When you think of health insurance, what comes to mind? It could be hospital stays, surgeries, and perhaps specialist consultations.

While these are crucial aspects of what health insurance can cover, depending on your policy, there are also other lesser-known but highly valuable benefits to consider. Let’s see some of them.

Wellness programmes

Insurance is becoming more and more about preventing health issues before they occur. That’s why some health insurers offer health management programmes to eligible members.

For example, they may partner up with gyms and dieticians to offer free or discounted gym memberships, fitness classes, and even personalised dietary plans.

By providing tools that enable you to lead a healthier lifestyle, wellness programmes can indirectly contribute to lower long-term healthcare costs – something every policyholder would appreciate.

Mental health support

In New Zealand, conversations around mental health are becoming increasingly prevalent, and insurers are taking note.

Some insurance providers may offer complementary mental health cover or give their members access to a specified number of free mental health online sessions with a counsellor or well-being coach.

These resources can be invaluable; in New Zealand it’s estimated that one in five people experience medium-to-high levels of mental distress.

Alternative therapies

Another lesser-known benefit that you might want to explore is access to alternative and complementary therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and even naturopathy. Some health insurance plans provide coverage for these services.

If you’re interested, get in touch. We can help you understand what’s available and whether there are any restrictions regarding the type of therapy that’s covered by your policy.

Telehealth services

They gained traction during the pandemic, and some people still find telehealth services convenient. Especially for New Zealanders living in rural areas, being able to consult a doctor from the comfort of their home or workplace can be crucial.

Once again, insurance providers are recognising this need by adding telehealth provisions to their offerings. These usually cover virtual consultations and even online prescription refills – making healthcare more accessible than ever.

Ready to explore your options?

Not all health insurance policies are created equal. When choosing or reviewing your health cover, make sure you look beyond the basic coverage options to fully understand how your insurance can support your broader health and well-being.

Not quite sure where to start? Get in touch with our team at SHARE, will be happy to help.

Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.