Day surgery is defined as a surgical procedure that is performed when you are able to be safely discharged on the same day. Health funds generally cover day surgery costs as part of your health insurance policy, although certain conditions may apply.
It's important to be aware that day surgery (which requires formal admission into hospital) is different to outpatient treatment, which may also provide same day treatment but is not covered by your health fund. Outpatient treatment includes emergency room treatment, consultations with your specialist before a labour admission and most assisted reproductive services or treatments.
In general, health funds do not cover outpatient treatment unless:
Types of surgery able to be performed as day surgery include:
To make it easy for you, we've put together a quick overview of the cover provided by our participating health funds for day surgery.
All Australian Unity hospital policies cover day surgery to varying degrees.
The excess is not payable for day surgery under Smart Start Hospital and Extras cover.
GMHBA Silver Hospital and Gold Hospital policies provide cover for same day treatment. Bronze Hospital covers day surgery at public hospitals, or accommodation only for day surgery at a private hospital (not theatre costs).
All HCF hospital covers pay a benefit for same day surgery.
No Excess is payable for day surgery (or for accidents).
All NIB hospital covers pay a benefit for same day surgery.
All Peoplecare hospital covers pay a benefit for same day surgery.
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Please note: the information provided here is a guide only and should not be used as a substitute for advice provided by a medical professional or your health fund. We highly recommend you consult your health fund for any specific health insurance-related queries.
