We have no individual healthcare plans. Everyone is covered for virtually all needed healthcare treatment.
(note that the term Medicare is the term for the generic, public healthcare system accessed by all Australians).
Medicare provides benefits for:
- consultation fees for doctors, including specialists;
- tests and examinations by doctors needed to treat illnesses, such as x-rays and pathology tests;
- eye tests performed by optometrists;
- most surgical and other therapeutic procedures performed by doctors in public hospitals;
- some surgical procedures performed by approved dentists;
- specific items under the Cleft Lip and Palate Scheme;
- specific items under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program; and
- specific items for allied health services as part of the Chronic Disease Management Plan.
Pharmaceutical
Under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) you pay only part of the cost of most prescription medicines purchased at pharmacies. The rest of the cost is covered by the PBS.
The amount you pay varies, and is dependent on the type of medicine, up to a standard maximum. People with Government-issued concession cards have a lower maximum payment.
Medicare does not provide benefits for the following:
- most dental examinations and treatment;
- most physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, eye therapy, chiropractic services, podiatry or psychology services;
- acupuncture (unless part of a doctor's consultation);
- glasses and contact lenses;
- hearing aids and other appliances; and
- home nursing.
You can arrange private health insurance to cover many of these services. Most insurers will have limits on how much you can claim per service and per year.
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What is covered by Medicare?
