Where to Test

What does bulk billed mean?

Bulk-billed means that the entire cost of the service will be covered under Medicare, for those who hold a Medicare card. Some clinics will be mixed-billing, which means that there might be gap payments for some services, or that some services might not be covered under Medicare. Therefore, the only expense that applies is the cost of any medication you are prescribed.

Private billing is applicable when services are either not covered under Medicare, only partially covered by Medicare, or someone does not have one of the following:

• A Medicare card
• A Reciprocal Health Care Agreement
• Overseas Visitors Health Cover, or
• Overseas Student Health Cover

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services

Some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services may only provide services, or free services, to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. If you are considering using one of these services, contact them before attending to check who can access their services and whether any fees apply.

For example, Family Planning Australia offers free services (bulk-billed) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, full time students and concession card holders.

Your rights when accessing healthcare

Laws are in place to protect your rights as a health consumer. If a health professional breaches your privacy or discriminates against you, you may be able to make a complaint. You can make a complaint directly to the health service or to the health complaints organisation (health ombudsman) in your state or territory.
For more information, see Making Complaints about Health Care Services or contact your local sex worker organisation.