More than 50,000 children and their families and more than 130,000 pensioners and concession cardholders on the Central Coast will find it easier to see a bulk billed GP after Medicare changes which came into effect on November 1.
The largest investment in bulk billing in the 40-year history of Medicare saw the bulk billing incentive for local GPs tripled.
The Federal Government is also investing in a $1.5B indexation boost to Medicare rebates across the board, increasing the amount that doctors receive for Medicare services and reducing pressure on GPs.
Member for Dobell Emma McBride said the changes would make it easier for more than 11 million Australians to see a bulk billing doctor, including thousands on the Central Coast.
Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said primary care was fundamental healthcare.
“It is critical that we are doing everything we can to support our general practices to continue providing high-quality patient care,” he said.
“There are 73,130 people in my electorate who will benefit from (this) investment in Medicare, helping more people access a doctor when they need one.
“There is more work to do, and we are getting on with the job of addressing the issues in our healthcare system.”
Member for Shortland Pat Conroy said people shouldn’t be forced to choose between buying groceries or seeing their GP.
“This is the latest responsible step the government is taking to improve the health outcomes of people in our community,” he said.
“Along with restoring the hours for our community’s GP Access After Hours service and establishing Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, we are delivering on our commitments to make it easier for people to see a doctor.”
Source:
Central Coast Federal MPs