Bulk billing rate continues to rise

Federal Member for Dobell and Assistant Health Minister, Emma McBride, has welcomed new data which shows the bulk billing rate continues to rise in the electorate.

The Federal Government invested $3.5B into Medicare in November 2023, to triple the bulk billing incentive for pensioners, concession card holders and families with children.

Since then, the bulk billing rate in Dobell has risen from 69.7% to 78.5% – an increase of 8.8%.

McBride joined Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Health Minister Mark Butler in Launceston earlier this year where the government announced an historic $8.5B investment into Medicare to expand the bulk billing incentive to every Australian.

An additional 12.5% incentive will be paid to GP practices that bulk bill every patient.

McBride said the Government was focused on strengthening Medicare and improving access to healthcare on the Central Coast.

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Lake Haven and Umina have seen more than 30,000 people, and a third local clinic will open in the near future.

“As a healthcare worker, I know how important access to affordable and timely healthcare is for people on the Central Coast,” McBride said.

“Our government’s investment in Medicare has delivered this significant rise in bulk billing in our community.

“From November, the bulk billing incentive will be tripled for every Australian and more locals will be able to visit the GP for free.”