Health Cover on WHV

William F

Hello

I sustained an injury in Ireland before I arrived in NZ over a month ago. My doctor at home advised me to go see the GP here for a check up to see how I'm recovering.

I have checked the prices for an appointment and its 66 dollars. It's pretty reasonable.

However, I want to know if there is a better option such as health insurance available because I am afraid that doctor's appointments might become a regular occurrence while I'm here.

Kind Regards

Rosy Posy

I was on WHV when we came here first and my full maternity care was provided free of charge under a reciprocal agreement between the kiwi and Irish governments so it might be worth looking into that- maybe check with the consulate? Also as far as GP costs are concerned if you're going to be in one spot for a while it might be cheaper if you register with a GP. The prices are tiered according to the socio-economic means of the area- so a GP visit in an affluent area will be more expensive than a poorer area. As regards health insurance, you will not get cover for a preexisting condition- insurance companies are bastards!

MrCreosote

I'd strongly recommend getting insurance, although it can be tricky now that you've arrived. Worth checking if you've Irish health insurance if they cover you for some of your time in NZ too.

WHV from Ireland doesn't qualify you for subsidised services, only a 2 year work visa or residence visa. Accidents and maternity are separate. It doesn't make too much difference for a GP visit (say $60-80 versus $40-50 a visit), but if you needed to go to hospital for a nonaccident reason the prices get pretty eye-watering.

Current conditions are excluded from insurance generally, but its fairly cheap for young people compared with the Irish insurers.

Mrs OBumble

What does your travel insurance cover?