02
October
2017
|
09:56
Australia/Melbourne

Choosing your health provider could cut your costs by $600 a year

As cost of living pressures mount, Bupa has revealed that the average customer could be almost $600* a year better off simply by being more selective about where they go for dental, physiotherapy and chiropractic treatments.

Health insurers strive to work with health providers to reduce out of pockets for members through mutually agreed arrangements to enable customers to gain access to affordable care.

Bupa said that, on average, customers who used a Member First dentist, physio and chiro within a 12-month period would have an average out of pocket fee of around $397* compared to $983 on average for non-Member First providers.

Dr Dwayne Crombie, Managing Director of Bupa Health Insurance, said that many customers still weren’t aware that there was a difference in what providers charged and how much it can affect the household budget.

“It’s no secret that everyone is feeling the pinch in relation to the general cost of living pressures,” Dr Crombie said.

“As health insurers, we aim to negotiate the best price for our customers however even after many years of these arrangements being in place some people aren’t aware of the difference it makes.

“Saving up to $600* can make a big difference and we want customers to know about it, ensuring people can see the real value for money their health cover can provide them.

“Whilst Bupa customers can visit any provider, it is important for people to understand the financial experience does vary significantly and attending a Members First provider can not only deliver financial savings but all submit claims electronically making the entire experience simpler as well.

“We list all our Member First providers on our website or through our app,” Dr Crombie said.

Find out more about how chosing the right provider can save you hundreds of dollars on news.com.au.

Read more about healthcare affordability

*Bupa data is based on the average out of pocket costs summed for customers over a 12-month period if they were to utilise these modalities for services included in the Members First agreement.