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You’ll want to make sure that your health and the health of your family is in good hands. Medicare, Australia’s national health program, furnishes the nation with outstanding health care and medical services. Drawing from both public and private health facilities and funded through taxable income, Medicare is available to any citizen or permanent visa holder and provides full coverage for any GP visit and/or public hospital costs (one exception is bulk billing, described below). Private healthcare providers are also available.
(Situations requiring the use of ambulances are not covered through Medicare. The cost for ambulance service is $600, unless one purchases additional coverage at $80, per year.)
Doctor’s Visits
Most doctor’s visits cost around $60. After the initial payment, you are eligible for a $40 rebate through Medicare. Some doctors provide “bulk billing”—one fee for the complete cost of the consultation. If your situation requires additional treatment or services, such as an x-ray, you can file for a return of up to 75% from Medicare.
Prescriptions
“Chemists,” or pharmacists, are authorized to dispense prescription medications. Each suburb has a 24-hour pharmacy, although most are open from 9-5. Cost varies based on the chemist you choose and the type of medication prescribed.
Private Healthcare
In addition to government-sponsored Medicare, you may want to consider Private Health Cover, which can be tailored to suit your specific needs. Here are approximate costs:
- Single: $1,300 per year
- Couple: $2,000 per year
- Family: $3,000 per year
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Head Office 1300 768 218
from overseas call +61 8 9296 4733
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