Aussies are being urged to prioritise their health and wellbeing with research revealing more than 40 per cent feel cost or time pressures are the main barrier standing in their way.
With the end of year approaching, Australians are being encouraged to make the most from their health insurance and book any medical appointments they might have forgotten or missed in 2023.
The Bupa Pulse Check study also revealed that of the 38 per cent of Australians who say they’re struggling to maintain their health and wellbeing, 50 per cent feel cost was a barrier with the survey also showing women faced more hurdles than men when it comes to improving their health and wellbeing.
Bupa health insurance data shows dental check-ups were the most common extras claimed with optical, physiotherapy, mental health and pharmacy also among the most common claims.
Bupa Dental Managing Director Dr Ros Blakley said addressing cost of living issues for patients was a major focus in the current inflationary environment and now offers gap-free simple dental fillings, mouthguards and check-ups to health insurance members who visit Bupa Dental.
“With the average filling costing about $220 we know this will be a welcome change for our customers,” Dr Blakley said.
“If you have been too busy and haven’t had a dental check-up this year, it’s definitely a good idea to book one in now while appointments are still available for 2023 as regular dental checks are vital in ensuring the health of your mouth along with your general health,”.
The lead-up to Christmas is the busiest time of the year to secure common appointments like dental check-ups, eye-tests and physio appointments as people look to get their yearly check-ups and use up their Extras limits before their health insurance Extras reset on January 1, 2024.
Bupa Optical appointments peak during December and experience a 30 per cent increase in appointments compared to the yearly average with customers looking to purchase new prescription sunglasses with the holidays approaching or new glasses while they still have their 2023 Extras benefits available.
Bupa Health Insurance Director Andrew Wilkinson said: “Now is the time to tick off the things on your to-do list before the busy festive season begins.
“It’s also a good time to review your policy to make sure it meets your current health and wellbeing needs.”
Australians needing their teeth or eyes checked should contact their local Bupa Dental practice or Bupa Optical store respectively to ensure they can secure an appointment before the end of the year.
To find your nearest Bupa Dental practice visit here
To find your nearest Bupa Optical store visit here
Please contact:
Eli Grynberg
External Communications Manager, Bupa
Email: eli.grynberg@bupa.com.au
Mob: 0401 135 713
