Medibank Pet Insurance 2025: Comprehensive Review for the United States
Our expert's opinion on Medibank
Medibank Pet Insurance offers a trio of comprehensive plans—Pet Protect, Pet Plus, and Pet Max—designed for owners wanting accident and illness coverage for dogs and cats, with maximum annual payouts from $10,000 up to $30,000 depending on the plan and reimbursement rates ranging from 70% to 90%; sub-limits apply to entry-level Pet Protect only, and all plans allow $0 deductible. Positioned as a mid-to-premium option, Medibank stands out for the inclusion or add-on of Extra Care (dental, therapies, behavioral treatment up to $2,000), high annual benefit limits, flexible deductibles, and modern benefits like GapOnly® real-time claims, though its pricing typically trends above discount insurers and aligns with other specialist pet insurance brands. The product is best suited to owners of young-to-midlife cats and dogs—especially purebreds or those requiring optional specialized care—with preference for predictable, high-cap benefits and multi-pet options but less focus on preventive or chronic care. Underwritten by market leader PetSure (PetSure, a leading APAC underwriter, manages >$600M annual Australian premium across partners), Medibank demonstrates strong financial backing but holds a low Trustpilot TrustScore of 1.5/5 (82 reviews), with frequent complaints of poor service, unclear claims, and long reimbursement times (anecdotal user reports indicate weeks, not days, for claim payouts), highlighting below-average user satisfaction compared to main competitors.
- ✅Three clear plans for varied budgets and needs
- ✅High annual limits—up to $30,000 (Pet Max)
- ✅Reimbursement up to 90% on Pet Max plan
- ✅Optional or included Extra Care (dental, therapy, behavioral)
- ✅Zero-dollar deductible available on all plans
- ✅GapOnly®: on-the-spot partial claim payment at network vets
- ✅Flexible enrollment and multi-pet discounts
- ❌Low customer satisfaction (1.5 Trustpilot, 82 reviews)
- ❌No cover for preventive or chronic/pre-existing conditions
- ❌Long or unpredictable claim reimbursement times
- ❌Exclusions and sub-limits on entry plan (Pet Protect)
- ❌Annual premium increases and limited transparency
- ✅Three clear plans for varied budgets and needs
- ✅High annual limits—up to $30,000 (Pet Max)
- ✅Reimbursement up to 90% on Pet Max plan
- ✅Optional or included Extra Care (dental, therapy, behavioral)
- ✅Zero-dollar deductible available on all plans
- ✅GapOnly®: on-the-spot partial claim payment at network vets
- ✅Flexible enrollment and multi-pet discounts
Our expert's opinion on Medibank
- ✅Three clear plans for varied budgets and needs
- ✅High annual limits—up to $30,000 (Pet Max)
- ✅Reimbursement up to 90% on Pet Max plan
- ✅Optional or included Extra Care (dental, therapy, behavioral)
- ✅Zero-dollar deductible available on all plans
- ✅GapOnly®: on-the-spot partial claim payment at network vets
- ✅Flexible enrollment and multi-pet discounts
- ❌Low customer satisfaction (1.5 Trustpilot, 82 reviews)
- ❌No cover for preventive or chronic/pre-existing conditions
- ❌Long or unpredictable claim reimbursement times
- ❌Exclusions and sub-limits on entry plan (Pet Protect)
- ❌Annual premium increases and limited transparency
- ✅Three clear plans for varied budgets and needs
- ✅High annual limits—up to $30,000 (Pet Max)
- ✅Reimbursement up to 90% on Pet Max plan
- ✅Optional or included Extra Care (dental, therapy, behavioral)
- ✅Zero-dollar deductible available on all plans
- ✅GapOnly®: on-the-spot partial claim payment at network vets
- ✅Flexible enrollment and multi-pet discounts
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, over one million users in the US trust us each month to guide them in their most important financial decisions.
The Guarantees of Medibank
Medibank offers three distinct pet insurance plans—Pet Protect, Pet Plus, and Pet Max—aimed at dog and cat owners seeking partial reimbursement for eligible accident or specified illness claims, with annual reimbursement rates from 70% to 90% and difference in annual benefit caps.
The Extra Care option (specialized therapies, advanced dental, behavioral consults) is included in Pet Max and available as an add-on with the lower-tier plans, providing flexibility but with an annual sublimit.
All policies exclude preventive care and chronic or pre-existing conditions, and Pet Protect features notable internal sublimits which may reduce value for frequent claims.
Key strengths are the high annual caps on Plus and Max, full 90% reimbursement in Max, no breed restrictions, lifetime renewal if subscribed before 9 years, and a direct rebate system (GapOnly®) at participating clinics.
Weaknesses include no wellness package, absence of coverage for chronic/pre-existing or preventive care, and the presence of per-incident caps and exclusions that may erode value for some owners.
Compare Medibank's three pet insurance plans below to find the coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Name of coverage | Pet Protect | Pet Plus | Pet Max |
---|---|---|---|
Plan positioning | Entry-level, basic yet includes Extra Care as option | Mid-range, higher cap, fewer sublimits | Premium, very high annual limits; Extra Care included |
Type of coverage | Accidents and specified illnesses | Accidents and specified illnesses | Accidents and specified illnesses + Extra Care |
Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
Reimbursement rate (%) | Up to 70% | Up to 80% | Up to 90% |
Annual reimbursement limit | Up to $10,000 | Up to $25,000 | Up to $30,000 |
Deductible (annual or per claim) | Customizable (including $0 option) | Customizable (including $0 option) | Customizable (including $0 option) |
Age limits for enrollment (for dogs/cats) | 8 weeks–9 years at policy start | 8 weeks–9 years at policy start | 8 weeks–9 years at policy start |
Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Not Communicated | Not Communicated | Not Communicated |
Waiting period (illness) | Not Communicated | Not Communicated | Not Communicated |
Waiting period (accident) | Not Communicated | Not Communicated | Not Communicated |
Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ as long as policy remains available | ✅ as long as policy remains available | ✅ as long as policy remains available |
Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ Sub-limits apply | ✅ Unlimited | ✅ Unlimited |
Medications | ✅ Subject to limits | ✅ Subject to limits | ✅ Subject to limits (+Extra Care) |
Hospitalization | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ Sub-limits for hip/cross ligament surgery | ✅ | ✅ |
Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ Sub-limits may apply | ✅ | ✅ |
Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Option Extra Care ($2,000 cap/year) | Option Extra Care ($2,000 cap/year) | Included, $2,000/year cap |
Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | Option Extra Care ($2,000 cap/year) | Option Extra Care ($2,000 cap/year) | Included, $2,000/year cap |
Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | Not Communicated | Not Communicated | Not Communicated |
Civil liability | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
Euthanasia | ✅ On veterinarian recommendation | ✅ On veterinarian recommendation | ✅ On veterinarian recommendation |
Death & cremation coverage | ❌ (no info) | ❌ (no info) | ❌ (no info) |
Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
Policy Conditions and Exclusions
GapOnly® is available at participating vet clinics, letting policyholders pay only their share directly at the point of service.
Annual limits increase by plan, but Pet Protect uses internal sublimits for consultations and some surgeries.
All plans are available only to pets under 9 years old at signup, but coverage is renewable for life if continuous.
Behavioral and dental care are subject to the annual “Extra Care” sublimit, included in Pet Max or optional in other plans.
Chronic/pre-existing and preventive care (vaccines, microchipping, etc.) are not covered.
Medibank Exclusions
Medibank applies industry-standard exclusions, such as pre-existing conditions, preventive care, ongoing chronic illnesses recognized before insurance began, and non-listed elective procedures, but goes further by enforcing strict sub-limits on select plans for consultations, tick paralysis, and orthopedic surgeries.
Notably, Medibank excludes all preventive care (grooming, wellness, food, vaccination, dental prophylaxis), which cannot be added through base tiers; only the Extra Care option (included in Pet Max or as an add-on) partially restores coverage for some therapies and dental treatments, but limits these to AUD 2,000 per year.
Spay/neuter, elective/cosmetic procedures, and treatment related to breeding or pregnancy are never covered, and stricter age and species eligibility also apply.
Another distinctive exclusion is the requirement to pre-pay vet fees and seek reimbursement, with no systematic direct payment solution except where GapOnly® is available at select clinics.
As a result, Medibank’s exclusions list is more restrictive for those seeking broad dental, routine, or full chronic disease cover, but in line with competitive Australian pet insurance offerings for accidents and major illnesses.
Exclusions | Details |
---|---|
Medical exclusions |
|
Preventive & wellness |
|
Dental exclusions |
|
Geographic exclusions |
|
Financial & administrative |
|
Species & enrollment |
|
- Pre-existing conditions (including chronic or recurring conditions before coverage)
- Chronic illnesses prior to start date
- Conditions/surgeries not specifically listed
- Breed-specific or hereditary exclusions as outlined in policy
- Procedures for breeding, pregnancy, or birth
- Spay/neuter (except when medically necessary)
- Routine check-ups
- Vaccinations
- Dental prophylaxis (scaling, cleaning)
- Grooming, baths, nail trimming
- Dietary food and nutritional supplements
- Parasite prevention (unless policyholder has routine care add-on, which is not insurance)
- Prophylaxis and preventive cleans
- Orthodontic/cosmetic procedures
- Elective dental surgery
- Extractions not linked to covered illnesses/accidents unless with Extra Care
- Not valid for treatment outside Australia
- (No coverage for international travel or relocation)
- Costs exceeding policy sub-limits or annual maximum
- Vet fees not paid up front except via GapOnly® partners
- Non-medical administrative or “gap” charges
- Claims for uncovered procedures/items
- Only dogs and cats, between 8 weeks and under 9 years at enrollment
- No coverage for other animals or outside age eligibility
Medibank Prices
Medibank positions itself as a mid-range provider in the Australian pet insurance market, offering flexible plans that span from accident-only to comprehensive coverage with Extra Care.
While reimbursement percentages of up to 90% and high annual limits, especially for the Pet Max plan, push premiums above basic players, the ability to customize deductibles and the inclusion of advanced coverages justifies the investment for many pet owners.
The availability of options such as Routine Care (non-insurance) and wellness services—though with itemized sub-limits—means coverage is broader than the cheapest alternatives, but still not fully premium-priced.
Medibank’s digital services, such as GapOnly® claims, reduce some operational costs, yet the brand is not classified as a pure digital player and operates both online and with agent support.
Overall, Medibank is well-aligned for those seeking strong, flexible cover at a price point just above the lowest-cost options, striking a balance between affordability and comprehensiveness.
Compare plans to find the right cover and price for your pet’s needs.
Pet Protect | Pet Plus | Pet Max | |
---|---|---|---|
Young cat (2–4 years) | $28/month | $36/month | $46/month |
Senior cat (7–8 years) | $39/month | $50/month | $65/month |
Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $34/month | $43/month | $58/month |
Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $47/month | $63/month | $84/month |
Senior dog (7–8 years) | $55/month | $73/month | $105/month |
Medibank Promo Codes
Medibank Promo Codes | Details |
---|---|
1FREE | First month free |
12WEEKSPLUS | 12 weeks free + up to $500 in gift cards (selected health insurance) |
HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
How much will I be reimbursed by Medibank?
With Medibank's top-tier Pet Max plan, you can claim up to 90% back on eligible vet bills, making it easier to manage costs for both routine and unexpected pet health needs.
- ✅ Example 1: Emergency surgery for intestinal blockage
- Total vet costs: $2,400 (surgery, hospitalization, diagnostics, medication)
- Deductible amount to subtract: $200 (annual deductible applied, if not yet met)
- Amount reimbursable after deductible: $2,400 – $200 = $2,200
- 90% of that amount reimbursed: $2,200 × 90% = $1,980
- 👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,980.
- ℹ️ After you reach the annual deductible, future eligible expenses are covered at 90% until you reach the yearly policy cap.
- ✅ Example 2: Treatment for chronic ear infection
- Total vet costs: $350 (consultation, medication, recheck)
- Deductible already paid earlier this policy year
- Amount reimbursed at 90%: $350 × 90% = $315
- 👉 You receive $315.
- ℹ️ Since the annual deductible is already met, you pay only the 10% coinsurance on eligible claims until your annual benefit limit is reached.
- ✅ Example 3: Dental extraction with Extra Care
- Total vet costs: $1,000 (exam, dental X-ray, extraction, anesthesia)
- Deductible already used earlier in the year
- Amount reimbursed at 90%: $1,000 × 90% = $900
- 👉 You receive $900.
- ℹ️ Dental procedures for conditions like gingivitis or abscesses are included under Extra Care, covered up to the supplementary $2,000 annual limit on the Pet Max plan.
Medibank Assistance
Assistance Medibank | Available? | Details |
---|---|---|
Advance payment | ✅ | GapOnly® lets you pay only your part immediately at participating clinics. |
Payment facilities | ❌ | N.C. |
Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. |
Paperless claims process | ✅ | Online portal and digital workflows for submitting and tracking pet claims. |
Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 Live Vet Support included for insured pets, accessible via phone or digital platform (myPetPass™). |
Vet/clinic partner network | ✅ | GapOnly® is available at registered partner vet clinics; full list online. |
Coverage abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
Customer reviews of Medibank
Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
---|---|
Trustpilot | 1.5 out of 5 (82 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Medibank for their pets sometimes mention:
- A handful of users have experienced successful claims for significant health events and appreciated individual staff members who provided helpful service.
- A small number of reviewers found the claims submission system to be fast and easy in isolated cases.
On the negative side: You must format your output as a JSON value that adheres to a given "JSON Schema" instance. "JSON Schema" is a declarative language that allows you to annotate and validate JSON documents. For example, the example "JSON Schema" instance {{"properties": {{"foo": {{"description": "a list of test words", "type": "array", "items": {{"type": "string"}}}}}}, "required": ["foo"]}}}} would match an object with one required property, "foo". The "type" property specifies "foo" must be an "array", and the "description" property semantically describes it as "a list of test words". The items within "foo" must be strings. Thus, the object {{"foo": ["bar", "baz"]}} is a well-formatted instance of this example "JSON Schema". The object {{"properties": {{"foo": ["bar", "baz"]}}}} is not well-formatted.
- A large number of policyholders report extremely poor customer service, including long wait times, unhelpful or rude staff, and unresolved support requests.
- A significant proportion describe claims as being denied or heavily delayed, ambiguous policy conditions, and unexpected premium increases with insufficient notice.
- A noticeable number express frustration with the digital experience, citing website or app issues that impede effective claim management.
- A recurrent complaint concerns a data breach, with customers dissatisfied by the company’s lack of communication or compensation for privacy loss.
- A substantial segment notes that loyalty is not rewarded, and policy cancellation or suspension is slow and difficult to achieve.
Contact Medibank
Medibank Customer Service | Details |
---|---|
To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
To request and track a reimbursement | Submit claims online via the Medibank Pet Portal or use the “Make a Claim” section on the Medibank website. Required documents: completed claim form, paid itemized invoices, and vet clinical notes. Reimbursements are processed to your nominated bank account; average processing time is 5–10 business days if all required documents are provided. |
To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact the Medibank Pet Insurance team by phone at 1300 980 601 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST) or email medibankpet@petsure.com.au. You may also request documents through your Medibank Pet Portal account. |
To contact assistance | For 24/7 Live Vet telehealth support, phone 1300 980 601 or access via the Medibank Pet Portal. For policy or claims help, contact the same number during business hours or email medibankpet@petsure.com.au. |
To cancel my policy | Call Medibank Pet Insurance at 1300 980 601 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST) or email medibankpet@petsure.com.au. Written notice may be required; prepare your policy number and reason for cancellation. Notice period and final premium details are confirmed during cancellation. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Medibank?
Yes, you generally have to pay veterinary fees upfront and then claim reimbursement through Medibank, unless your vet uses the GapOnly® system, which allows you to pay only the out-of-pocket gap at participating clinics. It is important to confirm with your vet whether GapOnly® is available before your visit.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Medibank?
To cancel your Medibank pet insurance policy, contact the customer service team by phone or email. You may be required to provide written notice with your policy details and reason for cancellation; any applicable notice period and final premium settlement will be explained during your cancellation request.
What percentage of my vet bills can Medibank pet insurance cover?
Depending on the plan you choose, Medibank pet insurance can reimburse up to 70%, 80%, or 90% of eligible vet bills for accidents or specified illnesses, up to the annual benefit limits. Be sure to review the product disclosure statement to understand which costs are eligible and any exclusions or sub-limits that may apply.
Are dental treatments covered by Medibank pet insurance?
Dental care is only covered under the Extra Care option, which may be included or added to your plan depending on the product chosen. This option covers certain veterinary dental procedures, such as cleaning, extractions for gum disease, abscess, or other approved conditions, up to an annual sub-limit.
Does Medibank pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
No, Medibank pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are illnesses or injuries that showed signs or symptoms before the start of your policy. Only new conditions that develop after the policy is active and following any applicable waiting period are eligible for reimbursement.
How do I file a claim with Medibank pet insurance?
You can file a claim online through the Medibank Pet Portal by submitting a completed claim form, itemized invoices, and relevant vet records. Claims are typically processed within 5–10 business days and reimbursement is made via your nominated bank account once approved.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Medibank?
Yes, you generally have to pay veterinary fees upfront and then claim reimbursement through Medibank, unless your vet uses the GapOnly® system, which allows you to pay only the out-of-pocket gap at participating clinics. It is important to confirm with your vet whether GapOnly® is available before your visit.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Medibank?
To cancel your Medibank pet insurance policy, contact the customer service team by phone or email. You may be required to provide written notice with your policy details and reason for cancellation; any applicable notice period and final premium settlement will be explained during your cancellation request.
What percentage of my vet bills can Medibank pet insurance cover?
Depending on the plan you choose, Medibank pet insurance can reimburse up to 70%, 80%, or 90% of eligible vet bills for accidents or specified illnesses, up to the annual benefit limits. Be sure to review the product disclosure statement to understand which costs are eligible and any exclusions or sub-limits that may apply.
Are dental treatments covered by Medibank pet insurance?
Dental care is only covered under the Extra Care option, which may be included or added to your plan depending on the product chosen. This option covers certain veterinary dental procedures, such as cleaning, extractions for gum disease, abscess, or other approved conditions, up to an annual sub-limit.
Does Medibank pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
No, Medibank pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are illnesses or injuries that showed signs or symptoms before the start of your policy. Only new conditions that develop after the policy is active and following any applicable waiting period are eligible for reimbursement.
How do I file a claim with Medibank pet insurance?
You can file a claim online through the Medibank Pet Portal by submitting a completed claim form, itemized invoices, and relevant vet records. Claims are typically processed within 5–10 business days and reimbursement is made via your nominated bank account once approved.