Have you used your Extras? Things to know before your annual limits reset

Make sure you’re getting the most from your nib Extras cover

01 December 2019 4 minute read

A mum comforts her daughter as she has her teeth checked by a male dentist

Your neighbour has donned his favourite pair of thongs, the air conditioning has been turned on full blast, your freezer is filled to the brim with ice-blocks and your skin is glowing from the sheen of sweat. Yep, it's summer in Australia.

But before we head into holiday-mode, there’s one extra thing to consider.
Your Extras cover.

Because at the end of each calendar year, your Extras limits reset; which means if you’ve served your waiting periods and haven’t hit your annual limits yet, you may still have the ability to make a claim.

So, how do you make sure you’re getting the most from your nib Extras cover? We’ve put together a handy list of questions to ask yourself.

Have I visited the dentist?

You and your family should aim to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and even more regularly if you’re experiencing any tooth sensitivity, pain or bleeding. Dentists help prevent tooth decay, mouth and gum disease and oral cancer, and can also help guide you on brushing technique and mouth and gum care.

Believe it or not, fear of visiting the dentist is a real thing. Check out our article 7 ways to overcome your fear of the dentist for some simple techniques to help.

The last thing we want you to fear is the cost of visiting the dentist. That’s why we have our nib First Choice network. It’s our community of specially-selected health providers who have agreed to provide nib members with quality healthcare at an affordable price. Even better, if you visit an nib dental care centre, you could get 100% back¹ on dental check-ups.

Have I had my eyes checked?

Are you getting headaches, blurred vision or sore eyes? Are you having trouble reading this article? If so, it’s time to book a trip to the optometrist to get your vision checked. Even if you don’t experience any symptoms, it’s important to visit an optometrist every two years to make sure your peepers are still in their prime. nib has a number of Eye Care Centres across Sydney, Newcastle and Melbourne which provide 100% back² on a selection of contact lenses and single vision prescription glasses.

How’s my sore knee/wrist/back?

Have you been suffering through the year with a dull ache or pain? There’s never been a better time to get it checked out than now. Many of nib’s Extras covers pay benefits for your visit to the physiotherapist, chiropractor or osteopath. If you’re not sure where to start, head to your GP and ask for a referral or recommendation.

How’s my fitness level?

We want to make sure you have all the tools to look and feel your best, so on selected nib health covers, you can claim on gym membership and weight management program fees. Interested? If you're covered, simply head into your GP or another registered provider to complete a Health Management Program Supporting Document form and submit with your claim.

Am I eating well?

Whether it’s a Tim Tam with your evening cup of tea or a slice of pizza while watching the footy – we all have our vices when it comes to food. But, if you’re concerned that the occasional treat has become a habit, you can always get help from a dietitian or nutritionist. Dietitians and nutritionists help you with meal planning and food to enhance your diet, with a number of nib Extras covers paying benefits towards your consultation.

Extras cover makes it more affordable for you to access the health services that aren’t covered by Medicare. Before making any appointments, make sure you check what you’re covered for, if you’re currently serving any waiting periods and your remaining annual limits by logging in to member account. For more information on Extras cover, check out our article Taking the confusion out of Extras cover.

¹Subject to waiting periods, annual limits and other conditions

²The ability to claim 100% back on glasses or contact lenses from nib is dependent on your nib product, waiting periods, available annual limits and the availability of your particular prescription. 100% back on contact lenses is limited to selected contact lenses and a minimum of 4 boxes. Check your cover by calling 13 14 63 or visit nib Online Services.