Burnt out Aussies rush to health appointments before end of year

Bupa research has revealed that 70 per cent of working Aussies have experienced burnout as demand for last-minute health appointments surges in December.

The data also suggests that almost one in four feel work is a barrier to maintaining their health, with 30 percent of Aussies saying they are too busy to properly maintain their wellbeing, including 45 per cent of parents.

Amidst these year-round time pressures, Australians are hurrying to secure healthcare appointments ahead of the festive season, with a notable increase in last-minute bookings for optical, dental, and physiotherapy services as people look to maximise their Extras benefits. Data from Bupa Optical suggests appointments spike 30 per cent in December compared to the rest of the year.

Bupa Health Services Clinical Director Dr Tony MacDermott said our modern, busy lifestyles means that often we relegate health appointments to the ‘to-do later’ list or when our health deteriorates, particularly in the lead up to the silly season.

“Appointments like dental check-ups and eye tests are important health activities for Australians of all ages, but we continue to see many people deferring these,” Dr MacDermott said.

Across 2025, the most popular Extras claims were dental, physiotherapy, chiropractic, optometry and remedial massage.

Dr MacDermott also encouraged Australians to take practical steps to ensure they can start 2026 off on a healthy note.

“The new year is also a great opportunity to think about your health goals and what you might need to incorporate into your lifestyle to feel your best, both physically and mentally. An open conversation with a trusted health professional is the best place to start.”

With cost-of-living continuing to impact Australians, Bupa claims data shows approximately 1 million health insurance customers received no-gap preventative dental treatments such as general check-ups over the past year. Eligible customers have also collectively saved $15.5 million by claiming 100 per cent back on 358,000 general dental fillings through Bupa’s market-leading Members First Ultimate benefit.

Claims data also shows, the highest total benefits have been paid out for the removal of calculus, physiotherapy, dental x-rays with full crowns among the highest where the average benefit has been $845.

The new year is also a good time for Australians to review their health insurance policy to ensure it meets their current health and wellbeing needs.

ENDS

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