Phone Consult Payments

Bulk Billing and Dressing/Additional Fees Explained

 Central Clinic aims to achieve 100% compliance with Medicare’s rules. Medicare Benefits Schedule - Note G7.1 details

“If a practitioner bulk bills for a service the practitioner undertakes to accept the relevant Medicare benefit as full payment for the service. Additional charges for that service cannot be raised. This includes but is not limited to: any consumables that would be reasonably necessary to perform the service, including bandages and/or dressings…”

(Source www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/provider/medicare/bulk-billing.jsp).

Why is there a charge for dressings, plasters, suture removals, etc.?

Central Clinic charges fees for items such as dressings, suture removal, plasters, etc. for the purpose of shared cost recovery. These fees have been determined in consideration of the cost of the materials, nursing time, procedure room supplies, waste disposal, sterilisation, and other factors. Simply accepting the bulk billing amount from Medicare for appointments requiring items such as the above does not adequately compensate your Doctor and the practice for the service provided.

Why do I have to pay for my appointment today when I am usually bulk billed?

According to the Medicare rules discussed above, when your treatment requires an additional charge for items such as dressings, plasters, suture removal - you cannot be bulk billed. Generally a $42.85 fee (the exact amount the practice would have received if you were bulk billed) will be charged when attending the clinic for a dressing or suture removal. This fee may be higher depending on the length of the appointment. You will be required to pay the fee for your appointment in full at reception upon the conclusion of your visit. However, the good news is this fee is fully rebatable from Medicare. Central Clinic electronically submits your Medicare claim on your behalf. If Medicare has your bank account details, payment into your account usually occurs within 24 hours. Any additional fees (e.g. a dressing fee) will also be charged and you will also be required to pay this fee in full at reception upon the conclusion of your visit. Fees for these items are not rebatable from Medicare.

Medicare have your bank account details?

The quickest way to receive your rebate is to provide Medicare your bank account details. Visit My.gov.au for more information or attend your local Medicare office (42 Queen Street, Warragul).

Why did I not have to pay a fee at another clinic?

Central Clinic is not able to explain why and how other clinics may have charged for services. We work within our understanding of the Medicare rules and the guidance provided by The Department of Human Services. If you have questions regarding fees please discuss them with your doctor.