A recent report by Cleanbill reveals that access to bulk billing for healthcare in Australia is declining sharply, leaving many Australians facing increased medical costs. Currently, only 21% of GP clinics offer bulk billing to new patients, a significant drop from 35% in 2023. The average out-of-pocket expense for a doctor’s visit has risen to nearly $44, marking a rise from around $40 two years ago. Alarmingly, over 1.5 million Australians refrained from visiting a GP last year due to cost concerns, a 25% increase compared to the previous year.
The study highlights a stark contrast across states, with New South Wales leading in bulk billing at 34.5%, while South Australia and Tasmania report significantly lower rates, at 7.4% and none for new patients, respectively. The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) urges that urgent funding is required to expand bulk billing options, especially with an upcoming federal election. RACGP President Dr Michael Wright asserts that adequate investment in Medicare is essential for decreasing patient costs and enhancing healthcare access. This investment is crucial not only for individual health outcomes but also for alleviating pressure on the broader healthcare system.