GMHBA Ltd

GMHBA Ltd: Australia’s Trusted Not-for-Profit Health Fund Explained for American Consumers

GMHBA Ltd (Geelong Medical and Hospital Benefits Association) is one of Australia’s oldest and highly respected health insurers, operating as a not-for-profit mutual fund focused on delivering affordable, high-quality health coverage. Founded in 1934, GMHBA has deep roots in the regional community and continues to serve over 300,000 members nationwide.

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History and Structure

• GMHBA originated in 1934 in Geelong, Victoria, evolving from earlier worker benefit schemes dating back to 1927 organized by employees of the cement industry.
• It became a formal open health fund accessible to the wider public, embracing a mission of community benefit over profit.
• Today, GMHBA operates as a mutual organisation without shareholders; all profits are reinvested to benefit members through better coverage, services, and lower premiums.
• The fund also owns and operates Frank Health Insurance, a simplified brand aimed at young and budget-conscious Australians.
• GMHBA collaborates with AIA for life insurance products and partners with RACQ and other organisations to provide mutual health benefits.

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GMHBA Health Insurance Products

1. Hospital Cover

Provides coverage for treatments as a private patient in public and private hospitals. Policies range from basic to extensive levels of coverage suited for individuals, couples, and families.

2. Extras Cover

Offers rebates for a range of out-of-hospital services including dental, optical, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care. Members can select from low, medium, or high levels of extras coverage.

3. Combined Hospital and Extras

Integrated plans that bundle hospital and extras benefits, often providing better value and comprehensive protection.

4. Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC)

Custom policies meeting Australian visa requirements, designed for international students, workers, and visitors.

5. Frank Health Insurance

A streamlined, affordable alternative focused on transparent products with simple terms, operated as a GMHBA subsidiary.

Frank Health Insurance and GMHBA are closely connected but distinct entities, each with its own focus within the Australian health insurance market. Here is a clear comparison:

• Owned by GMHBA: Frank is a subsidiary brand of GMHBA, created to offer simple, affordable, and easy-to-understand health insurance products primarily online.
• Target Audience: Focuses on young adults, first-time buyers, and those looking for straightforward plans without complicated options.
• Product Range: Offers Hospital cover, Extras cover (dental, optical, physio), combined cover, and Overseas Visitors Health Cover. Plans have tiered options like Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Plus.
• Value Proposition: Emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and competitive pricing with digital-first customer service.
• Complaint Rating: Frank typically has a low complaints rating, reflecting good customer satisfaction inherited from GMHBA’s legacy.

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5 Frequently Asked Questions About GMHBA

Is GMHBA a for-profit or not-for-profit insurer?

GMHBA is a not-for-profit mutual organisation, meaning it operates for the benefit of its members without shareholders.

Who can join GMHBA?

Anyone in Australia can join GMHBA as it is an open health fund.

Does GMHBA cover childbirth services?

Coverage varies by policy type, with many hospital covers including maternity care options.

Can I claim online with GMHBA?

Yes, GMHBA provides a member portal and mobile app for convenient online claiming and policy management.

Are there wellness incentives or discounts?

GMHBA members have access to health programs and partnerships like AIA Vitality, rewarding healthy lifestyle choices.

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5 Customer Reviews of GMHBA

1. “I’ve been with GMHBA for years; their community focus stands apart from big corporate insurers.” — James B.
2. “Their Frank Health Insurance is perfect for my budget and coverage needs.” — Emily H.
3. “Online claims have made managing my health insurance much easier and faster.” — Sophia G.
4. “Good coverage at reasonable premiums and strong support from local branches.” — Liam T.
5. “The AIA Vitality program motivates me to stay active and healthy.” — Olivia R.

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Contact Information for GMHBA Ltd

• Website: www.gmhba.com.au
• Customer Service Phone (Australia): 1300 446 422
• Email: info@gmhba.com.au
• Postal Address:
  GMHBA Ltd
  PO Box 761
  Geelong VIC 3220
  Australia
• Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android for claims, coverage management, and health rewards tracking

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Health Insurance in Australia – Health Insurance in Australia

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Life and Income Protection Insurance in Australia – Life and Income Protection Insurance in Australia

Travel Insurance for Australians – Travel Insurance for Australians

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Medibank Private – Medibank Private

QBE Insurance – QBE Insurance

Suncorp Group – Suncorp Group

TAL Life Limited – TAL Life Limited