Chronic lung condition: how health cover can help

Many Australians suffer from chronic respiratory conditions, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma. These conditions can certainly interfere with daily life --yet when they are actively managed, there is a much better chance of reducing symptoms and living a full life.

The good news is, if you have private health insurance, there are lots of ways you might be able to use your cover to help you manage your condition.

If you suffer from a chronic lung condition, here are some tips for managing your condition — and how Medibank might be able to help.

Visit your GP

Your first stop should always be your doctor, as they can assess your symptoms and can provide you with a referral if necessary.

If you suffer from asthma or COPD, your GP may talk you about having an action plan in place to help you stay on top of your symptoms when they first appear. An action plan includes all the information you need to look after your condition, such as details of how to manage symptoms, how to recognise if your symptoms are getting worse, and gives you a clear strategy for how to handle an asthma or COPD emergency.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

Being overweight can put extra strain on your lungs and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help you manage your condition.

Exercise will help you feel better and can have profound benefits on your overall health — but remember to discuss your fitness plans with your doctor first. If you’re looking for fun and free activities that you can do in your own home, check out our Live Better activities. Medibank members also get access to our Member Offers for great deals such as discounted gym entry.

Eating a well-balanced diet it also important. You can visit Medibank’s Live Better for lots of expert healthy eating advice and delicious healthy recipe ideas.

Get expert health advice

All Medibank health insurance members can chat to a registered nurse with 24/7 Medibank Nurse Support at no extra cost.^* Call 1800 644 325 or log in anytime of the day or night.

If you need support around mental health or wellbeing you can chat to a mental health professional with 24/7 Medibank Mental Health Support. And if you’re looking for more information on how to look after your wellbeing visit Medibank Better Minds. 

Do you need to go to hospital?

Complications from a chronic lung condition could lead to hospitalisation. If you end up going to hospital for surgery or a procedure, make sure you’re fully informed before you go.

Before you commit to a specialist or procedure, ask your doctor any questions you might have. And if you’re a Medibank member, it’s always a good idea to call us on 132 331. We can help you understand what out-of-pocket costs you are likely to encounter, and what you can expect from your hospital stay. Health concierge is also available and can provide you with personalised health support to help you prepare for, or recover from, a hospital stay or treatment.

Hospital Assist is also a valuable resource to prepare you for your hospital admission. You can find out more about potential out of pocket costs and how health insurance could help manage the costs. And you can get lots of practical information and advice from our going to hospital guide.

Health services

Looking for more support to help you manage your health conditions in the long-term? Visit our health services page to find out more. 

For more information, or to check that you have the best cover for your condition, talk to our team on 1300 982 419 or chat to our friendly staff online for advice and help with your health cover.