HCF Overseas Visitor Health Cover Review

HCF health insurance complaints

We looked at the 2023 ombudsman health insurance complaints. Here's how HCF stacked up:

• Proportionally, HCF had a high percentage complaints compared to the other big health funds.
• HCF ranked 4th worst for number of complaints compared to market share of funds with more than 0.5% market share.

HCF member retention

This chart shows the member retention for each health fund with a market share of at least 0.5%, according to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. A higher member retention percentage may suggest customers are happy with the service they're receiving; a lower percentage could mean customers aren't happy with the fund's service. HCF had the highest member retention (88%) followed by HBF (86%).

HCF OVHC frequently asked questions

• Are there any additional benefits?

  • Pet Insurance. HCF Pet Insurance, issued by The Hollard Insurance Company, is available at a 15% discount for HCF members.
  • 100% back on extras. HCF gives you up to 100% back on a range of extras treatments for eyes, teeth, muscles, backs, feet and hearing aids.
  • Dental and eyecare centres. HCF operates a network of dental and eyecare centres across metropolitan Sydney.
  • Healthy Weight for Life program. This 18-week program helps you reach your weight goals and maintain that healthy weight.

• What am I not covered for with HCF OVHC?

  There are certain situations when your HCF Overseas Visitors Health Cover policy will not provide protection. These include:

  • Ambulance transport by a provider not recognised by HCF
  • Ambulance transported where you are covered under another scheme, for example a state ambulance subscription service
  • Your claim is for a treatment specifically excluded from your policy
  • Your claim is for treatment received while you are serving a waiting period
  • You can recover the costs from a third party other than HCF, for example from workers' compensation insurance
  • It is for experimental treatments or treatment not deemed suitable by HCF
  • It is for goods or services that are delivered outside Australia, or for treatment that is not delivered face-to-face

  It's also worth pointing out that this policy is not available for visitors who hold a:

  • Student visa
  • Tourist visa
  • Retiree visa not listed above

  Finally, keep in mind that waiting periods will apply for certain treatments and procedures. For example, a 12-month waiting period before you can receive cover for the treatment of pre-existing conditions or pregnancy and birth-related services.

• How long will I need to wait to receive hospital treatment for a pre-existing condition?

  A 12-month waiting period applies to pre-existing conditions. Otherwise, there's no waiting period for services covered by Medicare. There's a 2-month waiting period for rehab, palliative care and psychiatric services.

• How can I apply for cover?

  You can apply for HCF Overseas Visitors Health Cover online, via email, by phoning HCF or by visiting a HCF branch.

• What excess options are available with HCF Overseas Visitors Health Cover?

  You can choose a $0 or $250 excess – the higher the excess you choose, the lower your premiums will be.

• How can I apply for cover?

  You can apply for HCF Overseas Visitors Health Cover online, via email, by phoning HCF or by visiting a HCF branch.

  Agreements are in place with Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden, the Netherlands, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom. Visit the Department of Human Services online for more information about these agreements.