What is ambulance cover and do I need it?

Paying for ambulance cover might not seem like a priority right now, but it will be if a health emergency suddenly crops up. The reality is that having the bare minimum of health insurance – i.e. ambulance cover – can be a game-changer in times of crisis.

But what does it actually entail, and does it come as an option with most good private health insurance plans? From figuring out state-specific rules to finding the right protection for your needs, this guide will simplify everything.

Ambulance cover is your ticket to essential paramedic care and transportation during medical emergencies, but it’s unfortunately not covered by Medicare. It varies between states and territories, which also adds to the complexity if you’re moving around or travelling for work. In some parts of the country, ambulance cover is something you’ll need to take care of yourself, while in others the state/territory government provides free or subsidised services to concession cardholders and low-income earners.

Generally, you can get ambulance cover either through a health fund or directly from state ambulance services. It’s also available in a couple of different types, covering emergency or non-emergency services, and the specifics will depend on the health insurance policy and your provider.

Having ambulance cover isn’t just about paying for a ride to the hospital, but about having a safety net against the high costs of ambulance services. These might include emergency transportation, paramedic treatment, inter-hospital transport and more – and what you are covered for will depend on the policy you choose. Some might restrict cover to specific types of ambulance transport, such as road travel only, while others will cover all modes including choppers.

Before deciding on ambulance cover, make sure you read the PDS and, most importantly, the specifics around your state or territory to make the most informed decision for your needs.

Ambulance services can be expensive if you don't have any cover. Luckily, in Victoria, New South Wales, the Northern Territory and the ACT, folks with low incomes or pensioners often get free or reduced-cost ambulance services. But for everyone else, not having insurance means being hit with a big bill if you’re uninsured. You’ll have to pay through the nose just for getting an ambulance to your home, and then for every kilometre they travel.

That’s why many Australians reckon ambulance cover is a must-have. It’s relatively cheap on its own and is often included with even the most basic health plan. Without it, you could be hit hard with charges if there’s an emergency.

Knowing what you’re covered for based on where you live can save you from worrying about paying loads during a scary time. Ultimately, ambulance cover gives you peace of mind that you’ll get the help you need when you need it most – without worrying about the bill.

To check if your private health insurance includes ambulance cover, the easiest thing to do is review your policy details or speak to your insurer. Some health plans include ambulance cover as part of the deal, but others might need you to add it on. That’s why you should already know what your policy covers, especially in case of an emergency!

When you're comparing health insurance, keep an eye out for policies that include ambulance cover. These plans could save you from extra costs in times of need. But always read the fine print and ask the insurer directly to make sure you're covered for ambulance services.

If your policy doesn’t include ambulance cover, think about the price of not adding it. Having this cover could save you from a hefty bill if – or more likely when – an emergency happens.

The price of ambulance cover varies across Australia and depends on where you live. In Victoria, for example, emergency ambulance transport can set you back over $1,200 on average. But if you get ambulance cover (even on its own), it might only be a bit over $50 for an individual or slightly more than $100 for a family every year if you go through the state’s ambulance service.

However, these figures will differ depending on the state or territory where you live. Some areas might have different pricing structures or lower levels of cover. It’s important to research what’s available in your location to find health insurance that suits your needs and budget.

Remember, ambulance cover can save you from big out-of-pocket expenses during an emergency. Paying a small yearly fee could mean avoiding large bills later if you need urgent medical care. So it's worth considering it as part of your overall health insurance plan to ensure you are protected from any unexpected health situations that might arise.

While it might sound like fun, a ride in an ambulance without cover can cost well over $1,000 depending on the nature of the emergency and where you are collected from. These unexpected expenses can be a heavy burden. That’s why getting ambulance cover, even if it’s a regular premium, might end up being far more affordable in the long run.

Planning ahead and having cover in place could save you from financial strains during an emergency. Ultimately, it’s the price you pay for peace of mind knowing you won't be stung with a huge bill in a moment of crisis.

At the end of the day, ambulance cover can – and will – help you out during emergencies, providing financial security whenever an ambo is necessary. Not having cover can result in eye-watering bills should you ever need emergency transport. Imagine paying a grand (or more) for a quick trip because you aren’t covered.

Deciding on ambulance cover means thinking about where you live and how much you can spend. Sure, it's an extra cost, but it's way cheaper than paying a big ambulance bill after an accident or sudden illness. Think about what might happen and if it's worth it for you, as having cover might just save you from a surprise bill when you least expect it.

Deciding on ambulance cover isn't just about money. Most people get it for the peace of mind it offers. If you don’t have private health insurance but think you’d like to be covered in case of an emergency, it might be a smart move. Without it, you could be severely out of pocket.

The choice is yours! But remember, it's often better to have a safety net when things don't go as planned.