Retirees hit by doctor fee increase
The cost of seeing a doctor will increase from next month, leaving low income retirees struggling to cover the growing Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) rebate gap, according to seniors lobby group, National Seniors.
The cost of seeing a doctor will increase from next month, leaving low income retirees struggling to cover the growing Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) rebate gap, according to seniors lobby group, National Seniors.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) yesterday recommended that from 1 November 2013, doctors increase their fees by an extra $2, from $71 to $73.
The MBS rebate will reportedly stay the same as it is until 1 July 2014 when a freeze implemented by the former Labor government, to curb spending costs, loses effect.
National Seniors chief executive, Michael O’Neill, said in a released statement yesterday that low income retirees who were unable to access a bulk billing doctor may have to pay around $36 out of pocket just to see a GP.
“The cost of GP visits is becoming an increasing burden for older Australians, particularly those over 75 years who have multiple health conditions and need to see a doctor regularly,” he said.
He added the increasing gap may mean retirees on low, fixed incomes, would “skip” seeing their doctor altogether.
“The onus is either on doctors to show good will by deferring any fee increases until July or the new government to lift the MBS rebate freeze now.”
New National Seniors’ research to be released later this month shows pensioner households are reducing their spending on medical costs.
“This is a worrying trend as reduced spending on medical expenses could mean some pensioners are receiving less medical treatment when they really need it.”
