FAQs
What is bulk billing?
In the simplest of terms, bulk-billing means you don’t have to pay for your medical services rendered from a health professional – it is covered/taken care of by Medicare Australia.
The doctor is paid directly by Medicare for the service provided to the patient. The amount paid for the medical service is an amount that is set by the Australian government. Some services including occupational health, work cover consultations, insurance documents and private certifications are not covered by Medicare and would incur a charge.
Do we bulk bill?
Yes we bulk bill!
Bulk billing is available to all Medicare card holders for the following:
- Telephone/Telehealth Consults (available only to patients who have previously attended the clinic in the preceding 12 month period)
- Residents of Aged Care facilities
- GP Management Plans, Team Care Arrangements and care plan reviews
- Mental Health Care Plans & their reviews
- MBS/Medicare Health Assessments
- Over 75s mandatory Older Driver medicals
Note: A private fee applies for patients who are not eligible under the above bulk billing criteria.
Why do we not bulk bill everything?
The Government has a set amount for specific services through the MBS (Medicare benefits schedule). Therefore, there are amounts that are approved for a consultation that are also insufficient to cover the costs of providing a high-quality medical service.
In order for PGK to maintain a high standard of service and maintain the cost of the equipment that helps to provide that service, a fee is charged. We understand that this may not be favourable to all patients and we endeavour to use our professional discretion to reduce fees where applicable.
What is Bulk Billing?
In the simplest of terms, bulk-billing means you don’t have to pay for your medical services rendered from a health professional – it is covered/taken care of by Medicare Australia.
The doctor is paid directly by Medicare for the service provided to the patient. The amount paid for the medical service is an amount that is set by the Australian government. Some services including occupational health, work cover consultations, insurance documents and private certifications are not covered by Medicare and would incur a charge.
Do we bulk bill?
Yes we bulk bill! However, please be aware that each doctor at the practice may have a different set of fees for their services. You will be informed accordingly upon booking or alternatively, please make contact to find out more.
Bulk billing is available to all Medicare card holders for the following:
• Telephone/Telehealth Consults (available only to patients who have previously attended the clinic in the preceding 12 month period)
• Residents of Aged Care facilities
• GP Management Plans, Team Care Arrangements and care plan reviews
• Mental Health Care Plans & their reviews
• MBS/Medicare Health Assessments
• Over 75s mandatory Older Driver medicals
Note: A private fee applies for patients who are not eligible under the above bulk billing criteria.
Why do we not bulk bill everything?
The Government has a set amount for specific services through the MBS (Medicare benefits schedule). Therefore, there are amounts that are approved for a consultation that are also insufficient to cover the costs of providing a high-quality medical service.
In order for PGK to maintain a high standard of service and maintain the cost of the equipment that helps to provide that service, a fee is charged. We understand that this may not be favourable to all patients and we endeavour to use our professional discretion to reduce fees where applicable.
Why would I choose to pay a private fee rather than go to a bulk billing clinic?
Bulk billing clinics are amazing, however the Medicare rebates have not changed in over a decade. As a consequence of this, doctors often need to see more patients in an hour in order to cover the cost of maintaining the clinic. This may mean that the doctor has a limited amount of time to address all your medical concerns because of time constraints caused by financial strain. Private fees can provide medical centres with more freedom to spend time with their patients without jeopardising the financial means required to keep a medical centre open and running effectively.
What are the fees for patients not covered by Medicare?
While we strive to keep healthcare accessible, patients who do not hold a valid Medicare card (such as international visitors or certain visa holders) will be charged a private fee. This fee allows our doctors the necessary time to provide high-quality, thorough care without the constraints of the public rebate system.
Our Current Fee Schedule:
- Weekday Standard Consult - $80
- Weekday Long Consult - $110
- Weekend Standard Consult - $100
- Weekend Long Consult - $120
Why are there different fees?
Standard Consults: Typically cover a single straightforward matter or a follow-up.
Long Consults: Recommended if you have multiple concerns to discuss, complex medical histories, or require mental health support.
Weekend Rates: Reflect the additional costs of operating the clinic and providing staffing during out-of-office hours.
Please Note: Payment is required in full at the time of your consultation.
