Practice Policies

Consultation costs

what are the costs?

The doctors in the practice do not all charge exactly the same fee for consultations, but the fees are in the generally accepted range. The fee depends on the type of consultation.

Initial consultation

A higher fee is charged when you see the doctor for the first time. This is because extra time is allocated for this visit. The Medicare rebate at present for an initial consultation is about $55, which covers half or more of the cost of the visit.

Subsequent consultation

A lower fee is charged when you see the doctor again. This is because less time is usually needed once the doctor has become familiar with your condition. The Medicare rebate at present for a subsequent consultation is about $27, which half or more of the cost of the visit.

Postoperative consultation

During the postoperative period, the cost of visiting the doctor is included in the operation fee. The period this applies varies according to the surgery, and is determined by the Medicare Benefits Schedule. For major surgery, the period is usually six weeks, but varies considerably.

Extra costs

If a procedure is performed at the time of the consultation, you will be charged extra for this. Procedures include injections, and application of and removal of plasters. You will be able to claim a Medicare rebate for these procedures. You may be charged extra for fibreglass plaster, splints, braces and collars. For some expensive braces and splints, you are charged a deposit and a rental fee.

How will I be charged and how should I pay?

You will be issued with an invoice at the end of the consultation, and will be required to pay at the time of the visit. You may pay with cash, cheque, EFTPOS or credit card (Mastercard and Visa only). You will need to pay the whole cost of the consultation, and then take the invoice to Medicare for a rebate. Concessions are not routinely offered for health care card holders. If you have a WorkCover claim and are seeing the doctor for your injury, you must provide your claim number, or you will have to pay the bill yourself. If someone else is to pay the bill, you must provide written authorisation.

What should I bring?

You will need a referral letter from your doctor. This is very important, as it tells the doctor what you have been sent for, and may give extra important information such as your illnesses or medications. Without a referral letter you will not be able to claim a Medicare rebate. You must also bring any x-rays or scans of the problem area. You should continue to bring all x-rays and scans to subsequent consultations unless your doctor tells you not to.