Hi

Just had my first trip to the doctors out here in Oz, unfortunately not for a minor problem.
Doctor has suggested a consultant appointment and then I will need an OP
Know that medicare will refund a propotion of my doctors fee which was $50.
Just wondered if that will happen with the consultants fee and the operation as well, or this could be quite expensive.
Any advice appreciated, thanks!

Gothchick

as my experience of the medicare system goes, i would think you'd get the op free through the public health system. you will likely have to pay the consultant's fee though, and get a portion of that back from medicare.

good luck, hope all goes ok.

We are on PR visas and our daughter had a major operation through the public health system this year, no charge but we did pay a percentage of the consultant fee.

my OH has had an operation and seen a consultant (not related).

Re the op, went to Drs (bulk billing thus no charge), Dr thought it could be appendicitis, suggest we go to ED, seen in ED stayed the night, had op in morning, stayed in hospital a week, saw consultant at hospital after discharge. All public & covered fully by medicare. Prescriptions whilst in hospital no charge, but had to pay for ones needed upon release.

Re consultant, saw Dr who refererred to specialist. As private consultant, paid full amount then claimed medicare - out of pocket by about $100.

If you are worried, I suggest you talk to your Dr to clarify what you will & will not have to pay for.

thanks everyone for your replys.