Does my OSHC cover coronavirus - COVID 19? 

The below information has been updated by our insurance provider - nib. If you purchased OSHC through different insurance company, please make sure you check for their information.

This page  will be frequently updated to provide you with the most up-to-date information. This means we may add more frequently asked questions and update answers as the situation evolves.
It’s been over three months since the first official report of the novel coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) and since then, the disease has spread, causing the World Health Organization to label it a pandemic.
It’s now more important than ever to keep informed on the ways that we can all do our bit to slow the spread of the virus. To help you with questions you may have about your health cover, we’ve put together these frequently asked questions.
For more information about your cover, you can login to Online Services or the nib App. If you prefer to speak to someone, please head to our Contact page.

I’m no longer coming to Australia, can I cancel my OSHC cover?Yes – for more information about cancelling your policy, visit nib OSHC Refund page.

I haven’t been able to return to Australia due to travel bans and my course has started – what should I do?If you are still coming to Australia to study but need to change your policy dates please supply a Confirmation of Enrolment confirming your new dates or once you arrive to supply your flight details so we can adjust your policy dates Accordingly. For more information, visit nib OSHC Refund page.

If I have COVID-19 symptoms and want to visit a GP Doctor, will it be covered by my OSHC cover?If you’re showing symptoms of COVID-19, we recommend that you phone the 24/7 health direct number 1800 022 222 and speak with a nurse regarding your symptoms.
If you require treatment by a GP, visits to a GP are covered at 100% of the government-recommended fee (known as the ‘MBS’). Search for a preferred provider to find a doctor near you that will help minimise any expenses.
In response to COVID-19, the Australian Government has introduced new MBS items, which will allow people to access essential health services in their home while they undergo self- isolation or quarantine, and reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 for vulnerable people in the community. This is a temporary six-month measure. OSHC members who are isolating themselves at home for COVID-19 will be able to claim for services from any eligible telehealth provider through the new telehealth items. For more information, please see https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/covid-19-national-health-plan-primary-care-bulk-billed-mbs-telehealth-services_0.pdf

Am I covered for pathology tests for COVID-19?
For outpatient services such as pathology, you will be covered for 85% of the service for treatment that is not part of a hospital stay. You must include a valid item number on the receipt to make a claim.
Will I be covered if I need to go to hospital?
If you need to be admitted to hospital, and you don’t have any pre-existing conditions the following is applicable:

• If you are admitted to an nib agreement private hospital, we will pay 100% of the contracted rate.
• If you are admitted to a private hospital that is not contracted to nib, we will pay the default benefit. This may result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.
• If you are admitted to a shared ward in a public hospital, we will pay 100% of the Gazetted Rate determined by State and Territory health authorities. This may result in you experiencing significant out-of-pocket expenses.

It is important you read the nib OSHC product fact sheet to know what you are covered for. It is important that you check your benefit entitlement with nib before going into hospital by calling 1800 775 204.

Will COVID-19 be considered a pre-existing condition?A Pre-Existing Condition (PEC) is an ailment, illness, or condition where, in the view of nib’s appointed Medical Practitioner, signs or symptoms relating to that condition existed during the 6 months prior to arriving in Australia . Any future claims for complications arising from COVID-19 will be assessed in line with our pre-existing illness policy, with nib’s appointed Medical Practitioner to make a final determination at the time of enquiry.

Am I covered for prescription medications to help my recovery from COVID-19?nib will help you pay for some prescription medications.
You are able to claim up to $50 per prescription item listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), after you pay the PBS Patient contribution. You can claim up to $300 per person per calendar year, capped at $600 for families.
If I’m self-isolating, will food and accommodation expenses be covered by my OSHC cover?
No – there are no benefits payable for food or accommodation on your OSHC cover. Your cover is there to assist you with medical expenses only.

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