Gumeracha Medical Practice

Health Care Funding Reality Check -Bulk Billing Increase isn’t what it seems.

📢Over the next month we will hear about the Australian Government commencing what they call a major investment into General Practice funding. From November 1st, the bulk billing incentive payment once restricted to low income earners and pension recipients will be extended to every person with a Medicare card, no matter their circumstances. This is being promoted as the reason why “9 out of 10 GP visits will be bulk billed.” 🤦‍♀️But there is an important caveat — the government is only increasing bulk billing incentives — not the Medicare rebate itself. This does not address the fact that the underlying rebate — the patient’s refund from Medicare — remains totally inadequate to support high-quality General Practice care.
💲Costs increasing faster than rebates
As we’ve spoken about in past editions, rebates were frozen for a decade and, even though annual indexation is again happening, the increases fall well short of real-world cost pressures. Take this year as an example: wages increased by 3.5%, superannuation rose another 0.5%, and health cost inflation was around 6%. So practice costs increased by over 10% in total, yet the rebate only rose 2.4%. This funding shortfall has compounded year on year to the point where rebates now cover only about one-third of the real cost of providing care. 😢

Beginner Move 3 - Step ups (C'mon - Step up to the 12 week Challenge!)
https://youtu.be/WCFCdxzFBa4

Research shows that community based activities can have real impact on mental health. Connection, purpose, and goals are necessary for all of us. Even when formal treatments are needed, evidence proves they are more effective when paired with what are now called social prescriptions — opportunities to join, create, and belong.
🌟Spaces to simply be:
• Men’s Sheds
• Walking groups
• Community cafés
🌟Opportunities for growth and contribution:
• Volunteering
• Local art or music groups
• Environmental and gardening projects
🌟Supports with guidance and structure:
• GP check ins
• Health assessments
• Structured group programs (e.g., exercise, mindfulness, or lifestyle groups)

Monday 6th October is a Public Holiday and Gum Medical will be closed. If you need medical care while we are closed - remember 000 for emergencies. The Nurse Led Clinic at Gumeracha will be open & can be contacted by phone 📞82099220. Alternatively, Hello Home Doctor may be able to assist 📞134 100 or advice is available from Health Direct 📞1800 022 222.