Chesters called Medicare rebate increase a ‘game changer’

THE amount GPs are able to bulk bill for some patients increased by up to fifty per cent of 1 November following Federal Government changes.

It’s the largest rebate increase to bulk billing in 40 years and Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters said the aim is to make healthcare more accessible.

“I know how important it is for our community to be able to see a doctor when and where they need it,” she said.

“Our historic investments into bulk billing will make a big difference in Central Victoria.”

Ms Chesters said during the last nine years, bulk billing rebates had reduced, which has made a visit to the doctor more expensive.

She said she hopes the funding will make it easier for more than 19,000 children and their families as well as more than 56,000 concession car holders and pensions in the Bendigo electorate to visit a GP.

The increased bulk billing rebates only apply to children under 16,  pensioners and concession cardholders.

“Doctors’ groups have called this a game-changer and GPs have said this will help them maintain and even shift back to bulk billing,” said Ms Chesters.