Bulk-billing incentives rolled out nationally
10 News First · New
10 News First
New
New incentives for doctors to bulk bill have come into effect nationwide, as part of efforts to improve Medicare. The Federal Government hopes the changes will make it easier to see a GP for free, though some doctors say they don’t go far enough.
Breakdown
- The federal government is expanding benefits to GPs who bulk-bill, aiming to increase access to medical services. 16s
- Previously, financial incentives for bulk billing applied only to concession card holders and children under 16, but now extend to all patients. 29s
- GPs in metropolitan areas will receive about $21.85 per bulk-billed patient, with an optional new program offering an extra 12.5% incentive. 1m 1s
- Decisions on fully bulk-billing remain at the discretion of individual clinics, making transparent pricing and availability information important. 1m 13s
- Some GPs have called for broader reforms, including improved rebates for longer consultations, as current incentives do not vary by appointment length. 1m 33s