Minister urges GPs to claim bulk billing millions Around $140 million remains ‘on the table’ following the introduction of the tripled bulk-billing incentive last year.
‘We need better measures beyond just bulk-billing rates’ The metric needs to be supported by better ways of assessing the true value and success of general practice, argues Dr Michael Wright.
Payroll tax relief for NSW GPs treating veterans In a move welcomed by the RACGP, the State Government has waived the tax on the care of veterans with a Gold, White or Orange DVA card.
Tripled incentive leads to GP bulk billing spike In the year since the incentive was launched, GPs provided 5.4 million extra bulk billed visits, with rates rising in every state and territory.
‘Troubling increase’ in patients avoiding GP due to cost With a 243% jump in NSW middle and high-income earners now delaying healthcare, the RACGP is calling for urgent intervention.
‘Practical barriers’ central to low childhood immunisation rates High costs and lack of appointments are the top reasons stopping Australian parents from vaccinating their kids, says groundbreaking new research.
Queensland Labor promises 50 new bulk-billing clinics While the RACGP welcomes the $365-million election commitment, it says the money would be better spent on improving existing services.
Final Review of General Practice Incentives report revealed It recommends a suite of changes which, if accepted, would see GPs’ incentives undergo a major shakeup, including a new payment architecture and a shift in the foundation of general practice.
Patient out-of-pocket costs climb The tripling of bulk billing incentives ‘made a significant impact’ but patient costs have risen by almost 6% regardless, says the RACGP as it demands more funding.
Government defers CDM Medicare item changes The concerns of GPs have been listened to, resulting in the Commonwealth delaying chronic disease management funding changes to 1 July next year.