Since 1984, the Australian government has offered citizens and permanent residents Medicare public health coverage. The government-sponsored Medicare plan offers generous coverage to care for a large proportion of basic medical costs. The public health plan covers many basic services and costs and helps many Aussies access medical care. However, with public coverage, things like where you are treated, medical providers, and how long it takes to treat non-emergency conditions are out of your control. Among the other drawbacks of the public health plan is the exclusion of significant dental coverage.
While the public health system provides bulk-billed dentists, they are usually only available with a concession card, and the wait time can be months long. Australia’s public health care is primarily funded through a tax or “Medicare levy” placed on citizens as part of their basic tax payments. As a result, the plan can only cover a limited amount of services for citizens. Without dental coverage, many Aussies have to turn to private health insurance to get dental services. Studies show that almost a quarter of Australia’s population puts off dental work because of the cost.
The most important benefit of private health insurance in Australia is the choice of hospital and doctor. With private insurance, you can also avoid long wait times for procedures. Extras insurance covers out-of-hospital treatments like physiotherapy, prescription glasses, and other services. Another important benefit of extras cover is dental care. Quality dental coverage is an essential health benefit that should be strongly considered when looking at private health insurance. Let’s take a look at some reasons why you need good dental coverage.
Routine Dental Care
Dental cover is split into general dental services and major dental procedures. Each category has its own payout limits, depending on specific providers. General dental care usually includes routine check-ups, fillings, cleanings, and X-rays. The average check-up can range from $200-$300. Dental coverage, check-ups, and other routine services can be covered up to 50 or 60 percent.
The best way to avoid more costly dental procedures in the future is to seek regular dental care and check-ups. Brushing twice a day and flossing will help you maintain good oral hygiene on a daily basis. Most dentists also recommend receiving regular cleanings and preventive care every six months. With good dental coverage, you can seek routine dental care and avoid major dental needs in the future.
Major Dental Benefits
Private dental insurance, like other coverages, is designed as a safety net to help cover large out-of-pocket expenses. If you need a crown, dental implant, root canal, or other major dental work, your costs would be significant. Dental benefits could help you cover out-of-pocket costs. While insurance companies usually cap the limits of their dental coverage, a health plan that includes dental benefits could still reduce your costs significantly for oral health treatment.
Major services include complex procedures that come with hefty costs. From orthodontic work and wisdom teeth removal to periodontics, there are many dental procedures that are very costly. Many of these procedures are essential for your dental health and overall health in general. If you don’t have adequate dental coverage, you could incur high costs. A good dental plan will save you money and help you get the major services you need.
If you are concerned about the cost of dental care, a quality dental insurance plan could be the solution. As part of your extras health plan, you could get low-cost access to preventive services and coverage for many major procedures. When looking for dental insurance, be sure to consider all of your options and weigh the monthly premiums. You can select the right plan that provides the coverage and services you require with some considerations.