Depending on your situation, health insurance can be a proactive tool for your physical and financial well-being.
Here in New Zealand, we can rely on a solid public system, but there can still be significant waiting times for certain treatments. Having appropriate health cover can ensure more immediate care, providing peace of mind. But with so many options available, choosing the right plan for your needs can feel overwhelming.
So, here’s some guidance and insights to get you started.
Assess your needs and circumstances
Your health is as unique as your fingerprint. Start by taking a comprehensive look at your health history and needs. Think about how often you’ve needed medical attention in the past, any ongoing conditions you have, and if there are specific treatments or specialists you would like to have access to in the future should you need to.
These reflections can help you determine the level of coverage you may need, and whether you might have pre-existing conditions to disclose.
But you don’t have to do this alone; discussing these points with an adviser can give you a clearer picture of which plans might align with your individual situation.
Understand the different plan types
Health insurance options vary, ranging from the basic plans covering only hospital or specialist treatments, to more extensive policies that include general practitioner visits, non-Pharmac funded treatments, and even some alternative therapies. Gaining clarity on what each plan type entails will help you identify which aligns most closely with your health priorities. As always, don’t hesitate to contact us: we can help you make an informed decision.
Consider the costs
It’s essential that your insurance premiums fit within your budget, also keeping in mind that costs will increase as you age. Also, make sure you delve into details like the policy’s excess (the amount you’ll have to pay upfront each time you claim, with the remainder being covered by the insurer), and any caps or limits on claims.
The higher the excess, the lower the premiums (all other things being equal). So, it’s about striking a balance between manageable monthly costs and comprehensive coverage. Once more, we can guide you through this and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Review additional benefits
Here’s another area where we can assist. Nowadays, health insurance isn’t just about covering sickness; it’s also about promoting wellness. Different providers offer different extra benefits like free or discounted health checks. Some plans include benefits like sessions with physiotherapists, and even wellness and health promotion programmes.
Think about which of these benefits would resonate with your lifestyle. We can help you spotlight plans that are not just about reactive care, but also proactive health management.
We’re in your corner
If you’re looking at exploring your health insurance options, get in touch. We’re just a phone call away and happy to answer all your questions, big and small.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.
