5 features to look for when switching health insurance this year

Thinking about making the change from your current health insurer? We show you some of the things you should consider.

Even if you're not happy with your current health insurer, it can be tough to know what features to look for in a new one.

So today, we take a look at some features worth looking out for if you're thinking about making a switch.

1. Introductory offers

One of the advantages of switching to a new provider is that you may be able to score a great introductory offer.

This can make a significant difference to the overall cost of the policy, or even get you some useful extras.

Let's look at AIA Health as an example. Until March 30, if you sign up with AIA Health on an eligible policy, you could receive up to 12 weeks for free.

Additionally, the normal 2-6 waiting period for access to a range of services will also be waived.

This can help keep costs down, while still providing you with access to the healthcare services that you need.

Find out more about AIA Health's introductory offer for March 2024

2. Health and wellbeing programs

Health insurance isn't just about having cover when you need it.

It's also about being able to take proactive steps to look after your health and prevent incidents from occurring.

So it's worth looking for a provider that offers a supporting health and wellbeing program as part of their policy.

AIA Health offers AIA Vitality as a membership program for customers. Being an AIA Vitality member allows you access to healthy eating and exercise initiatives.

In turn, this can help you take better care of your health – and potentially avoid health issues further down the line.

Find out more about AIA Vitality

3. Customisable cover

Health insurance shouldn't be restrictive. Ideally, you should be able to pick and choose the cover you want.

This type of approach can allow you to save on things you don't need, while still allowing you to get cover that's relevant to your needs.

AIA Health is one provider that offers a customisable, mix-and-match approach to health insurance.

All AIA Health policies include hospital cover. But you can build out your extras to create a policy that's appropriate to your lifestyle and what you want covered.

You can see the complete range of extras available on the AIA Health website.

Additionally, making the switch can be a great opportunity for you to think about your future health needs, too. By looking at your family medical history, you can get a feel for what sort of cover you might need in the future.

Find out more about customisable cover with AIA Health

4. Value for money

Value for money can take a few different forms for health insurance. You might be looking to get comparable cover for a cheaper price, or expand your scope of cover without spending more.

It's important to remember that cheaper doesn't necessarily mean better, too. Really, you should be looking for a provider that strikes a balance between cover, service and price.

Let's look at AIA Health again. Earlier, we mentioned the potential savings with AIA Health's current introductory offer.

However, it can offer other benefits too. The AIA Vitality program can entitle you to a range of membership benefits, including gift cards, discounted gym memberships, cashback offers and sometimes even reduced excess payments.

Having access to these types of benefits can offer you additional value during your policy, even if you're not making regular claims.

Find out more about getting health insurance with AIA Health

5. Brand reliability

One way to spot a good health insurer is by looking at their prior track record.
Online reviews, word of mouth and consumer rewards can all tell parts of the story – but it's worth asking a few questions for yourself, too. Some suggested questions include:

• Do they offer a broad range of cover?
• Do they have a history of paying out claims in a timely fashion?
• How established are they in the Australian market?
• What sort of experience do they have in dealing with complex claims?

Reputable insurers won't be afraid to discuss any of these questions – or others – with you.

After all – getting health insurance isn't just about purchasing cover. It's also about knowing that you'll be able to get the service you need, when you need it most.

Learn more about AIA Health's cover

Compare other health insurers here