How Bulk Billing Works
When a doctor bulk bills, they accept the Medicare rebate as the full payment for the service. You don't pay anything — Medicare pays the doctor directly. You just need to present your Medicare card.
Not all doctors bulk bill. Some charge above the Medicare rebate, meaning you pay the gap. The gap can be anywhere from $20 to $100+ depending on the practice and location.
Who Gets Bulk Billed
Practices set their own bulk billing policies. Common approaches:
- All patients: Some practices bulk bill everyone
- Concession card holders only: Bulk bill if you have a Health Care Card, Pensioner Card, or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Children under 16: Many practices bulk bill children regardless
- No bulk billing: Private practices that always charge a gap
Bulk Billing Incentives
The government pays doctors a bulk billing incentive on top of the Medicare rebate for treating concession card holders and children under 16. This incentive was tripled in November 2023, making it more financially viable for practices to bulk bill these patients.
Finding a Bulk Billing GP
Call ahead and ask whether the practice bulk bills — and for which patients. Rates vary significantly by suburb and region. Metro areas generally have more bulk billing options than regional areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a doctor bulk bills?
Ask when you book. Practices must tell you before the appointment whether they bulk bill or charge a gap. Many list their billing policy on their website.
Can a doctor charge me if they usually bulk bill?
They should tell you before the appointment. If they bulk bill you, you can't be charged a gap for that visit. But they can change their policy and charge gaps for future visits.
Why don't all doctors bulk bill?
The Medicare rebate often doesn't cover a GP's costs — especially for longer consultations. Many doctors charge a gap to cover the difference between the rebate and their operating costs.