Get private health insurance in Australia with Cigna Healthcare and let us take care of the hassle.
Australia has golden beaches, great weather, and new opportunities, all of which makes it very appealing for expats.
‘Down Under’ has one of the longest life expectancies in the world. This is partly down to their health system - Medicare. This is a public system providing free or low-cost service for citizens, as well as New Zealanders and those from countries with reciprocal agreements.
Australia’s healthcare system, known as Medicare, guarantees all citizens healthcare at a low, or no cost.Medicare’s funding comes from a mixture of sources.
Government inputs, private coverage and individual fees combine to cover the costs of medical treatment.
The system helps with the costs of hospital visits, medical treatments, scans, and imagery.
Some residents, depending on their personal circumstances, will also benefit from reduced prescription costs as part of the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS).
If you don’t fit into the above, you’ll be expected to foot the full price of healthcare during your time in the country. That’s where expat insurance in Australia can come in handy.
Pros and cons of using Australia's healthcare system
| Public | Private |
|---|---|
| Funded mostly by the government from tax. | Accessible to non-residents. |
| Free to use/low cost, also there are no payable premiums or excess. | Better choice of treatment options available. |
| Only accessible to people of set criteria. | Shorter waiting times. |
Getting private health insurance in Australia is essential if you don’t fit the requirements for Medicare. Non-residents and new arrivals will need to protect their health with comprehensive insurance coverage. If you’re here for study or are awaiting residency, you should consider protecting your health and finances from accidents and mishaps.
Expat coverage provides broader protection, including prescription medications, doctor visits and emergency services. You’ll also be able to access treatment faster and more efficiently than much of Australia’s public system.
It's essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of any international health insurance policy before purchasing to ensure that it meets your specific needs and provides adequate coverage for your situation in Australia.
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Yes, in some cases we may include cover for repatriation to your home country if your specific treatment or emergency needs cannot be catered for in Australia. However, Australia has one of the world’s leading healthcare services and covers most treatments.
The cost of health insurance will depend on your personal circumstances. Some elements, like your age, will alter the cost of your medical protection.
The standard of healthcare in Australia is one of the highest in the world. The World Health Organization ranks the country as the 32nd most efficient. It’s easier for those living in the inner city and built-up areas to access treatment than those in rural areas.