Is CHBS Health Insurance Worth It? Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on CHBS
ScoreCHBS health insurance stands out on the Australian market for the flexibility of its plans, competitive reimbursement rates (up to 90% for hospital and extras depending on coverage), and generous annual limits (up to $3,500 for select extras packages). The standard excess starts at $250 but can be customised, while a unique prevention budget of up to $150 per person/year is an attractive inclusion compared to mainstream providers like Bupa and Medibank. Pricing sits in the market average, offering robust value for singles, couples, and families, especially those with frequent needs for dental, optical, or physio. CHBS particularly suits young families and working professionals seeking clear add-on modules and flexible hospital + extras combinations. With over $1.2 billion in annual premium income and a portfolio exceeding 500,000 members, CHBS displays strong financial reliability. Trustpilot indicates a solid 4.1/5 average (based on 1,200+ reviews), with positive feedback on claim responsiveness. Average claim reimbursements are processed within 3 business days, confirming efficient administration and customer trust.
- ✅Up to 90% on hospital and extras claims
- ✅Annual extras limits up to $3,500
- ✅Prevention allowance up to $150 per person/year
- ✅Customisable excess reduces premium
- ✅Clear modules for hospital and extras
- ✅Fast payout: average 3 days for claims
- ✅Strong financial backing and large member base
- ❌Dental not fully covered in basic plans
- ❌Restricted access to some wellness programs
- ❌No direct-bill with all providers
- ❌Some waiting periods on major services
- ❌Premium increases yearly above inflation
- ✅Up to 90% on hospital and extras claims
- ✅Annual extras limits up to $3,500
- ✅Prevention allowance up to $150 per person/year
- ✅Customisable excess reduces premium
- ✅Clear modules for hospital and extras
- ✅Fast payout: average 3 days for claims
- ✅Strong financial backing and large member base
Our Expert's Opinion on CHBS
ScoreCHBS health insurance stands out on the Australian market for the flexibility of its plans, competitive reimbursement rates (up to 90% for hospital and extras depending on coverage), and generous annual limits (up to $3,500 for select extras packages). The standard excess starts at $250 but can be customised, while a unique prevention budget of up to $150 per person/year is an attractive inclusion compared to mainstream providers like Bupa and Medibank. Pricing sits in the market average, offering robust value for singles, couples, and families, especially those with frequent needs for dental, optical, or physio. CHBS particularly suits young families and working professionals seeking clear add-on modules and flexible hospital + extras combinations. With over $1.2 billion in annual premium income and a portfolio exceeding 500,000 members, CHBS displays strong financial reliability. Trustpilot indicates a solid 4.1/5 average (based on 1,200+ reviews), with positive feedback on claim responsiveness. Average claim reimbursements are processed within 3 business days, confirming efficient administration and customer trust.
- ✅Up to 90% on hospital and extras claims
- ✅Annual extras limits up to $3,500
- ✅Prevention allowance up to $150 per person/year
- ✅Customisable excess reduces premium
- ✅Clear modules for hospital and extras
- ✅Fast payout: average 3 days for claims
- ✅Strong financial backing and large member base
- ❌Dental not fully covered in basic plans
- ❌Restricted access to some wellness programs
- ❌No direct-bill with all providers
- ❌Some waiting periods on major services
- ❌Premium increases yearly above inflation
- ✅Up to 90% on hospital and extras claims
- ✅Annual extras limits up to $3,500
- ✅Prevention allowance up to $150 per person/year
- ✅Customisable excess reduces premium
- ✅Clear modules for hospital and extras
- ✅Fast payout: average 3 days for claims
- ✅Strong financial backing and large member base
- What does CHBS health insurance cover?
- What is the price of CHBS health insurance in 2025?
- Is CHBS health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
- Main Benefits Provided by the CHBS Policy:
- Duration and Validity Conditions
- Does CHBS health insurance cover seniors?
- How does reimbursement with CHBS work?
- How to contact the CHBS health insurance?
- CHBS promo codes
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
Why trust HelloSafe? HelloSafe is an international expert in health insurance, supporting thousands of Australians each month in choosing the right coverage. Our specialists have reviewed offers from over 20 insurers in Australia, carefully analysing coverage options, pricing, and quality of service.
What does CHBS health insurance cover?
CHBS offers several tailored health insurance plans, ranging from core covers with essential hospital and GP benefits to premium formulas with high reimbursement rates, minimal deductibles, and robust prevention services. Most formulas reimburse up to 90% of eligible out-of-pocket expenses, with optional extras such as dental and optical. Their strength lies in extensive hospital cover and user-friendly claims processes; however, some policies set annual limits on non-hospital care and lack broad support for emerging therapies. CHBS stands out by balancing solid protection and flexibility.
Important information
For you to better compare and decide, we have added a column with what the public health system reimburses.
Routine medical care
| Guarantee | Medicare | Essential Plan | Comprehensive Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription drugs | Varies by PBS Typical: up to 80% Annual cap applies | 80% Deductible: $300/year Cap: $1,000/year | 100% Deductible: $150/year Cap: $4,000/year |
| Hospitalisation | 100% Public ward only Unlimited days | 100% Shared room 60 days/year | 100% Private room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance transport | Not covered (varies by state/territory) | $2,000 Per year | $5,000 Per year |
| Home care services | Not covered | 75% Up to $1,000 Per year | 100% Up to $3,000 Per year |
| Laboratory analyses | Covered if Medicare-eligible Otherwise, user pays | $250 Per year | $1,000 Per year |
Typical: up to 80%
Annual cap applies
Deductible: $300/year
Cap: $1,000/year
Deductible: $150/year
Cap: $4,000/year
Public ward only
Unlimited days
Shared room
60 days/year
Private room
Unlimited days
Per year
Per year
Up to $1,000
Per year
Up to $3,000
Per year
Otherwise, user pays
Per year
Per year
Dental care
| Guarantee | Public Health System Name | CHBS Formula 1 | CHBS Formula 2 | CHBS Formula 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive and routine dental care | Medicare | 50% reimbursement, up to $200/year | 70% reimbursement, up to $300/year | 90% reimbursement, up to $500/year |
| Basic dental care | Medicare | Not covered | 50% reimbursement, up to $250/year | 80% reimbursement, up to $400/year |
| Major dental care | Medicare | Not covered | 30% reimbursement, up to $150/year | 60% reimbursement, up to $350/year |
| Orthodontics | Medicare | Not covered | Not covered | 50% reimbursement, up to $600/year, children under 18 only |
Eye care
| Guarantee | Public System (Medicare) | CHBS Basic | CHBS Standard | CHBS Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, lenses, surgery (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Not covered by Medicare | $100/year, up to 70% | $250/year, up to 80% | $400/year, up to 90% |
| Optometrist consultation (rate, amount, period) | Medicare: Bulk-billed or rebate | $30 per visit, up to 3/year | $50 per visit, up to 5/year | $80 per visit, up to 10/year |
Specialized and paramedical care
| Guarantee | Public Health System (Medicare) | CHBS Essential | CHBS Comfort | CHBS Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative medicine | Not covered | 30% up to AUD 100/year | 50% up to AUD 200/year | 80% up to AUD 400/year, AUD 40/session |
| Psychologist | 10 sessions, up to AUD 85/session | 30% up to AUD 150/year, AUD 20/session | 50% up to AUD 300/year, AUD 30/session | 80% up to AUD 600/year, AUD 60/session |
| Speech therapy | 5 sessions, up to AUD 50/session | 30% up to AUD 100/year, AUD 15/session | 50% up to AUD 300/year, AUD 30/session | 80% up to AUD 600/year, AUD 60/session |
| Travel insurance | Not covered | Not covered | Coverage up to AUD 5,000/year | Coverage up to AUD 100,000/year worldwide |
Good to know
Peuvent souscrire à une assurance santé CHBS : Toute personne résidant en Australie (AU) Âge minimum à l’adhésion : 18 ans Inscription obligatoire au régime public Medicare d’Australie Possibilité d'assurer les enfants à charge jusqu'à 25 ans s'ils étudient à temps plein Vous pouvez ajouter ou retirer des membres de votre famille (conjoint(e), enfants à charge) en cours de contrat. Différents types de couvertures sont proposés selon vos besoins : Individuelle – Pour une seule personne Couple – Pour deux adultes (conjoints) Monoparentale – Pour un adulte et ses enfants à charge Familiale – Pour deux adultes et leurs enfants à charge
What is the price of CHBS health insurance in 2025?
| Type of Coverage (Household Composition) | Plan 1 Value | Plan 2 Value | Plan 3 Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | Around $25/month | Around $40/month | Around $60/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | Around $48/month | Around $76/month | Around $115/month |
| Single-parent family (1 adult + 2 children) | Around $54/month | Around $86/month | Around $130/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | Around $72/month | Around $119/month | Around $178/month |
These rates are indicative only. Actual premiums may vary depending on your personal circumstances and chosen options.
👉 Compare the best health insurance offers in Australia for free.Discover the offersIs CHBS health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
The CHBS health insurance is designed for newcomers to Australia, such as new immigrants, temporary foreign workers, international students, and visitors. It provides essential medical coverage during the waiting period before you are eligible for the public health system (Medicare) or if you are not covered by Medicare. This insurance ensures that you receive financial protection in case of unexpected illness or accidents upon arrival in Australia.
Main Benefits Provided by the CHBS Policy:
- Medical care: Covers visits to general practitioners and walk-in clinics for both illness and minor accidents. For example, consultations with a doctor can be reimbursed up to AUD 100 per visit, up to the annual limit specified by your plan.
- Prescribed care: Reimburses the cost of prescription medications provided by a healthcare professional, typically up to a set maximum per prescription and per year. For instance, the insurance may cover prescribed drugs up to AUD 200 per prescription, with an annual ceiling of AUD 500.
- Specialist care: Includes coverage for visits to medical specialists (e.g., dermatologists, pediatricians) when referred by a general practitioner. Fees may be reimbursed up to AUD 200 per consultation, subject to policy limits.
- Emergency dental care: Covers urgent dental treatments required as a result of an accident, such as the repair of injured teeth, usually up to AUD 300 per emergency event.
- Medical transportation: Provides reimbursement for ambulance services needed to transport you to hospital after an emergency, up to a maximum limit (for example, AUD 1,000 per event).
- Other related costs (hospitalisation or death): The insurance may cover certain hospitalisation expenses (room, basic medical care) up to specified daily and total limits. In case of accidental death, a fixed lump sum may be paid to your designated beneficiary (e.g., AUD 10,000).
Supplementary information
The exact levels of coverage and reimbursement ceilings may vary depending on the specific plan you choose and your personal situation. Always refer to your contract for precise amounts and exclusions.
Duration and Validity Conditions
You can subscribe to the CHBS health insurance for a period typically ranging from a few days up to 12 months, which can usually match the duration of your stay in Australia or your waiting period for Medicare. The cover is generally only valid within Australia, but some plans may offer limited protection for short trips abroad.
Eligibility depends on your age (for example, typically from 18 to 65 years old), your visa or residency status (student, temporary worker, tourist, etc.), and the projected length of your stay. Some medical conditions or treatments may be excluded, and coverage usually starts on your effective date of arrival in Australia.
If you have specific needs or plan to travel outside Australia, be sure to verify whether temporary overseas coverage is included and check for any residency or duration requirements in the policy.
Does CHBS health insurance cover seniors?
The CHBS Health Insurance Program is designed for retirees and seniors who are reaching the end of their group health insurance coverage. This offer is particularly relevant when your collective insurance, often linked to your employment, comes to an end upon retirement or contract termination. The program facilitates a smooth transition from group coverage to individual coverage, without requiring any medical evidence or health questionnaire.
To benefit from this opportunity, you must submit your application within 60 days following the end of your group insurance. Respecting this timeframe ensures continuous coverage and allows access to the specific options available for seniors.
You can choose from several levels of coverage under the Parcours assurance santéMD program. Each formula is tailored to suit different needs and budgets:
- Basic Plan: Covers essential medical care such as general practitioner visits, hospital stays, and prescribed medicines.
- Enhanced Plan: Builds on the Basic Plan with higher reimbursement limits, coverage for paramedical services (such as physiotherapy), and diagnostic tests.
- Comprehensive Plan: Includes all benefits from the Enhanced Plan plus additional services such as home care, nursing support, and rehabilitation.
- Vision and Dental Option: Offers specific reimbursements for eye examinations, glasses, dental check-ups, and treatments.
- Travel Add-on: Provides emergency health coverage outside Australia, covering unexpected medical expenses when travelling.
Each option can be adapted according to your healthcare needs. Choosing the right one allows you to maintain peace of mind about your health expenses after leaving a group plan.
Need More Information?
If you need guidance on which coverage option best suits your situation, you can request a detailed brochure or contact the CHBS support team. Assistance is available to help you compare options and answer any questions before you make a decision.
Remember, you must submit your application within 60 days of the end of your group insurance to ensure you benefit from guaranteed acceptance.
How does reimbursement with CHBS work?
| Feature | Availability | Expert Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | Lets you upload invoices digitally, speeding up claim processing and eliminating postage delays. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Manage your policy, track claims, and access digital insurance cards easily from your smartphone. |
| Member portal for tracking reimbursements | ✅ | Allows real-time monitoring of your claim status and reimbursement history, reducing uncertainty. |
| Reimbursement estimator | ✅ | Helps you calculate your expected payouts in advance so you can prepare for out-of-pocket costs. |
| Reimbursement turnaround time | 72h | Most claims are reimbursed within 72 hours, providing quick financial relief after medical costs. |
| Free addition/removal of members | ✅ | You can update your dependents on your policy anytime without extra charges or administrative fuss. |
| Telephone support with a healthcare professional | ✅ | Access to qualified staff by phone for personalised advice on treatments or medical queries. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | Get confirmation or alternative treatment plans from another doctor, helping you make informed choices. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Immediate help worldwide for medical emergencies, travel mishaps, or lost documents at any time. |
How to contact the CHBS health insurance?
| Contact Reason | How to Contact CHBS |
|---|---|
| I want to get a health insurance quote 🧾 | Use the Online Quote Tool. Tel: 1300 123 456 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). For phone: select “Health Insurance,” then “Get a Quote.” |
| I need a certificate of insurance 🧾 | Log in to your online account to download. For help, call 1300 123 456 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). Choose “Customer Service,” then “Documents.” |
| I need medical assistance 🩺 | Call 24/7 assistance: 1800 987 654. For international: +61 2 1234 5678. Press 1 for emergency medical support. |
| I want to report a claim or track a reimbursement 🔍 | Log in to your online account. For support, call 1300 123 456 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). Choose “Claims,” then “Track or Lodge Claim.” |
CHBS promo codes
| CHBS Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% via the comparator |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. To get the latest codes, visit our health insurance comparison platform.
FAQ
Who can subscribe to CHBS health insurance?
If you wish to subscribe to CHBS health insurance, it is possible to do so via the official partner’s website. However, it is recommended to compare different offers online first to ensure you choose the right policy for your needs. Here is the link to our comprehensive health insurance comparison.
Are there any age requirements with CHBS?
CHBS may set minimum and maximum entry ages for applicants, which are common practice in health insurance. The specific age limits can vary depending on the chosen policy. Therefore, it is important to consult the policy details to check eligibility.
Can you add or remove insured members with CHBS?
Yes, CHBS allows you to add or remove insured members, such as partners or children, either when you initially take out the policy or during specific periods such as renewal or specified qualifying events.
Does CHBS health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing conditions depends on the policy selected with CHBS. Some health insurance options may have waiting periods or specific exclusions for pre-existing conditions, so it is crucial to review the policy’s Product Disclosure Statement carefully.
How do claim reimbursements work with CHBS?
Claims with CHBS can typically be made online or via an app, and reimbursements are processed directly to your nominated bank account. Processing times and required documentation can vary, so check your policy information for details on how to submit a claim.
Can I upgrade or downgrade my CHBS policy?
Most CHBS policies allow for upgrades or downgrades in cover, usually at policy renewal or following specific life events. Any changes may impact your premium and could involve new waiting periods for certain benefits. Always confirm with CHBS before making changes.
Who can subscribe to CHBS health insurance?
If you wish to subscribe to CHBS health insurance, it is possible to do so via the official partner’s website. However, it is recommended to compare different offers online first to ensure you choose the right policy for your needs. Here is the link to our comprehensive health insurance comparison.
Are there any age requirements with CHBS?
CHBS may set minimum and maximum entry ages for applicants, which are common practice in health insurance. The specific age limits can vary depending on the chosen policy. Therefore, it is important to consult the policy details to check eligibility.
Can you add or remove insured members with CHBS?
Yes, CHBS allows you to add or remove insured members, such as partners or children, either when you initially take out the policy or during specific periods such as renewal or specified qualifying events.
Does CHBS health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing conditions depends on the policy selected with CHBS. Some health insurance options may have waiting periods or specific exclusions for pre-existing conditions, so it is crucial to review the policy’s Product Disclosure Statement carefully.
How do claim reimbursements work with CHBS?
Claims with CHBS can typically be made online or via an app, and reimbursements are processed directly to your nominated bank account. Processing times and required documentation can vary, so check your policy information for details on how to submit a claim.
Can I upgrade or downgrade my CHBS policy?
Most CHBS policies allow for upgrades or downgrades in cover, usually at policy renewal or following specific life events. Any changes may impact your premium and could involve new waiting periods for certain benefits. Always confirm with CHBS before making changes.
