CHOICE experts have reviewed health insurance extras policies from over 40 insurers to find the best policies for people on a budget.
"Extras health insurance covers costs for health services outside of going to hospital. Budget extras health insurance policies are worth considering if you're only after a couple of dentist visits a year and some physio," says Bird.
"Don't buy extras insurance if you aren't prepared to put the effort in to claim. If you keep paying your premium and don't claim it back, it's the same as that gym membership you never use: a waste of money," says CHOICE health insurance expert, Jodi Bird.
The policies below offer the best level of cover for general dental and physio for less than $15 a month, including the full 25% government rebate for a single person.
The best extras health insurance policies for $15 or less:
AHM Black 50 Saver
Price: $14 per month (single person with 25% rebate; $19 without the rebate)
Recommended in: All states
Frank Basic Extras
Price: $14 per month (single person with 25% rebate; $19 without the rebate)
Recommended in: All states
HCF Starter Extras
Price: $8–14 per month (single person with 25% rebate; $11–18 without the rebate)
Recommended in: NSW, ACT, NT, Tas, WA
HCF Starter Extras (with optical)
Price: $11–14 per month (single person with 25% rebate; $14–18 without the rebate)
Recommended in: NT, Tas
HBF Basic Extras
Price: $13–14 per month (single person with 25% rebate; $17–19 without the rebate)
Recommended in: NT, Tas
Bupa Freedom 50
Price: $14 per month (single person with 25% rebate; $19 without the rebate)
Recommended in: Tas
"Remember, extras insurance only covers you for any out of hospital costs you may incur. You'll only get your money's worth if you're claiming back more than what you spend on your policy," says Bird.
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