COVID-19 information for members
GMHBA is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our members and community. Learn more about the measures that were put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic and the return of claims savings.
Return of claims savings
GMHBA set aside funds to pay for claims that had to be postponed during COVID-19 for future member treatments. Not all claims that we planned for were made, so we've returned value to our members in a number of ways.
Telehealth
GMHBA members with extras cover can access benefits for certain telehealth consultations in line with their level of cover.
Financial hardship assistance
If you’re experiencing financial hardship, you may be eligible to suspend your membership.
COVID-19 and your health cover – Frequently Asked Questions
COVID-19 related hospitalisation cover was a temporary support measure introduced in 2020. This coverage was extended throughout 2020, 2021 and 2022 and expired on 30 April 2023. Please check your policy documents to understand what clinical categories you are currently covered for and if they will still be suitable for your needs now that the temporary COVID-19 hospitalisation cover has ended.
COVID-19 does not have its own clinical category or MBS item number, so if you are admitted into hospital to determine the root cause of the presenting illness, this is covered the same way as it would for any other medical admission, e.g., the flu.
From 1 May 2023, if you are admitted to hospital as a result of a condition developed following contracting COVID-19, the condition will come under the applicable clinical category, e.g. Lung and Chest. If you are unsure whether you will remain covered, please get in touch and we would be happy to do a cover review to help you make sure you have the level of cover you require.
We don't cover outpatient appointments such as GP appointments, blood tests etc. These rules will continue to apply as normal, including for COVID-19.
Yes. You may be able to suspend your cover due to financial hardship if you've had an active GMHBA health insurance policy for at least six months.
During a suspension period, you won't need to pay your premium, but you also won't be able to claim on services rendered or occurred during this time.
Additional suspension measures we have put in place for members who may be experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic include:
- Suspension for up to 12 months
- Waiving the minimum suspension period so you can reactivate at any time you need.
Find out more or talk to one of our customer service representatives about your situation. They can guide you through the things to consider and help to ensure you have the right level of affordable cover, as well as answer any questions you may have.
As with any other type of suspension, you are not able to claim benefits while your cover is suspended.
GMHBA are unable to pay benefits for any pre-booked treatment performed while cover is suspended.