Vein Care - Insurance for Vein Treatments

Most insurers will cover surgical and non-surgical treatments for varicose veins. Certain medical need criteria must be met however, and you will be told during your consultation or scan whether or not you are eligible to apply for insurance cover.

Small veins with no underlying bigger problem are considered cosmetic and are NOT usually covered by insurance.

Southern Cross Health Insurance:

Vein & laser is an “Affiliated Provider” for Southern Cross. This means that provided you meet their criteria for medical need, we are able to claim for the consultation, scan and varicose vein treatment directly.

This is done online to Southern Cross on your behalf, and there is no need for you to get prior approval. The consultation is claimed for first before any treatment is undertaken, then the level of cover is known and whether or not the claim is accepted. It is great system and works well for all concerned.

All you need to do is provide Vein & Laser with your Southern Cross membership number and we do the rest.

Southern Cross will send you a letter informing you that they have made a payment to Vein & Laser and what for, and whether or not you need to make any co-payment. This would be the case if you have 80% cover.

Southern Cross does not cover treatment for small or spider veins.

Other Health Insurers:

You are advised to check with your insurer before starting any treatment to find out if you have cover and what they require from you and the clinic involved.

Usually the initial consultation fee of $100 with Dr Elisabeth De Felice is covered. Some insurers require you to see a “Specialist” which means a surgeon. Please mention this when making an appointment for the consultation and we will arrange it for you with Mr. Stan Govender.

During the initial consultation, Elisabeth or Stan will recommend and outline your treatment options and inform you of the costs involved. If you require a letter to support your claim ask the consultant. Send this and any invoices to that point to the insurance company.

The insurer usually responds by letter informing you of the procedures or treatment they will cover and the amount they will pay. You will know at this time whether there is any shortfall that you will have to pay.

There is often a time limit (e.g. 60 days) during which you must have the treatment, or you will need to reapply for approval.

You will be given invoices for any procedures or treatment, which you then forward to the insurance company. The insurer makes payment directly to the clinic, and Vein & Laser will invoice you for any shortfall.

Some insurers do cover sclerotherapy for smaller veins.

Keep copies of everything submitted and keep notes of any conversations with your insurer.

Making a claim is usually very straightforward, but Christine will assist you if you have any problems. Give her a call on 0800 085 555, email info@veinandlaser.co.nz or fill out our online form  if you need some help.

Southern Cross - www.southerncross.co.nz