Health insurance and braces

[sue1386]

I have been told that I need to sign a contract re braces for a child and that private health companies can say they will cover a certain amount but may end up causing hassles . This terrifies me as I couldn't be liable if they don't pay up easilly . I've asked questions and seems ok . How can I avoid nasty surprises ? Thnx

[KimB]

My only advice is to double check with which ever health fund you decide on. Most of them don't argue about braces if you have included major dental in the extras cover. They do only cover a certain amount but that amount increases with every year you are with them. Good luck on deciding what to do

[~me~]

Definitely research your PHI company. Most have waiting periods on dental. I would assume any major dental would come under just that 'major dental', again you would have to look into it very carefully. I am a little unsure as to why you would have sign a contract/disclaimer for braces only? They can knock you back if they think the condition is pre existing, this would be in the terms and conditions. Most PHI companies don't rebate alot on extra's anyway, that has been my experience in the past.
I have heard that HBA are great with dental in their extra's policy for kids, so perhaps have a look into that.
I am assuming this is for one for one of your children?
Private Health Insurance can be very confusing to research. Good luck with it all.

*edit* ok, I think the penny has just dropped Lol..so one of your children needs braces and you have to sign some sort of undertaking on the amount they are willing to pay? Is that right? Again I would look into your initial terms and conditions and see what it says on that part of your major dental. I would also get all your item numbers from the Orthodontist that they will be billing you and the cost and take it to your PHI for a quote. HTH