nib extends psychology benefits during COVID-19

We’ve extended our COVID-19 community support package. Read more.

nib has extended benefits to cover psychology services for all members with Extras cover as one of a raft of measures aimed at helping support the health and wellbeing of members and the community during the COVID-19 crisis.

The initiative, which helps members to look after their mental health and wellbeing during these unprecedented times has been provided at no extra cost to members.

“With most Australians adapting to a new way of life both personally and professionally as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic this can cause significant social and emotional upheaval placing additional pressure on our mental health,” said nib Managing Director, Mark Fitzgibbon.

“By extending coverage for psychology services, we can ensure that our members are able to prioritise their mental health during this difficult time.”

Under the new arrangements, all members with Extras cover will automatically receive a minimum benefit of $300 for psychology services regardless of their policy type. This benefit was previously available only to nib members on some Extras products.

Members are also able to access telehealth psychology consultations so they can continue to stay healthy while staying home.

"We want to make sure our members get the treatment they need, whether that's a visit to the clinic or a telehealth consultation," Mr Fitzgibbon said.

"The impacts of COVID-19 are going to be very widespread, including the strain of mental health on our community and healthcare system," he said. "Extending coverage for psychology services is another way we can assist our members during this challenging period."

The offer complements other support measures nib has already announced to help members stay safe and healthy throughout the pandemic. These include:

• Paying benefits for a range of telehealth services including psychology, occupational therapy, dietetics, speech therapy and podiatry

• Expanded coverage for chest, lung, kidney and bladder or other treatment related to COVID-19 across all levels of hospital cover (including Basic and Bronze where currently excluded)

• Postponement of premium increases due April 1 for at least six months

• Premium relief for members suffering financial hardship as a result of COVID-19

• $1.0 million in community grants and $0.5 million set aside to fund clinical initiatives

The increase in psychology benefits will be available until 30 September 2020. For more information visit nib.com.au/covid19