As you may be aware from the news, general practice is going through a rough time due to rising practice costs and stagnant Medicare rebates. There’s an increasing trend that many general practices have become, or will become, financially unviable and consequently have to close doors.

In order to keep our doors open and keep on looking after patients, we’ve come to the difficult conclusion that our private fees policy must be adhered to more strongly and consistently.  

During weekdays (before 5:30pm), bulk billing remains available, but only for pensioners and children under 16.

For weekdays after 5:30pm, and Saturday, bulk billing is NOT available.  Private fees will be charged, regardless of age and pension status.

In addition, private fees apply to the following consultation types, at all times, regardless of age and pension status:

• Wound dressings and procedures (including wound repairs, skin biopsy, skin lesion removals, plastering)

Out of pocket expense of each consultation ranges between $50 to $90 depending on the length of consultation.  Additional fees apply for procedures and dressings.

Private fees must be paid at the time of each consultation.

Acceptable methods of payment include cash, EFTPOS and credit cards (VISA and Master).