Australia’s healthcare system Flashcards
What is medicare
Medicare is a public health system that covers all permanent residents of Australia.
What is the point of medicare
To improve the access to healthcare for all Australians, and to provide access to adequate healthcare at little or no cost to all Australians in need of treatment, regardless of age or income.
What is medicare funded by
General taxes
Medicare Levy contributions made to the healthcare system through a 2 per cent Medicare levy. This levy is paid by most taxpayers, is based on taxable income and is paid in addition to general income tax.
Medicare Levy Surcharge is an additional amount paid by individuals and families who do not have Private Health Insurance.
What does medicare cover
Consultation fees for GP’s, including some specialists
Tests and examinations by doctors needed to treat illnesses, including X-rays and pathology (blood) tests
Eye tests performed by optometrists
Most surgical procedures performed by approved dentists
Hospital bed or accommodation
Doctor or specialist assigned by the hospital
Nursing care, food, after-care by the treating doctor
What is Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance is a subscription or policy for which a person pays to provide them with different levels of cover.
Every private health provider has a range of plans which offer varying types of extras cover
Why would someone want Private Health Insurance
Choice of doctor in public and private hospitals
No waiting period for elective surgery, and non-urgent surgical procedures when you choose (Medicare patients must join a waiting list)
Choice of private hospital
Choice of shared or private room in hospital
Extras cover, which provides part reimbursement of fees for additional health services such as dentistry, chiropractic, physiotherapy, optometry, home nursing and podiatry.
What is excess in terms of private health insurance
An excess is an agreed amount that you pay directly to the hospital when you’re admitted. Choosing a higher excess can help keep your membership costs down.
What are extras
They are additional benefits that go beyond the basic hospital cover they can include services such as dental care, physiotherapy, mental health services and more. You can choose what extra you want to include in your planWhat
