Understanding your hospital options
If you have hospital cover, you have a few options when receiving treatment. You can be treated as:
a public patient in a public hospital,
a private patient in a public hospital, or
a private patient in a private hospital.
Each option offers different levels of choice, timing and potential costs.
Being treated as a public patient (public hospital)
If you choose to be treated as a public patient:
Your treatment is covered by Medicare
You are treated by the hospital’s available doctors
For non-urgent procedures, you may experience longer wait times
Being treated as a private patient in a public hospital
If you choose to use your hospital cover in a public hospital:
You may be able to choose your doctor (where available)
You may have more control over your treatment timing
Westfund helps cover the cost of your hospital stay
However:
There may be out-of-pocket costs, depending on your doctor and treatment
Not all services or specialists may be available privately in public hospitals
Being treated as a private patient in a private hospital
If you choose to be treated in a private hospital:
You can usually choose your doctor or specialist
You usually will have shorter wait times for planned procedures
You’ll typically have more control over when and where you’re treated
Westfund contributes to your hospital costs based on your level of cover
However:
There may be out-of-pocket costs, depending on your doctor, hospital and treatment
Some services may have waiting periods, exclusions or restrictions depending on your cover
Things to consider
Choosing the right option will depend on your personal situation, including:
The urgency of your treatment
Whether you want to choose your doctor
Potential out-of-pocket costs
Waiting times for planned procedures
Making the right choice for you
All options provide access to care. The right choice comes down to what matters most to you - whether that’s timing, choice, or cost. If you’re unsure, we’re here to help. You can:
Speak with your doctor or specialist
Contact Westfund before your admission to understand what’s covered