Not So Free Universal Health Care

Apparently, we have universal healthcare in Australia, but you wouldn’t know it if you visited the local clinic. I recently got an SMS from my local medical centre, and unsurprisingly, they’ve had to jack up their prices. Patient Notification: Fee uplift letter. Yes, it’s very uplifting. This letter is to advise you that there will be a consultation fee increase of 8.25%, which will take effect from July 21st! Only children under five will get a free consultation paid by Medicare, while everyone else will have to pay a gap fee, except people over 81 who have to have a Doctor’s Discussion, whatever that means. Fees will range from $90 – $200 and will be time based! Better watch the clock. Noting that the current Medicare rebate is $41.20, so you’ll be paying around $50 for the cheapest appointment! Specialty appointments and Skin Cancer services will attract a higher fee! Yes, this is what the current government are good at – letting prices get out of control!

#shorts