Bulk billing rates fall again: Medicare rebates must increase
The latest figures from the Health Insurance Commission show that bulk billing rates in Australia fell by another 0.5 per cent in the June quarter 2001 - representing a fall of more than two per cent over the last twelve months.
AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said today that the most telling factor in these figures is that it is the first time for many years that the June quarter figures have not shown a seasonal jump.
"The onset of winter usually sees a sharp increase in GP consultations, most of which are bulk billed," Dr Phelps said.
"But this year there is a seasonal dip for the June quarter.
"The continuing rapid decline in bulk billing confirms that Medicare rebates are inadequate, and patients will continue to pay higher gaps for their medical services.
"These figures send a clear message to the major parties as they prepare their health policies for the election: fix the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS)!
"If the major parties want to display a genuine commitment to Medicare, they will raise the Medicare rebate to a level that allows patients to access affordable health care and that allows GPs to stay in practice.
"If they do not act, we will see the end of bulk billing in Australia.
"If they do not act, the aged, the frail, the poor, and families with children will be denied access to our universal healthcare system.
"The AMA has a solution to the bulk billing crisis. It is called the Relative Value Study (RVS).
"The Government and the Opposition are both welcome to take the RVS and place it at the heart of their health election promises.
"The future of Medicare is at stake at the next election, and these figures confirm it," Dr Phelps said.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Sarah Crichton (02) 6270 5472 / (0419) 440 076
Attachment: Graph: The fall and fall of bulk billing rates in Australia, 1997-2001