Changes to billing for some patients
We are all aware of the increasing costs that have been affecting businesses across Australia in the post covid environment, and medical centers have not been immune to these costs. Despite this, the medicare rebate available to us has not kept in line with this, indeed has been totally stagnant and can no longer support the cost of running a practice. Across Australia, currently, 77% of all general practices are mixed billing, and in the interests of business sustainability, we find ourselves needing to also move in this direction.
As a result as of the 14th of November, Hastings Medical Centre will convert from a fully bulk-billed practice to a mixed-billing practice.
What is mixed billing?
Some patients will continue to be bulk billed. These will be children under 16yo, pensioners, and DVA card holders. Current pension cards and DVA cards will need to be presented to access this bulk billing service
All other patients will now need to be privately billed with an “out of pocket” or “gap fee”.
There are certain consults/item numbers that will still attract a bulk billed fee, such as health care assessments, care plans, team care arrangements, and others.
How will this fee be processed?
You will be charged the full private fee to your debit card at the end of your appointment. We can then electronically process your medicare rebate on your behalf. The rebate should appear in your bank account within 1-2 business days.
We encourage payment via card as whilst we can accept a cash payment, we cannot process your rebate for you, and you will need to take a receipt to medicare to obtain your refund.
How will I know the cost of my appointment before I come in?
Our reception staff will always try to give you the most accurate advice possible about the costs of your appointment ahead of time. However, please keep in mind that the reception staff will only be able to offer you advice based on the information you provide and that your type of consultation may vary within your appointment.
Key indicators that will change the cost of your appointment include the length (time) of your appointment, how many issues you discuss with the doctor, and whether there is a procedure involved in your appointment.
Summary of the most common fees
Appointment type Description Private Fee Medicare rebate Gap
Standard consult 23 <20 min $85 $39.75 $45.25
Long consult 36 20-40 min $130 $76.95 $53.05
Extra long con 44 >40 min $170 $113.30 $56.70
Before 8am <20 min $125 $51.80 $73.20