For Hawkesbury residents organising specialist treatment, knowing the likely bill can be almost as important as securing an appointment.
National Seniors Australia is calling for closer examination of rising medical costs, arguing that clearer prices alone will not solve the difficulties patients face.
The organisation wants a systematic Productivity Commission review of the private health sector to investigate what is driving increases.
It also questions whether Medicare rebates adequately reflect the cost of providing care and warns that comparing specialists is not always practical when treatment is urgent.
For patients, one useful step is to request a written estimate before proceeding with private treatment.
The Australian Government’s Medical Costs Finder checklist says a quote should identify the treatment, Medicare item numbers, fees and location. It should also explain whether other doctors, such as anaesthetists, will be involved and what they may charge.
Residents can discuss public and private options with their referring doctor and ask their insurer about cover before committing.
The Medical Costs Finder provides cost information, but a general estimate should not replace a quote for an individual patient’s treatment.
Follow the link for further information https://medicalcostsfinder.health.gov.au/
Sources: National Seniors’ policy position and the government’s patient checklist.
