*jane*

Apologies if this has already been done to death, but can anyone explain how Medicare works?

I've recently arrived in Sydney on a 457 visa linked to my boyfriend's job, but neither of us are sure how we're fixed re. doctors visits etc. Help!!!

Dizzillusioned

Hiya, have a look at this link

http://www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/...vices/am.shtml

We've used the doctors a couple of times, you need to find one who does Bulk Billing, we didn't pay anything.

bridie

Swings and roundabouts re bulk billing.

On the plus side you dont have to pay anything out, the Dr does it all direct

On the negative side we've found our bulk billing Dr tends to make us come in for every little thing, even results of some tests which most Drs give out over the phone, which is a pain when you have to work for a living!

stevemich

We are on a 457, and you should get Reciprocal care only - meaning emergency and necessary treatment...
However, we have had no problems using the card when we visit the doctor for the regular stuff - we just end up paying the remainder between the doctors fee and the Medicare contribution (the same as most people).
Had a child out here too, and that was all covered under Medicare...

Good luck!

*jane*

Thanks for the advice guys, much appreciated!

Jockstar

Whats do you mean?

stevemich

OK... badly phrased..
we pay $60 (or whatever it is) upfront to the doc then get credited back $32 (or whatever) from Medicare a week or so later, meaning we pay the difference...