Further downward spiral in bulk billing rates The first statistics since the Budget show one of the biggest year-on-year falls yet, with new incentives due to kick in from November.
Budget reveals $5.7 billion general practice investment Funding will go towards the creation of a new level E consultation item, rebate indexation, telehealth, the bulk billing incentive, and multidisciplinary care.
Pushback against proposal to restrict MBS access to bulk-billing GPs There are concerns such a change would create a two-tier system and ‘completely undermine’ the universality of Medicare.
Around $4b lost in Medicare freeze A new analysis lays bare the impact caused by the long-term devaluing of general practice, highlighting the urgent need for investment.
‘We can’t keep going this way’: GPs’ petition to save bulk billing Higher rebates and funding for longer consultations are among the all-too-familiar requests, with a GP Principal saying more clinics will close if there is no change.
Brisbane bulk billing rates falling fastest: Survey A survey reveals the impact of ‘inadequate’ Medicare rebates in billing trends, with a similar shift noted across the country.
Court rejects ‘sick tax’ appeal, politicians urged to step in The NSW Court of Appeal has thrown out an attempt to overturn a controversial payroll tax ruling, but GPs are determined to ensure its likely impact on patients is understood.
Fall in bulk billing a rising concern for patients Worries about GP costs are now one of the main issues for patients, with new bulk-billing data indicating that may rise further.
‘The virus has evolved’: Fifth COVID dose available soon Adults will become eligible for a fifth dose from 20 February, supported by a new incentive for GPs attending aged care and disability facilities.
COVID vaccination billing streamlined Medicare rebates for COVID-19 vaccination have increased to compensate for the removal of booster and PIP payments.