Medical doctors are seeking crucial revisions to Medicare rebates, as GPs attempt to cover expenses. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) says 60% of family doctor appointments are bulk billed.
For those that are not covered, the average amount a patient pays out of pocket is at minimum $41. The bulk billing rebate previously used to cover the entire charge of a standard consult, now it only covers just under half. Gap fees commenced going through the roof after a freeze was applied to the rebate. Former AMA president and also GP Professor Kerryn Phelps spoke with the Sunrise team.
