accessibility for the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman to investigate complaints and issues
If you already have private health insurance, you should have received information from your insurer on the specific changes related to your policy.
Why were these changes introduced?
According to the Department of Health, many Australians didn’t fully understand private health insurance, what was covered and how it could truly benefit them and their family. This is why these reforms came into effect. The idea was to ensure that private health insurance was simple and easy to understand. The changes are meant to help you be able to choose an appropriate level of cover and policy to benefit you and your family.
What are the four tiers for hospital cover?
Private hospital cover is now sectioned into four new tiers – Gold, Bronze, Silver and Basic.
The basic cover must cover a minimum of three categories: Rehabilitation, psychiatric care and palliative care.
Bronze tier includes additional categories such as joint reconstruction, ear, nose and throat care, gynaecology and male reproductive system issues.
Silver tier policies include additional categories such as heart and vascular treatments and back, neck and spine therapies.
Gold tier is the highest tier of hospital cover and can include additional categories such as cataracts, joint replacement surgery and pregnancy.birth therapy and care.
(Image via Dept of Health)
What health funds offer myotherapy and remedial massage benefits?
There are a number of different private health funds that offer myotherapy and remedial massage benefits. If you’re unsure of whether or not your policy includes myotherapy, it’s always best to check with them directly. If you’re looking for a new policy, you can see a list of private health funds here that include myotherapy and remedial massage within their policies.
Where can I find a myotherapist?
Remember, it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced myotherapist who can help you with your specific needs. Not all ailments and pain issues are treated the same. It’s best to choose a myotherapist with the relevant experience and qualifications to help you.
You can find an appropriate provider via the Myotherapy Association website. Simply enter your suburb and you can find a list of myotherapists near you.
If you’re unsure about whether your health cover can be accepted or whether you’re covered, it’s always best to check with your health insurance provider and ask them about your policy. Or, if you have any questions regarding myotherapy or your private health insurance inclusions, have a chat with Unwind Myotherapy today. We have experienced and qualified myotherapists who can assist you with your therapy needs.
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