It's been a tough time for many of us lately, especially with the rising living costs.

A recent report has shown that the number of bulk-billing GPs in Australia has significantly decreased, which could mean that we'll be spending more money when we need to visit the doctor.

According to the report, Cleanbill – an online healthcare directory – looked at 416 general practitioner clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022 and found a decline in national bulk billing rates.

This means that fewer clinics are opting to bulk bill patients.

Credit: 7NEWS Australia.​

Four years ago, almost half of the GPs in Australia bulk billed their patients, but that figure has dropped down to just over 30 per cent. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has said that this is because Medicare rebates haven't kept up with the cost of running a practice, which has led to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

AMA vice president, Dr Daniel McMuller, has said that GPs have reached a tipping point where they can no longer stretch their dollar further and that the government needs to take ownership of this problem and provide adequate support for Medicare funding.

It's important to note that this report only looked at a standard 15-minute consultation for an adult during regular business hours.

Let's take a closer look at how the different capital cities in Australia have been affected by the decrease in bulk billing rates.

Brisbane

According to the report, Brisbane saw the largest decrease in all of the capital cities, with a drop of 58 per cent. On top of that, prices have gone up in Queensland more than in any other state.

Across all clinics surveyed, the average out-of-pocket cost for a standard 15-minute consultation increased by $3.58. However, Brisbane patients saw the most significant jump in cost, with prices rising from $38.94 four years ago to an average of $44 last year, a rise of 13 per cent.

A new report has revealed a major decline in national bulk billing services for general practitioners, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Credit: Unsplash/National Cancer Institute.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, bulk billing numbers fell by 45 per cent. The northern suburbs saw significant falls in bulk billing rates, with Paralowie and Salisbury falling by 40 per cent and Elizabeth down by 33 per cent. Things were even worse in the city itself, as Adelaide's CBD saw a plunge of more than 65 per cent, and Prospect fell by 50 per cent.

On average, Adelaide residents were charged eight per cent more for their consultations.

Sydney

The decrease in bulk billing services in Australia's capital cities hasn't spared Sydney either, as the city's GPs recorded a 29 per cent drop in bulk billing services.

Among the clinics tracked in New South Wales, Penrith recorded a fall in bulk billing rates by 27.3 per cent, while Burwood and Campbelltown fell by 22 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively. In the city, Barangaroo saw a drop of 63.6 per cent, and Darlinghurst and Surry Hills fell by 66.7 per cent.

As for out-of-pocket cost increases, Sydney saw a 3.4 per cent rise.

Melbourne

Moving on to Melbourne, the report found that out of 103 medical practices surveyed, there were 12 fewer bulk billing clinics at the end of the four-year period — bulk billing numbers fell by 12 per cent. Additionally, the average out-of-pocket cost increased by more than $5.

Perth

In Perth, the proportion of bulk billing clinics fell to 32 per cent, while the out-of-pocket cost for a standard doctor's appointment increased by 6.3 per cent to $42.40.

Cleanbill, an online healthcare directory, analysed a total of 416 medical clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022. Credit: cleanbill.com.au.

Finally, we have some hard data on the changes in bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs, and it confirms what many of us have already suspected. There are fewer bulk-billing GP clinics around now than there were four years ago, and average out-of-pocket costs are continuing to climb.

These figures are disturbing. With the rising cost of living and the after-effects of the pandemic still being felt, financial pressures can be overwhelming for those who need medical treatments.

Key Takeaways

• A report has revealed a national decline in the number of bulk-billing doctors and a rise in out-of-pocket costs amid the cost of living crisis.
• The report found a decrease in national bulk billing rates, with 63 clinics opting out by the end of last year; this figure has dropped down to just 31 per cent.
• In capital cities, there were large decreases in bulk billing rates, with Brisbane seeing the largest decrease of 58 per cent.
• The Australian Medical Association said that Medicare rebates have not kept up with the cost of running a practice, leading to the lack of bulk billing services and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Members, if you are finding it hard to make medical expenses, you can reach out to support services like Centrelink or Lifeline. You can also speak to your doctor or health provider to discuss payment plans so you can get the medical treatments you need in a more affordable way.

Do you have any advice for members about how to save money on medical bills? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

 

[ColMack]

Recently my doctor sent a referral to a Cardiologist, who I have previously seen and who bulk billed. This time I was told they are a private practice and I would have to pay $200 to see the doctor and then I have to get any refund from Medicare. I declined because I do not have that sort of money to spare and I was told by the receptionist that I will have to use the Public System. So the system now is Do or Die.

 

[Caron]

It's been a tough time for many of us lately, especially with the rising living costs.

A recent report has shown that the number of bulk-billing GPs in Australia has significantly decreased, which could mean that we'll be spending more money when we need to visit the doctor.

According to the report, Cleanbill – an online healthcare directory – looked at 416 general practitioner clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022 and found a decline in national bulk billing rates.

This means that fewer clinics are opting to bulk bill patients.

Credit: 7NEWS Australia.​

Four years ago, almost half of the GPs in Australia bulk billed their patients, but that figure has dropped down to just over 30 per cent. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has said that this is because Medicare rebates haven't kept up with the cost of running a practice, which has led to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

AMA vice president, Dr Daniel McMuller, has said that GPs have reached a tipping point where they can no longer stretch their dollar further and that the government needs to take ownership of this problem and provide adequate support for Medicare funding.

It's important to note that this report only looked at a standard 15-minute consultation for an adult during regular business hours.

Let's take a closer look at how the different capital cities in Australia have been affected by the decrease in bulk billing rates.

Brisbane

According to the report, Brisbane saw the largest decrease in all of the capital cities, with a drop of 58 per cent. On top of that, prices have gone up in Queensland more than in any other state.

Across all clinics surveyed, the average out-of-pocket cost for a standard 15-minute consultation increased by $3.58. However, Brisbane patients saw the most significant jump in cost, with prices rising from $38.94 four years ago to an average of $44 last year, a rise of 13 per cent.

View attachment 15566

A new report has revealed a major decline in national bulk billing services for general practitioners, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Credit: Unsplash/National Cancer Institute.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, bulk billing numbers fell by 45 per cent. The northern suburbs saw significant falls in bulk billing rates, with Paralowie and Salisbury falling by 40 per cent and Elizabeth down by 33 per cent. Things were even worse in the city itself, as Adelaide's CBD saw a plunge of more than 65 per cent, and Prospect fell by 50 per cent.

On average, Adelaide residents were charged eight per cent more for their consultations.

Sydney

The decrease in bulk billing services in Australia's capital cities hasn't spared Sydney either, as the city's GPs recorded a 29 per cent drop in bulk billing services.

Among the clinics tracked in New South Wales, Penrith recorded a fall in bulk billing rates by 27.3 per cent, while Burwood and Campbelltown fell by 22 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively. In the city, Barangaroo saw a drop of 63.6 per cent, and Darlinghurst and Surry Hills fell by 66.7 per cent.

As for out-of-pocket cost increases, Sydney saw a 3.4 per cent rise.

Melbourne

Moving on to Melbourne, the report found that out of 103 medical practices surveyed, there were 12 fewer bulk billing clinics at the end of the four-year period — bulk billing numbers fell by 12 per cent. Additionally, the average out-of-pocket cost increased by more than $5.

Perth

In Perth, the proportion of bulk billing clinics fell to 32 per cent, while the out-of-pocket cost for a standard doctor's appointment increased by 6.3 per cent to $42.40.

View attachment 15567

Cleanbill, an online healthcare directory, analysed a total of 416 medical clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022. Credit: cleanbill.com.au.

Finally, we have some hard data on the changes in bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs, and it confirms what many of us have already suspected. There are fewer bulk-billing GP clinics around now than there were four years ago, and average out-of-pocket costs are continuing to climb.

These figures are disturbing. With the rising cost of living and the after-effects of the pandemic still being felt, financial pressures can be overwhelming for those who need medical treatments.

Key Takeaways

• A report has revealed a national decline in the number of bulk-billing doctors and a rise in out-of-pocket costs amid the cost of living crisis.
• The report found a decrease in national bulk billing rates, with 63 clinics opting out by the end of last year; this figure has dropped down to just 31 per cent.
• In capital cities, there were large decreases in bulk billing rates, with Brisbane seeing the largest decrease of 58 per cent.
• The Australian Medical Association said that Medicare rebates have not kept up with the cost of running a practice, leading to the lack of bulk billing services and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Members, if you are finding it hard to make medical expenses, you can reach out to support services like Centrelink or Lifeline. You can also speak to your doctor or health provider to discuss payment plans so you can get the medical treatments you need in a more affordable way.

Do you have any advice for members about how to save money on medical bills? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

 

[Caron]

It's been a tough time for many of us lately, especially with the rising living costs.

A recent report has shown that the number of bulk-billing GPs in Australia has significantly decreased, which could mean that we'll be spending more money when we need to visit the doctor.

According to the report, Cleanbill – an online healthcare directory – looked at 416 general practitioner clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022 and found a decline in national bulk billing rates.

This means that fewer clinics are opting to bulk bill patients.

Credit: 7NEWS Australia.​

Four years ago, almost half of the GPs in Australia bulk billed their patients, but that figure has dropped down to just over 30 per cent. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has said that this is because Medicare rebates haven't kept up with the cost of running a practice, which has led to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

AMA vice president, Dr Daniel McMuller, has said that GPs have reached a tipping point where they can no longer stretch their dollar further and that the government needs to take ownership of this problem and provide adequate support for Medicare funding.

It's important to note that this report only looked at a standard 15-minute consultation for an adult during regular business hours.

Let's take a closer look at how the different capital cities in Australia have been affected by the decrease in bulk billing rates.

Brisbane

According to the report, Brisbane saw the largest decrease in all of the capital cities, with a drop of 58 per cent. On top of that, prices have gone up in Queensland more than in any other state.

Across all clinics surveyed, the average out-of-pocket cost for a standard 15-minute consultation increased by $3.58. However, Brisbane patients saw the most significant jump in cost, with prices rising from $38.94 four years ago to an average of $44 last year, a rise of 13 per cent.

View attachment 15566

A new report has revealed a major decline in national bulk billing services for general practitioners, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Credit: Unsplash/National Cancer Institute.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, bulk billing numbers fell by 45 per cent. The northern suburbs saw significant falls in bulk billing rates, with Paralowie and Salisbury falling by 40 per cent and Elizabeth down by 33 per cent. Things were even worse in the city itself, as Adelaide's CBD saw a plunge of more than 65 per cent, and Prospect fell by 50 per cent.

On average, Adelaide residents were charged eight per cent more for their consultations.

Sydney

The decrease in bulk billing services in Australia's capital cities hasn't spared Sydney either, as the city's GPs recorded a 29 per cent drop in bulk billing services.

Among the clinics tracked in New South Wales, Penrith recorded a fall in bulk billing rates by 27.3 per cent, while Burwood and Campbelltown fell by 22 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively. In the city, Barangaroo saw a drop of 63.6 per cent, and Darlinghurst and Surry Hills fell by 66.7 per cent.

As for out-of-pocket cost increases, Sydney saw a 3.4 per cent rise.

Melbourne

Moving on to Melbourne, the report found that out of 103 medical practices surveyed, there were 12 fewer bulk billing clinics at the end of the four-year period — bulk billing numbers fell by 12 per cent. Additionally, the average out-of-pocket cost increased by more than $5.

Perth

In Perth, the proportion of bulk billing clinics fell to 32 per cent, while the out-of-pocket cost for a standard doctor's appointment increased by 6.3 per cent to $42.40.

View attachment 15567

Cleanbill, an online healthcare directory, analysed a total of 416 medical clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022. Credit: cleanbill.com.au.

Finally, we have some hard data on the changes in bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs, and it confirms what many of us have already suspected. There are fewer bulk-billing GP clinics around now than there were four years ago, and average out-of-pocket costs are continuing to climb.

These figures are disturbing. With the rising cost of living and the after-effects of the pandemic still being felt, financial pressures can be overwhelming for those who need medical treatments.

Key Takeaways

• A report has revealed a national decline in the number of bulk-billing doctors and a rise in out-of-pocket costs amid the cost of living crisis.
• The report found a decrease in national bulk billing rates, with 63 clinics opting out by the end of last year; this figure has dropped down to just 31 per cent.
• In capital cities, there were large decreases in bulk billing rates, with Brisbane seeing the largest decrease of 58 per cent.
• The Australian Medical Association said that Medicare rebates have not kept up with the cost of running a practice, leading to the lack of bulk billing services and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Members, if you are finding it hard to make medical expenses, you can reach out to support services like Centrelink or Lifeline. You can also speak to your doctor or health provider to discuss payment plans so you can get the medical treatments you need in a more affordable way.

Do you have any advice for members about how to save money on medical bills? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

 

[CaroleandGarry]

I live in a regional area. Last week I went to the doctors for some results of tests. Paid $87.50 and received $39.75 back. That’s $47.75 out of pocket and I have a Commonwealth Seniors Healthcare Card. They now want $25 for a prescription repeat. That adds a lot to the cost of a script. I feel sorry for the pensioners who through no fault of their own don’t have the extra dollars especially if they have to visit regularly.

 

[scouserdog]

I notice you do not mention Canberra in the article - I have never been bulk billed and nor do I know anyone here who has been - all the GPs (if you can find one ) charge and specialists charge through the nose. I have a chronic illness which requires frequent doctor and specialist visits and much of my income goes on medical care. None of my friends in other cities seem to have this problem - just us and people in regional areas. One of my neighbours has been having problems finding a GP and has just registered with one who charges $125 for a standard consultation!

 

[Cheezil]

It's been a tough time for many of us lately, especially with the rising living costs.

A recent report has shown that the number of bulk-billing GPs in Australia has significantly decreased, which could mean that we'll be spending more money when we need to visit the doctor.

According to the report, Cleanbill – an online healthcare directory – looked at 416 general practitioner clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022 and found a decline in national bulk billing rates.

This means that fewer clinics are opting to bulk bill patients.

Credit: 7NEWS Australia.​

Four years ago, almost half of the GPs in Australia bulk billed their patients, but that figure has dropped down to just over 30 per cent. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has said that this is because Medicare rebates haven't kept up with the cost of running a practice, which has led to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

AMA vice president, Dr Daniel McMuller, has said that GPs have reached a tipping point where they can no longer stretch their dollar further and that the government needs to take ownership of this problem and provide adequate support for Medicare funding.

It's important to note that this report only looked at a standard 15-minute consultation for an adult during regular business hours.

Let's take a closer look at how the different capital cities in Australia have been affected by the decrease in bulk billing rates.

Brisbane

According to the report, Brisbane saw the largest decrease in all of the capital cities, with a drop of 58 per cent. On top of that, prices have gone up in Queensland more than in any other state.

Across all clinics surveyed, the average out-of-pocket cost for a standard 15-minute consultation increased by $3.58. However, Brisbane patients saw the most significant jump in cost, with prices rising from $38.94 four years ago to an average of $44 last year, a rise of 13 per cent.

View attachment 15566

A new report has revealed a major decline in national bulk billing services for general practitioners, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Credit: Unsplash/National Cancer Institute.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, bulk billing numbers fell by 45 per cent. The northern suburbs saw significant falls in bulk billing rates, with Paralowie and Salisbury falling by 40 per cent and Elizabeth down by 33 per cent. Things were even worse in the city itself, as Adelaide's CBD saw a plunge of more than 65 per cent, and Prospect fell by 50 per cent.

On average, Adelaide residents were charged eight per cent more for their consultations.

Sydney

The decrease in bulk billing services in Australia's capital cities hasn't spared Sydney either, as the city's GPs recorded a 29 per cent drop in bulk billing services.

Among the clinics tracked in New South Wales, Penrith recorded a fall in bulk billing rates by 27.3 per cent, while Burwood and Campbelltown fell by 22 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively. In the city, Barangaroo saw a drop of 63.6 per cent, and Darlinghurst and Surry Hills fell by 66.7 per cent.

As for out-of-pocket cost increases, Sydney saw a 3.4 per cent rise.

Melbourne

Moving on to Melbourne, the report found that out of 103 medical practices surveyed, there were 12 fewer bulk billing clinics at the end of the four-year period — bulk billing numbers fell by 12 per cent. Additionally, the average out-of-pocket cost increased by more than $5.

Perth

In Perth, the proportion of bulk billing clinics fell to 32 per cent, while the out-of-pocket cost for a standard doctor's appointment increased by 6.3 per cent to $42.40.

View attachment 15567

Cleanbill, an online healthcare directory, analysed a total of 416 medical clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022. Credit: cleanbill.com.au.

Finally, we have some hard data on the changes in bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs, and it confirms what many of us have already suspected. There are fewer bulk-billing GP clinics around now than there were four years ago, and average out-of-pocket costs are continuing to climb.

These figures are disturbing. With the rising cost of living and the after-effects of the pandemic still being felt, financial pressures can be overwhelming for those who need medical treatments.

Key Takeaways

• A report has revealed a national decline in the number of bulk-billing doctors and a rise in out-of-pocket costs amid the cost of living crisis.
• The report found a decrease in national bulk billing rates, with 63 clinics opting out by the end of last year; this figure has dropped down to just 31 per cent.
• In capital cities, there were large decreases in bulk billing rates, with Brisbane seeing the largest decrease of 58 per cent.
• The Australian Medical Association said that Medicare rebates have not kept up with the cost of running a practice, leading to the lack of bulk billing services and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Members, if you are finding it hard to make medical expenses, you can reach out to support services like Centrelink or Lifeline. You can also speak to your doctor or health provider to discuss payment plans so you can get the medical treatments you need in a more affordable way.

Do you have any advice for members about how to save money on medical bills? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

I've already been doing without many medical tests, etc that I've been needing for yrs (even tho i worked fulltime & paid medicare levies over the yrs) that i didnt have the money for because it was needed elsewhere!
So now if there's anything major in future i guess its euthanasia for me!

 

[Pink lion]

The trick to getting a bulk bill appointment IF YOU CAN FIND ONE, appears to be to anticipate that you're going to be injured and in need of medical attention and then make an appointment at least five days before assistance is immediately required. Then be prepared for a short sharp visit with a qualified professional that pays very little head to anything it seems other than the fact that the clock is ticking, and others are waiting.

Sounds harsh? "I HAVE OVER A HUNDRED PHOTOGRAPHS of a very bad viral infection, that I had for a couple of years. This extremely painful condition was ignored repeatedly, for seven visits, seven blood tests (all no doubt asking the same question) said that it could be seen that there was no issue. By the time I had got to see the doctors(?) again, there was a new one. And by the time I told the issue, my time was just about up. So, NO treatment was ever prescribed.

Because of the extreme difficulty in finding anyone willing to bulk bill like many, I was having to wait up to nine days to get help. This meant the issue had always subsided, by the day of my appointment. I was actually told I was imagining my concerns and I was told that I was being referred to a physiatrist as there are people with real injuries that needed treatment. My response to this was to say. I need to ask a personal question if I may Doc? He nodded and I said, "did you get your certificate online, or did your mum buy it for you?" We parted ways.

After realizing that I was being assessed by fools, I learnt to self-medicate after that. It was painful but I had it more or less under control, until luckily, the Lismore flood came and at the evacuation center, five St Johns ambulance people fussed all over me. FINALLY, I was then given antibiotics and over a year after I first showed doctors(?) the issue, it then completely resolved.

I still have the Photos and many scars to prove their incompetence. Not all are like this I know; however, we all do MOST DEFINITELY deserve better. Like a GREAT MANY, I cannot afford to go to doctors, so I resolve everything myself, as more and more of us, are having to learn to do.

Everything in our nation that is in disarray, traces back to the privileged people in government who have very little to no interest, in such matters. They have their own re-election concerns.

 

[Cheezil]

The trick to getting a bulk bill appointment IF YOU CAN FIND ONE, appears to be to anticipate that you're going to be injured and in need of medical attention and then make an appointment at least five days before assistance is immediately required. Then be prepared for a short sharp visit with a qualified professional that pays very little head to anything it seems other than the fact that the clock is ticking, and others are waiting.

Sounds harsh? "I HAVE OVER A HUNDRED PHOTOGRAPHS of a very bad viral infection, that I had for a couple of years. This extremely painful condition was ignored repeatedly, for seven visits, seven blood tests (all no doubt asking the same question) said that it could be seen that there was no issue. By the time I had got to see the doctors(?) again, there was a new one. And by the time I told the issue, my time was just about up. So, NO treatment was ever prescribed.

Because of the extreme difficulty in finding anyone willing to bulk bill like many, I was having to wait up to nine days to get help. This meant the issue had always subsided, by the day of my appointment. I was actually told I was imagining my concerns and I was told that I was being referred to a physiatrist as there are people with real injuries that needed treatment. My response to this was to say. I need to ask a personal question if I may Doc? He nodded and I said, "did you get your certificate online, or did your mum buy it for you?" We parted ways.

After realizing that I was being assessed by fools, I learnt to self-medicate after that. It was painful but I had it more or less under control, until luckily, the Lismore flood came and at the evacuation center, five St Johns ambulance people fussed all over me. FINALLY, I was then given antibiotics and over a year after I first showed doctors(?) the issue, it then completely resolved.

I still have the Photos and many scars to prove their incompetence. Not all are like this I know; however, we all do MOST DEFINITELY deserve better. Like a GREAT MANY, I cannot afford to go to doctors, so I resolve everything myself, as more and more of us, are having to learn to do.

Everything in our nation that is in disarray, traces back to the privileged people in government who have very little to no interest, in such matters. They have their own re-election concerns.

Sorry to hear sad but true for many

 

[lizclarke]

I have no qualms about them no longer bulk billing. After all they earn less than traders, have high professional indemnity insurance, etc. They are the most important link in providing health care in Australia.

 

[Pink lion]

I have no qualms about them no longer bulk billing. After all they earn less than traders, have high professional indemnity insurance, etc. They are the most important link in providing health care in Australia.

Nobody is saying it's the fault of the doctors, as EVERYONE of course, deserves a fair go.

It's great that you can pay for doctors' visits, should you ever need this and it's true that many people can as well. The thing is, this issue is about the many thousands of people that for reasons of their own, can't pay up front and how it is the extreme lack of Government funding that is required to support bulk billing, to enable others to have the same treatment if required, that is the issue.

Thank God for natural disasters, for one thing, it's the only real time that the Government allows everyone effected to be treated equally and it's the only time that everyone receives the same medical attention. The truth is evident to many Liz, and this is that it is the extremely poor ongoing miss management of our Nations resources, that is detrimentally affecting a lot of our nations people. And this is a highly important issue, that needs to be resolved.

This lack of attention by government towards assisting doctors with bulk billing, has been the problem for years. I used to have a partner that was a high-profile doctor, years ago. I know it is not their fault, and how very hard they work.

 

[Donn]

If you need a bulk billing doctor approach your local federal member.
The problem is the Medicare rebate is spectacularly inadequate having risen at far less than the cost of living (CPI) since it was first introduced in 1984 and has been 'frozen" for a number of years.
Furthermore medical costs rise at a much higher rate than the CPI.
So guess who the meat in the sandwich is?
The doctors, particularly, your GP.
Crunch time has arrived.
The students training to be doctors are not opting to be GP's any more for obvious reasons. There will be even fewer GP's in the future so accessibility and costs will become far worse.
Now the government has enabled a decision for medical centres to pay payroll tax! (New South Wales so far).
Even more costs.

THE PROBLEM IS THE INADEQUATE MEDICARE REBATE.

COMPLAIN TO YOUR LOCAL FEEDERAL MEMBER.

(Politicians estimate a ratio for every one complaint they get. For example they might estimate that 1000 voters think the same way as one complainant so telling them your point of view does make a significant impact upon them).

 

[Glen44]

It's been a tough time for many of us lately, especially with the rising living costs.

A recent report has shown that the number of bulk-billing GPs in Australia has significantly decreased, which could mean that we'll be spending more money when we need to visit the doctor.

According to the report, Cleanbill – an online healthcare directory – looked at 416 general practitioner clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022 and found a decline in national bulk billing rates.

This means that fewer clinics are opting to bulk bill patients.

Credit: 7NEWS Australia.​

Four years ago, almost half of the GPs in Australia bulk billed their patients, but that figure has dropped down to just over 30 per cent. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has said that this is because Medicare rebates haven't kept up with the cost of running a practice, which has led to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

AMA vice president, Dr Daniel McMuller, has said that GPs have reached a tipping point where they can no longer stretch their dollar further and that the government needs to take ownership of this problem and provide adequate support for Medicare funding.

It's important to note that this report only looked at a standard 15-minute consultation for an adult during regular business hours.

Let's take a closer look at how the different capital cities in Australia have been affected by the decrease in bulk billing rates.

Brisbane

According to the report, Brisbane saw the largest decrease in all of the capital cities, with a drop of 58 per cent. On top of that, prices have gone up in Queensland more than in any other state.

Across all clinics surveyed, the average out-of-pocket cost for a standard 15-minute consultation increased by $3.58. However, Brisbane patients saw the most significant jump in cost, with prices rising from $38.94 four years ago to an average of $44 last year, a rise of 13 per cent.

View attachment 15566

A new report has revealed a major decline in national bulk billing services for general practitioners, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Credit: Unsplash/National Cancer Institute.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, bulk billing numbers fell by 45 per cent. The northern suburbs saw significant falls in bulk billing rates, with Paralowie and Salisbury falling by 40 per cent and Elizabeth down by 33 per cent. Things were even worse in the city itself, as Adelaide's CBD saw a plunge of more than 65 per cent, and Prospect fell by 50 per cent.

On average, Adelaide residents were charged eight per cent more for their consultations.

Sydney

The decrease in bulk billing services in Australia's capital cities hasn't spared Sydney either, as the city's GPs recorded a 29 per cent drop in bulk billing services.

Among the clinics tracked in New South Wales, Penrith recorded a fall in bulk billing rates by 27.3 per cent, while Burwood and Campbelltown fell by 22 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively. In the city, Barangaroo saw a drop of 63.6 per cent, and Darlinghurst and Surry Hills fell by 66.7 per cent.

As for out-of-pocket cost increases, Sydney saw a 3.4 per cent rise.

Melbourne

Moving on to Melbourne, the report found that out of 103 medical practices surveyed, there were 12 fewer bulk billing clinics at the end of the four-year period — bulk billing numbers fell by 12 per cent. Additionally, the average out-of-pocket cost increased by more than $5.

Perth

In Perth, the proportion of bulk billing clinics fell to 32 per cent, while the out-of-pocket cost for a standard doctor's appointment increased by 6.3 per cent to $42.40.

View attachment 15567

Cleanbill, an online healthcare directory, analysed a total of 416 medical clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022. Credit: cleanbill.com.au.

Finally, we have some hard data on the changes in bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs, and it confirms what many of us have already suspected. There are fewer bulk-billing GP clinics around now than there were four years ago, and average out-of-pocket costs are continuing to climb.

These figures are disturbing. With the rising cost of living and the after-effects of the pandemic still being felt, financial pressures can be overwhelming for those who need medical treatments.

Key Takeaways

• A report has revealed a national decline in the number of bulk-billing doctors and a rise in out-of-pocket costs amid the cost of living crisis.
• The report found a decrease in national bulk billing rates, with 63 clinics opting out by the end of last year; this figure has dropped down to just 31 per cent.
• In capital cities, there were large decreases in bulk billing rates, with Brisbane seeing the largest decrease of 58 per cent.
• The Australian Medical Association said that Medicare rebates have not kept up with the cost of running a practice, leading to the lack of bulk billing services and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Members, if you are finding it hard to make medical expenses, you can reach out to support services like Centrelink or Lifeline. You can also speak to your doctor or health provider to discuss payment plans so you can get the medical treatments you need in a more affordable way.

Do you have any advice for members about how to save money on medical bills? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

Consutive governments should have put up the amount the doctors receive

 

[Vio Kot]

I live in a regional area. Last week I went to the doctors for some results of tests. Paid $87.50 and received $39.75 back. That’s $47.75 out of pocket and I have a Commonwealth Seniors Healthcare Card. They now want $25 for a prescription repeat. That adds a lot to the cost of a script. I feel sorry for the pensioners who through no fault of their own don’t have the extra dollars especially if they have to visit regularly.

Only Age Pensioners are bulk billed still. Everyone else has to die apparently

 

[Pink lion]

It must be great having the ability to hop- on a train and have all of the services nearby in a city if you like the car honking lifestyle they lead. In the country we have no need of such luxuries.

In the 2017 Lismore flood cleanup, I along with others pressure cleaned many houses and streets.

I washed up under houses too and somehow Flood water got into first one ear and then into the other. I shrugged it off as i was busy but eventually it caused so much pain that it dropped me.

Somehow, I managed to get myself into town to the hospital emergency ward, who told me I needed to go immediately to a Brisbane ear specialist, as both of my ears seemed so very bad.

I rang and made an appointment with the specialist in Brisbane, telling of my painful dual ear dilemma. "TEN MONTHS" later, I received a very curt phone call from the specialist's secretary, that said a place has become available.

I said in a very sad voice OH, he died of severe ear complications months ago and slowly hung up.

It's hard to see misery anywhere when you're deliberately facing away from it. The quickest way to shorten any lineup of people after all, is simply to get everyone to stand much closer together.

 

[Ezzy]

I have never paid for a G.P. consult in W.A. whether as a HEALTH CARE CARD HOLDER or now as a Senior. Some of the G.P.'s @ my practice both Bulk Bill & charge privately while others only Bulk Bill. The G.P. l see has a sign in his office stating he only Bulk Bills including Saturdays.

A 15 minute visit has always been mentioned here in such articles whereas this practice only allows 10 minutes. Not sure if this is why they only Bulk Bill.

Like every other person though, l pay through the nose to see a specialist or go without.

 

[Luckyus]

It's been a tough time for many of us lately, especially with the rising living costs.

A recent report has shown that the number of bulk-billing GPs in Australia has significantly decreased, which could mean that we'll be spending more money when we need to visit the doctor.

According to the report, Cleanbill – an online healthcare directory – looked at 416 general practitioner clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022 and found a decline in national bulk billing rates.

This means that fewer clinics are opting to bulk bill patients.

Credit: 7NEWS Australia.​

Four years ago, almost half of the GPs in Australia bulk billed their patients, but that figure has dropped down to just over 30 per cent. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has said that this is because Medicare rebates haven't kept up with the cost of running a practice, which has led to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

AMA vice president, Dr Daniel McMuller, has said that GPs have reached a tipping point where they can no longer stretch their dollar further and that the government needs to take ownership of this problem and provide adequate support for Medicare funding.

It's important to note that this report only looked at a standard 15-minute consultation for an adult during regular business hours.

Let's take a closer look at how the different capital cities in Australia have been affected by the decrease in bulk billing rates.

Brisbane

According to the report, Brisbane saw the largest decrease in all of the capital cities, with a drop of 58 per cent. On top of that, prices have gone up in Queensland more than in any other state.

Across all clinics surveyed, the average out-of-pocket cost for a standard 15-minute consultation increased by $3.58. However, Brisbane patients saw the most significant jump in cost, with prices rising from $38.94 four years ago to an average of $44 last year, a rise of 13 per cent.

View attachment 15566

A new report has revealed a major decline in national bulk billing services for general practitioners, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Credit: Unsplash/National Cancer Institute.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, bulk billing numbers fell by 45 per cent. The northern suburbs saw significant falls in bulk billing rates, with Paralowie and Salisbury falling by 40 per cent and Elizabeth down by 33 per cent. Things were even worse in the city itself, as Adelaide's CBD saw a plunge of more than 65 per cent, and Prospect fell by 50 per cent.

On average, Adelaide residents were charged eight per cent more for their consultations.

Sydney

The decrease in bulk billing services in Australia's capital cities hasn't spared Sydney either, as the city's GPs recorded a 29 per cent drop in bulk billing services.

Among the clinics tracked in New South Wales, Penrith recorded a fall in bulk billing rates by 27.3 per cent, while Burwood and Campbelltown fell by 22 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively. In the city, Barangaroo saw a drop of 63.6 per cent, and Darlinghurst and Surry Hills fell by 66.7 per cent.

As for out-of-pocket cost increases, Sydney saw a 3.4 per cent rise.

Melbourne

Moving on to Melbourne, the report found that out of 103 medical practices surveyed, there were 12 fewer bulk billing clinics at the end of the four-year period — bulk billing numbers fell by 12 per cent. Additionally, the average out-of-pocket cost increased by more than $5.

Perth

In Perth, the proportion of bulk billing clinics fell to 32 per cent, while the out-of-pocket cost for a standard doctor's appointment increased by 6.3 per cent to $42.40.

View attachment 15567

Cleanbill, an online healthcare directory, analysed a total of 416 medical clinics across Australia between 2018 and 2022. Credit: cleanbill.com.au.

Finally, we have some hard data on the changes in bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs, and it confirms what many of us have already suspected. There are fewer bulk-billing GP clinics around now than there were four years ago, and average out-of-pocket costs are continuing to climb.

These figures are disturbing. With the rising cost of living and the after-effects of the pandemic still being felt, financial pressures can be overwhelming for those who need medical treatments.

Key Takeaways

• A report has revealed a national decline in the number of bulk-billing doctors and a rise in out-of-pocket costs amid the cost of living crisis.
• The report found a decrease in national bulk billing rates, with 63 clinics opting out by the end of last year; this figure has dropped down to just 31 per cent.
• In capital cities, there were large decreases in bulk billing rates, with Brisbane seeing the largest decrease of 58 per cent.
• The Australian Medical Association said that Medicare rebates have not kept up with the cost of running a practice, leading to the lack of bulk billing services and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

A very

Members, if you are finding it hard to make medical expenses, you can reach out to support services like Centrelink or Lifeline. You can also speak to your doctor or health provider to discuss payment plans so you can get the medical treatments you need in a more affordable way.

Do you have any advice for members about how to save money on medical bills? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

A very admirable attempt by the then-Labour Party to improve the medical system. unfortunately, once it was up and running, conveniently left it run itself with what appears to be very little oversight. Until now when it is practically falling apart and instead of overhauling it completely, choose to o do it piecemeal.

 

[Pink lion]

The thing about a four-year political term, is it's like a four-year apprenticeship in anything.

The first-year apprentices have heaps of passion and enthusiasm, but no knowledge.
The second-year apprentices tend to accidentally screw a lot of things up and then they learn either how to fix problems they created, or someone else does it for them and they watch.
Third-year apprentices are okay at their jobs, but still pretty slow and not really very skilled.
Fourth-year apprentices aren't that bad, and things get done on time to a high standard.
And then, we have another election. And it all starts over again, with people (first year apprentices) being given huge responsibilities in areas, they often have no experience in.

All politicians are potential lobbyists in training. it's known that corporations hire skilled politicians, when their time is done, to promote or push their agendas through, with various contacts, they have met during their time in office.

It's a big business, there's a lot going on. Everyone is so focused on re-election strategies, that it's obviously difficult focusing on the publics ongoing concerns about such things as supporting bulk billing. we understand that. They will all collectively come together and vote for another pay rise for themselves soon though, just watch.

 

[scouserdog]

Only Age Pensioners are bulk billed still. Everyone else has to die apparently

I don't know any old age pensioners (including me) being bulk billed in Canberra

 

[Pink lion]

I don't know any old age pensioners (including me) being bulk billed in Canberra.

I don't know hardly anything about Canberra. It truly surprises me however, that you aren't treated better than any other state in Australia. I had figured that why we are ignored, is because Canberra, doesn't have the problem, and so it's entirely plausible that they don't see one.

As far as bulk billing for older aged pensioners goes, I am 70 this year and GOOD LUCK finding a bulk billing place in Lismore. And if you do its normal to have to wait over a week for a ten-minute consultation, that requires you to come back again in two weeks without addressing the situation that took you there in the first place.

Best we all learn to repair ourselves, it's what the government is basically suggesting.