Medicare is the cornerstone of the Australian healthcare system. Australians and permanent residents can access inexpensive healthcare through this publicly supported health insurance program. However, what is covered by Medicare? Who qualifies? And what are some ways to maximize it?
This post will explain the fundamentals of Medicare in Australia, including what it is, how it operates, and how to get the benefits to which you are legally entitled.
| Medicare benefits schedule | Medicare levy exemption | Medicare claim |
| Medicare phone number | Medicare urgent care clinics | Medicare rebate |
| Medicare levy | Medicare safety pin | Medicare online |
| Medicare login | Medicare application | Medicare change of name |
| Medicare card | Medicare levy surcharge threshold | Medicare benefits |
- What is Medicare used for in Australia?
- Who pays Medicare in Australia?
- What are the disadvantages of Medicare in Australia?
- Do Australians have to pay for Medicare?
What Is Medicare?
Australia’s universal health insurance program is called Medicare. It was created in 1984 with the goal of providing all Australians with free or heavily discounted medical care from physicians, specialists, and, in certain situations, allied health professionals.
The Medicare Levy, which is normally 2% of your taxable income, is how taxpayers pay for Medicare. A Medicare Levy Surcharge may also be incurred by certain high-income individuals who do not have private health insurance.
What Does Medicare Cover?
Numerous medical procedures are covered by Medicare, but it’s crucial to know what is and isn’t covered.
Services covered by medicare:
- Fully or partially subsidized doctor appointments (GPs)
- Appointments with specialists: partially funded
- Treatment at public hospitals is free if you are admitted as a patient.
- Certain pathology tests and scans, like blood tests and x-rays, are covered.
- In public hospitals, some surgeries and procedures are covered.
- Mental health services: Up to ten free consultations with a mental health specialist annually (with a recommendation from a general practitioner)
- Eye exams by optometrists.
Services not covered by medicare:
- The majority of dental care
- State-by-state variations in ambulance services
- Costs of private hospitals
- Contact lenses and glasses
- Cosmetic operations
- Certain chiropractic and physiotherapy services (unless included in a care plan)
How to Enrol in Medicare
You might qualify for Medicare if you’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a holder of a specific visa (such as a student from a nation with a reciprocal healthcare agreement or a citizen of New Zealand).
To sign up:
- Apply online at myGov or in person at a Medicare Service Center.
- Present identification documents, such as a birth certificate, passport, or visa.
- Get your Medicare card with the Express Plus Medicare app, either in hard copy or digitally.
What Bulk Billing Means for You
Bulk billing is one of the most well-known phrases in Australian healthcare. This means you don’t have to pay anything out of pocket because the doctor invoices Medicare directly for the entire cost of the procedure.
Always check before your visit because not all doctors, especially specialists, bill in bulk. The gap fee, which is the difference between the Medicare rebate and the final amount, could be assessed to you if they don’t bulk bill.
Medicare and Private Health Insurance
Many Australians choose for private health insurance, even though Medicare covers a lot of necessary services. This can assist in covering:
- Private hospital stays
- Physio, dental, and optical
- Steer clear of the Medicare Levy Surcharge if you make a lot of money.
You get access to private hospital rooms, more options, and faster wait times for elective operations if you have private insurance.