Understanding ambulance arrangements across Australia
It’s important to understand that in the unfortunate event you require emergency ambulance transport, Medicare won’t cover the cost, although some state governments subsidise ambulance services, and some pensioners and low income earners may also be entitled to free ambulance assistance.
Click here to view the ambulance services you're eligible for in your home state.
What's included for HIF members who need an ambulance.
The great news about HIF ambulance cover is that it doesn’t matter which level of Hospital or Extras cover you choose, you have cover for emergency ambulance services. Most health funds do not cover ambulance services if they're considered 'non-emergency'. At HIF, on eligible levels of Hospital or Extras cover, if your ambulance service is classified as 'non-emergency' all you have to contribute is a $50 co-payment per trip.
Please note:
Benefits are paid on charges raised for approved ambulance services.
Benefits are not payable for inter-hospital transportation except for inter-hospital transfers relating to an emergency or new illness where approved on a case-by-case basis by HIF.
Benefits are not payable for transportation from a hospital to your home, nursing home or other hospital, or for transportation for ongoing medical treatment.
Benefits are not payable for off road or air ambulance (e.g. plane, helicopter or boat).