MEDICARE needs urgent funding to support more bulk billing and reduce out-of-pocket costs, according to Cleanbill's 2025 Blue Report, released today.
The percentage of practices bulk billing new adult patients without concession cards has dropped to 21%, the report reveals, while average out-of-pocket costs increased by 4.1% to $43.38.
The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) said the findings demonstrate a need for the Federal Government to invest in Medicare and increase patient rebates.
"With a federal election fast approaching, we should be seeing bold commitments from all political parties to achieve this," RACP President Dr Michael Wright said.
"Today's patient rebates don't come close to the cost of care, so people are paying more out-of-pocket, and it's harder for GPs to bulk bill.
"When people can't see their GP or delay care due to costs, their heath gets worse and they are more likely to end up in hospitals.
"The RACGP has been calling for an increase in patient rebates, particularly for longer consultations," he added.
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