Australian Healthcare System Overview

General Practitioner (GP)

• First point of contact for medical issues.
• Handles general medicine.
• Provides referrals to specialists if necessary (e.g., gastroenterologist for severe tummy ache).

Medicare

• Definition: Public health insurance scheme in Australia.
• Covers:
  • Public hospital fees for emergencies.
  • Out of hospital care (partial cost if no bulk billing).
  • Some subsidized medications.
• Doesn't Cover:
  • Dental care, private hospital stays, or ambulance services.
• Bulk Billing: Full coverage of medical costs by Medicare.
• Medicare Rebate: Partial refund for medical services not fully covered.
  • Example: GP visit cost of $98; Medicare rebate $39, out-of-pocket $58.

Eligibility for Medicare

• Permanent residents or humanitarian visa holders can access Medicare.
• Citizens of certain countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements (e.g., UK, Italy, Netherlands).
• Temporary visa holders generally need private health insurance.

Private Health Insurance

• Supplementary to Medicare.
• Cost: Varies based on cover type; typically around $100 AUD/month.
• Benefits:
  • Covers some/all medical costs.
  • Covers both public and private hospital stays.
  • Extras like dental care and ambulance services.
• Pre-existing Conditions:
  • 12-month waiting period for coverage.

Difference Between Public and Private Hospitals

• Public Hospitals:
  • Covered by Medicare, generally free.
  • Long waiting times.
• Private Hospitals:
  • Quicker service but costly.
  • Owned by private companies.

Emergency Procedures in Australia

• Call triple zero (000) for serious emergencies.
• Emergency room visit for serious but non-life-threatening issues.

Community Health Centers

• Provide medical services for low-income individuals.
• Fees based on client’s ability to pay.

Additional Information

• Videos available on other services like hairdressers, dentists, psychologists, etc.