There are many reasons why visitors from the United Kingdom might need to see a GP or go to a hospital during a stay in Australia, so it's smart to know about the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement, which will often be able to provide cover. Here's a quick overview of everything that you need to understand.
What is a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement?
Residents of several countries, including the UK, have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement signed with Australia. Essentially, it covers some medical expenses for visitors to Australia—in turn, Australians visiting the UK will receive the same cover from the NHS. All you need to do is present your passport when you arrive at a hospital or GP surgery.
You can also pick up a Medicare card at your local Medicare office—they will give you a temporary number on the spot, then mail a card to your address. This is a good idea for those who will be visiting the country for some time, such as those on working holiday visas.
What Does the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement Cover?
The Reciprocal Health Care Agreement covers 'treatment that is medically essential' as either a public in-patient or out-patient in a public hospital. You will be able to receive medical treatment for conditions or injuries that occur while you are in Australia and require treatment before you return home. You will also be eligible to receive subsidised medicine under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
However, the agreement does not cover:
- The Treatment of Pre-Existing Conditions
- Ambulance or Airlift Services
- Private Hospital Visits
- Dental Check-Ups and Treatments
- Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Eye Therapy, Chiropractic Services, and Podiatry
You'll also be able to receive any subsidised discounted for glasses and contact lenses.
Do You Still Need Travel Insurance?
Despite this advantageous arrangement between Australia and the UK, you should always make sure that you arrange travel insurance that covers the entirety of your trip, with any potentially-dangerous activities, such as skiing, fully accounted for.
A short trip in an ambulance or an airlift from somewhere more remote can end up costing you a huge amount of money. More serious injuries will still be treated within a hospital, but they may require the use of medicines or equipment that is not covered by the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement, and you'll be forced to rely upon the public system. Additionally, any recovery therapies, such as physiotherapy, will not be covered. If you don't think you can afford travel insurance, you can't afford the holiday.
