Linda Lushardi

Unfortunately in recent months my health has taken a real nose dive, and this week i've have yet another bombshell dropped.
I am already shelling out a lot of money on prescriptions, specialist appointments and so forth. I know that once you reach a certain amount of expenditure on these things you dont have to pay anymore, and/or you can claim it back. Can anybody tell me what happens? Do they automatically tell you when you hit the limit, or do you have to find this out for yourself?.

ABCDiamond

PBS Safety net thresholds on Pharmaceutical benefits - Information from: http://www1.health.gov.au/pbs/contents/explain5.htm
&
http://www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/...safety_net.htm

There are two safety net thresholds - one for general patients and the other for Concession Card patients.

The general patient safety net threshold for 2006 is $932.10 (2005 was $874.90). When patients and/or their families reach this amount, they can apply for a Safety Net Concession Card and pay only $4.70 per prescription for the rest of the calendar year.


Medicare Safety Net

Details at:
http://www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/...vices/suhc.htm
http://www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/...eshold_300.htm
If you need to see doctors or have tests regularly you could end up with high medical costs—the Medicare Safety Net is designed to help you when you need it most. It means that once you reach a safety net threshold, visits to your doctor or having tests may end up costing you less.

All families and couples need to register. Even if all your family members are listed on your Medicare card you still need to register for the safety net.

The 2006 General Threshold is $1,000 (2005 was $716.10) for all Medicare card holders.

Linda Lushardi

Thanx Erik you're a star as usual.

I was going to do a search myself but thought it would be good to have a thread on it so others coming over could gain the info also.

ABCDiamond

Hope it helps

I keep it all handy, and updated as much as possible, on my new info site

In case anyone wonders, I didn't read, then search and then type all that lot in 7 minutes

Linda Lushardi

Just had a quick peep at it and i think i've scuppered myself as i didnt realise i had to keep all receipts. In our recent move i think i may have thrown some out!!

ABCDiamond

You can get copies of costs from Chemists, useful if you only use one or two chemists during the year, but not very helpful if you shop around a lot. You just need your Medicare card and ask them for a list of your eligible expenses with them.

Doctors fees etc. A bit harder, you need to ask if they can supply copies.

Being an accountant, I don't even think about that... I have copies of everything
I am going to have to have a clear out though, (I just looked, out of curiosity, and found the receipt for a new kettle £48.99 in 1998 (UK), and 64cents for Hubba Bubba in 2002 !! )