Bulk Billing on last legs - AMA
AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said today that December 2002 quarter GP bulk billing rates released by the Health Insurance Commission (HIC) confirm the demise of bulk billing in Australia, with the rate falling to 69.6 per cent - now under 70 per cent and the lowest in more than a decade.
HIC figures show that GP bulk billing fell a further 1.6 percentage points in the December quarter over the previous quarter - a total drop of 5.6 percentage points in 2002, with a 4.3 percentage point drop in the last six months.
Dr Phelps said the AMA has been telling the Government for years that bulk billing is a thing of the past, but they would not listen.
"The reports of the death of bulk billing are not an exaggeration," Dr Phelps said.
"The Government must now inform the Australian public of its 'plan' - flagged this week by Health Minister, Senator Kay Patterson - to preserve and maintain affordable and equitable access to health care.
"Poor health policy over many years has led to this situation. There are fewer doctors and people are paying more to see a doctor when they can find one.
"Many Australian towns and suburbs are losing their community GPs and there is nobody available to replace them.
"This should not be happening in a modern society. Poor remuneration, long hours, excessive red tape, and insufficient training places for young doctors are all contributing to this crisis.
"The Government must consult with the medical profession and the Australian people to preserve a proper level of health care and equitable access to that care for the whole community, but especially for the poor, the disadvantaged, and the chronically ill.
"The Treasurer, Peter Costello, said yesterday there would be no new money for health in this year's Federal Budget.
"Today's bulk billing statistics should send a signal to the Government and the Treasurer that ignoring health is a perilous policy path.
"The Australian people want and deserve a quality health system and the Government must deliver it," Dr Phelps said.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306