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

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. Visiting a First Choice dentist can help keep your costs down, with access to agreed rates* and a percentage of your dentist's fee back on eligible services, up to your annual limit. Plus, eligible members could get 100% back¹ on preventative dental check-ups at participating No Gap dental providers.

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. Not sure where to start? We've partnered with a range of optical providers to bring our members discounts and No Gap offers through our First Choice Optical network.

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. Members who visit a First Choice physiotherapist can get 100% back² on their initial consultation.

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.

The information in this article is general in nature and doesn't take your personal circumstances into account. Before making decisions about your health cover or treatment, consider seeking advice that's appropriate for your situation.

*nib First Choice providers (i.e. our network) offer competitive fees for many commonly claimed treatments and consultations. These fees are reviewed at least annually and are subject to change. Always check nib.com.au/health-services/find-a-provider before booking to see if your provider participates or simply ask your provider if they are part of nib’s network at the time of booking. Providers occasionally leave the nib First Choice network so it’s important to check before booking to avoid disappointment. Annual limits, service limits, waiting periods and T&Cs apply.

¹Payment by nib of dental benefits is subject to serving relevant waiting periods, annual limits and service limits. Check your cover by visiting your member account or call 13 16 42. The dental check-up covers an examination or consultation (011 to 015), diagnostics (022, 037) scale and clean (114, 115) or removal of plaque (111), fluoride treatment (121) as deemed necessary and appropriate in the clinical opinion of the dentist (dentures not included). The services provided will be deducted from your annual limits and/or service limits. The No Gap offer is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or government scheme, nor substitutable or redeemable for cash and is only available with dentists who have a No Gap First Choice network provider agreement with nib.

²Covers 100% of the First Choice agreed rate for an initial consultation (item 500). Excludes follow-ups, long consults, telehealth and group classes. Subject to waiting periods, annual/service limits, and nib Fund Rules & Policy Booklet terms. Visit First Choice network physio.