Maximising your extras and wellbeing

Extras are a welcome wellbeing bonus associated with private health insurance, but remember, they need to be used within the calendar year.

Many people save their health insurance extras cover for year-end, but this often adds pressure during an already busy season.

That’s why Australian Unity encourages members to lock in optical, dental and physiotherapy appointments regularly throughout the year. Having these appointments booked well in advance— in regular intervals—is a perfect way to prioritise your physical health and wellbeing and invest in your Real Wellbeing.

To help you get the most from your private health insurance extras, we asked Australian Unity’s experts for their strategies. From checking your balance to booking early, their tips ensure you’re not leaving money—or health benefits—on the table.

Understanding your extras health insurance balance 

Avila Vaz, a product analyst at Australian Unity says reviewing your benefits is the crucial first step in maximising your extras. 

“The easiest way to check your extras balance or what you’re entitled to is through our online Member Services, which provides 24/7 access to your membership," says Avila. To do this, log in to Member Online, use the Australian Unity app, submit an online enquiry, talk live via the webchat, or contact the call centre on 1800 760 719.

And if you’ve forgotten to lodge a receipt or claim for last year, or the year before that? Don’t worry, Avila assures you that “members can claim for benefits within the two years from the date of service with the valid receipts.”

Continuing the theme of maximising and understanding your extras, James Kenway, a team leader at Australian Unity, highlights a common misunderstanding: “Depending on your level of cover, the annual limit might be combined with something else—for example, physiotherapy and exercise physiology may be combined. Your fact sheet will show if we offer a combined limit for both services.”

Other typical combined services include remedial massage, acupuncture and myotherapy. “People might think, ‘I’ve got $300 for all three’. Depending on your cover, that may not be the case; in those instances, it’s a combined amount,” says James.

Beyond the obvious dental and optical appointments, there are several lesser known benefits that many members overlook, including health support programs on certain policies, and sub-limits on services like remedial massage or major dental work.

People often underutilise preventive health services too. Depending on your level of cover, this might include weight loss programs, quitting smoking courses and doctor health checks.  

Scheduling appointments in advance

When life’s full, health appointments can slip your mind—until something goes wrong. Scheduling regular check‑ups with your dentist, optometrist and other specialists make visits simpler and help you maximise your extras.

“You might find popular services, like physio, dental and optical, may have longer wait times,” says Avila. “If you have a provider you love to go to, we recommend booking in early.”

Dentists, in particular, tend to fill up quickly. But one of the benefits of private health insurance is that, if your preferred provider isn’t available, members can choose another clinic in the Australian Unity network as part of the no-gap dental service. 

“When appointments get snapped up towards the end of the year, our members can have the freedom to choose another provider and get their services before the limits reset,” says Avila.

For James, it’s all about scheduling appointments early. “For dental and optical, for example, I like to book my check-up appointments well in advance. If something comes up, I can always move that appointment around. 

“I also try to remember that many providers can close over the Christmas period, as well as public holidays. So I try to use any leftover extras limits in the first couple of weeks of December, before it becomes too late or too hard to make a booking.”

The key is having trusted providers and actually remembering to book those appointments. “Having a good GP who can point you in the right direction for achieving your health goals is really useful,” says James. “The first step that you can do is to just book in that appointment.”

As Avila puts it: “By spreading these appointments throughout the year, you're not only maximising your health insurance extras, but you’re also building habits that support long-term health and wellbeing.”

Building better health habits year-round

While maximising your benefits before year’s end is important, the real value lies in building sustainable health habits that extend well beyond December. Avila recommends treating health maintenance as a year-long priority. 

“Think of your body like a garden,” says Avila. “You don’t wait for plants to wilt before watering them. Treat your health and wellbeing in the same way.”

She translates this philosophy into practical steps. If you’re physically active, consider incorporating remedial massage, physiotherapy or myotherapy into your routine to maintain muscle health, avoid injuries and promote physical wellbeing. Schedule dental check-ups every six months to avoid painful, expensive treatments later. Aim to get your eyes tested at least once a year.

And don’t overlook your mental wellbeing. “Consider regular sessions with a psychologist to stay balanced. That’s so relevant in the world that we live in right now,” she emphasises.

So don’t put this essential life admin off. Check your remaining benefits today, book those appointments now, and turn those extras benefits into an investment in your physical and mental health.