Australian doctors are calling for an expansion of bulk-billing incentives to include people under 35, arguing that it would improve healthcare access for young Australians struggling with the cost of living.
Australian doctors are urging the government to extend bulk-billing incentives to people under 35, arguing that it would improve healthcare access for young Australians struggling with the cost of living. Currently, bulk-billing incentives, which provide bonuses to GPs who don't charge out-of-pocket fees, are only available for children under 16, pensioners, and concession cardholders.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) wants the next government to expand this program to include under-35s, citing data that shows a significant drop-off in bulk-billing rates once individuals turn 16. \The RACGP's analysis suggests that extending bulk-billing incentives to under-35s would save young people an average of $42 per doctor's visit and prevent 9,000 hospitalizations annually. They argue that better preventative care, earlier diagnosis, and chronic disease management would contribute to improved health outcomes for this age group. \The college estimates that the cost to the government would range between $390.6 million and $557.8 million per year, depending on demand. The Greens have proposed an even more ambitious plan, advocating for tripled bulk-billing incentives for all Australians, a move the parliamentary budget office estimates would cost an additional $3.8 billion over three years. Meanwhile, the current government reports a 1.9 percentage point increase in bulk-billing rates since the policy took effect in November 2023, rising from 75.6 percent to 77.5 percent. \The RACGP is also calling for a 40 percent increase in Medicare rebates for longer doctor visits, a 25 percent increase for GP mental health services, and increased funding for training new GPs. They believe these measures would collectively reduce gap fees, improve access to healthcare, and address the shortage of GPs in Australia. \As the federal election approaches, both the Labor and Coalition parties are vying to win over voters by outlining their plans for cost-of-living relief and healthcare policy. The Coalition is emphasizing its health record and guaranteeing increased Medicare funding under their leadership. Labor, on the other hand, is highlighting the Coalition's previous push for compulsory patient co-payments and the impact of a six-year freeze on Medicare rebates. The upcoming election will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare in Australia
HEALTHCARE BULK-BILLING AUSTRALIAN DOCTORS COST OF LIVING YOUNG AUSTRALIANS RACGP ELECTION
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