Best value my circumstances – I rarely write reviews about things but felt the need to write a positive one about HIF. After being fed up with the lack of value I was getting from BUPA and the increasing restrictions of which health providers I could see, I contacted a third party health insurance reviewer and whilst reluctant to go through the process, I am actually glad the operator found HIF for me.
I have had no issues with HIF since signing up, all my waiting periods were matched and I have received more value from HIF than I would have ever done with my previous fund. There are rarely any 'preferred' providers which allows me to choose which health professionals I would like to see. I have only ever once had to call customer support and whilst there was a long wait via telephone (I rang late on a Friday afternoon!), I eventually ended up emailing their team and got a prompt response.
My disclaimer is that for the specific extras I use and because I do not need extensive hospital cover, I have only good things to say about HIF. Their claiming system is extremely easy and rebates get deposited electronically within a few days.
Admittedly the increase in premiums for the upcoming year were a bit steep but I have chosen to prepay for the next few months which saves me some money. Whilst still happy with HIF, I do research regularly as to what other health funds are offering and I am yet to find a better policy for my life circumstances at this point in time.
- Insurance claim made: No
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Hello Fmyt, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a wonderful review, especially as you rarely write them.
As a not for profit health fund, we pride ourselves on providing a great experience to all members, so to hear such terrific feedback has really made our day.
With regards to ‘preferred’ providers, we want members, like you, to have total freedom of choice when it comes to the providers you choose, so as long as your providers are legally qualified to practise in Australia, please rest assured they'll be automatically covered by HIF. More details on that are available here in case it’s useful: external link
In terms of our premium increase for 2017, we don’t enjoy raising our premiums either. However, I’m afraid it was necessary to do so this year in order to address rising health related expenses such as increased doctor charges, advanced medical technologies, increases in member claims frequency, and more.
As a new member though, you may be interested to know that since 2010, we’ve implemented the lowest total average premium increase over the past eight year period. So although this year’s increase was higher than usual, we always do our very best to keep a tight lid on our members’ premiums. In case it helps more useful information and FAQs about this year’s premium increase can also be found here: external link
Once again, Fymt, thank you very much for your kind words and if I can ever be of assistance in the future regarding your membership, please don't hesitate to email me direct. You can reach me any time on social@hif.com.au
Warmest regards,
Molly Teague (HIF Digital Consultant)