Understanding Bulk Billing Processes in Australia

Bulk billing is a popular choice of receiving Medicare payment for doctors in Australia, but the process might be a bit confusing for patients. Before making an appointment with any healthcare professional, it's vital that you understand how you'll be charged and what is covered by Medicare and other insurance options. While your healthcare provider can answer specific questions about your needed procedures and costs, note some vital information about bulk billing so you know what to expect with this option.

How Bulk Billing Works for the Doctor

A bulk-billing physician bills Medicare directly for applicable charges rather than billing the patient for procedures covered by the Medicare Benefits Schedule. The physician then receives a portion of the scheduled fee for those services.  

Benefits of Bulk Billing

A healthcare provider who employing bulk billing practices avoids the risk of non-payment by a patient. He or she also avoids debt collection fees, late payments, patients wanting to arrange partial payments or payment plans and so on.

A patient receiving Medicare benefits also avoids the hassle of having to pay medical bills directly to the physician or having to contact a Medicare office for reimbursement and so forth. A patient receiving Medicare benefits who chooses a bulk billing doctor also doesn't need to worry about prepayment or having to pay at the time of treatment, late payment fees or other such hassles and inconveniences.

Questions About Bulk Billing

One common question from patients is if doctors are required to bulk bill, but note that bulk billing is at the discretion of the healthcare provider. He or she can still bill patients, require upfront payment for certain treatments and so on.

Note, too, that only treatments and services covered under the Medicare Benefits Schedule are covered by bulk billing. If you need treatment or services not covered under Medicare, even if you're receiving Medicare benefits, you would be responsible for those costs. In some cases, those treatments might be covered by additional insurance providers. Your healthcare provider or insurance provider can answer questions about specific treatments not covered by Medicare.

It's also vital for patients to understand that bulk billing is considered payment in full for services. While a doctor might bill patients for treatments not covered by Medicare, he or she cannot bill patients for added fees related to anything reimbursed through bulk billing. Contact your Medicare office if you have questions about bulk billing and your healthcare provider.

Share