Overview
- From November 1, incentives will apply to consultations for anyone with a Medicare card, not just concession holders and children under 16.
- A new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program adds a 12.5% payment that is split between enrolled doctors and their practices.
- The government says about 4,800 practices are needed to meet its 2030 target, with roughly 900 notifying they will switch to full bulk-billing at the start.
- Health Minister Mark Butler says a full-time GP who fully bulk-bills could see annual earnings rise from about $280,000 to roughly $405,000.
- Some GPs warn the 12.5% split could advantage larger corporate clinics, and the government says it has sent tailored financial information to every clinic.