Does pet insurance work like human health insurance?

Medicare is a national scheme providing Australians (and some overseas visitors) with free or subsidised health services. Medicare helps Australians with medical costs, with the government assisting with some expenses. 

 There's no Medicare for animals which means that Australian pet owners are responsible for covering their pet's veterinary bills entirely. 

Pet insurance mainly focuses on unexpected events, like injuries or if a pet unexpectedly develops an illness. 

While both types of insurance provide financial help for medical expenses, they operate differently to meet the unique needs of people and their pets.