If you’re visiting Australia, you may be eligible for Medicare coverage through Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA). Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare, offers fully or partially–subsidised access to certain health services and treatments, and RHCA includes many of the same benefits.
If you’re from one of 11 countries included in the agreement, you may be eligible for Medicare coverage while in Australia. It’s worth noting, though, that this coverage does not guarantee access to all health services, and you may still need to take out a private health insurance policy for your stay.
What Is An RHCA?
Australia’s Reciprocal Health Care Agreement is an arrangement that offers publicly-funded healthcare coverage to visitors from other nations. Australia has these agreements with 11 other countries, allowing visitors to access Australia’s public health system, Medicare. In return, Australians are given some level of access to these nations’ own health systems. In both cases, coverage may differ depending on the nations involved and will not necessarily include access to all health services and treatments.
What Countries Are Eligible For The Reciprocal Health Care Agreement?
Australia has made Reciprocal Health Care Agreements with 11 countries, which are:
- Belgium
- Finland
- Italy
- Malta
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Republic of Ireland
- Slovenia
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
While RHCA gives visitors access to Medicare, the exact level of coverage may differ depending on your country of origin.
It’s important to note, too, that reciprocal health coverage is not guaranteed for those visiting from RHCA nations. Visitors will first need to prove eligibility, with different criteria applying depending on your country of origin. Visit the Services Australia website for up-to-date information on eligibility requirements and nation-based information.
What Does The RHCA Cover When Visiting Australia?
If you’re from one of 11 Medicare reciprocal countries, you may be eligible to access Australian health services during your time here. Specific requirements differ by country and you’ll need to make sure you’re eligible before you enrol in Medicare. Note that Medicare coverage is not a substitute for comprehensive Overseas Visitor Health Cover, which is recommended for all visitors to Australia.
Access to specific services and treatments can differ depending on your country of origin – always ensure you check with the Australian government website for comprehensive and current information.
Here is a quick breakdown of which countries have reciprocal medical agreements with Australia, and what the coverage includes:
Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia
Coverage includes:
- Medically-necessary out of hospital care
- Medically-necessary public hospital care, including inpatient and outpatient services
- Some Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS) prescriptions
Length of coverage:
From arrival in Australia until the expiration of your visa, national health insurance card or European health insurance card – whichever comes first.
Finland, Sweden, United Kingdom
Coverage includes:
- Medically-necessary out of hospital care
- Medically-necessary public hospital care, including inpatient and outpatient services
- Some Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS) prescriptions
Length of coverage:
From arrival in Australia until the expiration of your visa or national health insurance – whichever comes first.
Italy and Malta
Coverage includes:
- Medically-necessary out of hospital care
- Medically-necessary public hospital care, including inpatient and outpatient services
- Some Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS) prescriptions
Length of coverage:
From arrival in Australia until the expiration of your visa or six months have elapsed – whichever comes first.
New Zealand and Republic of Ireland
Coverage includes:
- Medically-necessary public hospital care, including inpatient and outpatient services only (no out-of-hospital cover)
- Some Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS) prescriptions
Length of coverage: From arrival in Australia until you leave Australia.
How Do I Use The Reciprocal Health Care Agreement When I Am In Australia?
To claim RHCA benefits, you’ll first need to enrol in Medicare. The requirements for enrolment differ depending on your country of origin, so you’ll need to check the appropriate Services Australia page for more information.
Once your application has been approved, you’ll be able to use the Medicare system. The exact services/treatments and coverage you’re able to claim through Medicare will depend on your nationality – for instance, RHCA applicants from New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland are only able to claim public hospital care and do not receive out-of-hospital coverage.
When seeking medical services under Medicare in Australia, you’ll need to understand your obligations, including any out-of-pocket expenses. For instance, many services are not covered up front and you may need to submit a claim to receive your benefit.
Regardless of your level of Medicare coverage under the RHCA, it is not a replacement for more substantial private health policies. Overseas Visitor Health Cover is recommended for all visitors to Australia to ensure affordable and comprehensive access to medical services.
What If I’m From A Country Not Listed Within The Reciprocal Health Care Agreement?
Australia’s reciprocal health care agreement for visitors doesn’t cover everyone. If you’re not from one of the 11 RHCA nations, you’ll still be able to access medical services while you visit, but it won’t be covered by Medicare. Instead, you’ll need to take out an appropriate insurance policy. In many cases, an OVHC policy will be a condition of your 8501 visa conditions. Students and those on Temporary Graduate, Temporary Work (Skilled) and other visas may have their own specific health insurance requirements.
Looking to visit Australia and need to find appropriate health coverage? At OVHC Insurance, we make it easy to compare policies from Australia’s major insurance providers and find the best choice for your needs. Get a free quote today and ensure you’re covered for when you visit.
