Why your GP visit now costs more, despite a boost to bulk-billing rates

A boost to bulk-billing rates in Australia’s Hunter New England and Central Coast has not translated into cheaper GP visits for many patients. Medicare data released shows the bulk-billing rate in the Hunter district rose 6.5% over a year to 81% in the June quarter, up from 76% a year earlier, and the national rate rose 5% to 84.1%. But average out-of-pocket costs for GP visits in the region increased to $59 from $52. While federal officials said the improvement supports patients, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) NSW warned bulk-billing remains rare and that rebates have failed to keep pace with practice costs.