26th July, 2002
New Health Department figures show Victorian bulk-billing is in a tailspin with many doctors abandoning the system in the state’s regional areas.
Patients in central northern Victoria are hardest hit with only 37.2 per cent of doctor visits bulk billed, roughly half of the national 74.5 per cent average. The bayside area of Flinders experienced the biggest nation wide decrease, bulk-billing services plunging 20.1 per cent over a two year period.
In response to the dramatic drop in bulk-billing AMA Victoria President, Mukesh Haikerwal, said "the issue of the Medicare rebate for patients, which we as taxpayers are entitled to has not been addressed."
"General Practice is a small business and to survive on the inadequate Medicare rebate (bulk billing) is not financially viable."
"The patient Medicare rebate has been stagnant and does not reflect the cost of providing a complex, valuable and ultimately essential service."
"Clearly it is becoming a choice between paying a gap or having no service at all."
"Maintaining the current situation is another example of the contempt which the Health Department and the Federal Government have for your family doctor."
Dr Haikerwal said the connection between soaring insurance costs and the drop in bulk-billing could not be ignored.
"Even in our State, which prides itself on social justice, it is difficult for the local doctor who wants to keep caring for you but cannot absorb rocketing medical indemnity costs," said Dr. Haikerwal.