The number of GP clinics offering bulk billing is plummeting, with a new report revealing that only one in four clinics are now offering this service to patients.
This is a catastrophic trend, especially during a cost-of-living crisis, where many people are already avoiding doctor’s visits due to rising costs.
What is Bulk Billing and How Does it Work?
Bulk billing means that patients don’t have to pay anything for their doctor’s visit, as the GP bills the government directly through Medicare.
However, with the decline of bulk billing options, patients are now facing significant out-of-pocket costs.
In fact, over 1.2 million Australians didn’t visit a GP in the last financial year due to cost concerns, which is twice as many as the previous year.
The Cost of Visiting a GP: A Growing Concern
At GP clinics that charge out-of-pocket fees, patients are now paying an average of $41.69 per visit, which is higher than the Medicare rebate rate of $41.40.
This amount has increased by 3.5% since the start of 2023. The worst affected are patients in Tasmania, who are paying an average of $51.19, followed by those in the Australian Capital Territory, who are paying $49.39.
The BIGGEST Losers: States with the Largest Decline in Bulk Billing
The report found that Western Australia, South Australia, and New South Wales have seen the biggest cuts to bulk billing, with declines of 17%, 13.6%, and 11.4% respectively.
This is a worrying trend, especially considering that almost 200 GP clinics closed last year.
The Impact on Healthcare: A Royal Australian College of GPs Spokesperson Speaks Out
Dr. Nicole Higgins, president of the Royal Australian College of GPs, has expressed concern over the decline of bulk billing, stating that “we can’t afford to lose any more” GP clinics.
She has called for more government support to ensure affordable healthcare for all Australians, citing the 10-year freeze on patient Medicare rebates as a major contributor to the decline of bulk billing.
The Financial Reality of Being a GP: Why Bulk Billing is Essential
The report highlights the financial challenges faced by GPs, who can see up to three patients in an hour, with each consultation generating a Medicare rebate of just over $40.
After the practice takes its share, the GP is left with around $90 per hour, before tax. This is a stark reminder of why bulk billing is essential for ensuring that GPs can provide affordable healthcare to their patients.
What’s Next? A New Scheme to Boost Bulk Billing
In November, a new scheme was introduced to triple the rebate available to GPs to bulk bill concession card holders and children under 16 for most standard consultations.
While this is a step in the right direction, more needs to be done to address the decline of bulk billing and ensure that all Australians have access to affordable healthcare.