Medicare's Safety Net must catch those most at risk

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling for the Medicare Safety Net thresholds to be lowered to ensure the most vulnerable Australians can access essential general practice care. 

In a submission to the federal Department of Health and Aged Care’s Medicare Safety Net Reform Working Group, Australia’s peak general practitioner (GP) body says the Medicare Safety Net thresholds need to be lowered so people across all income brackets can benefit.  

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said the Safety Net is there to help reduce out-of-pocket medical costs for Australians, but many people on low incomes are missing out.  

“As it stands, people can’t benefit from the Medicare Safety Net if they can’t afford the upfront out-of-pocket cost of seeing their GP – this means the most vulnerable Australians, those on low incomes are being left behind,” she said. 

“A recent newsGP poll found 66% of respondents agreed the Safety Net thresholds are too high.  

"Lowering the Safety Net thresholds will improve access to essential GP care for people on low incomes, and mean fewer people put off seeing their GP due to financial strain. This would provide significant financial relief, particularly for people with chronic health conditions or high healthcare needs. 

“There is no substitute for the quality care you get from a GP who knows you, and your history. This care helps people stay healthy and out of hospital, and it must be affordable for everyone. With the cost-of-living crisis, we’re seeing more people having to choose between healthcare and other life necessities. 

“We know when people can’t access GP care, they get sicker and end up in hospital, which costs our health system much more.  

“We also urgently need meaningful investment to increase patients’ Medicare rebates, which have not kept up with inflation and no longer cover the full cost of providing care.   

“We’re continuing to call for an increase to rebates for longer consultations - to reduce out of pocket costs for patients so they can access the care they need. 

“General practice care must be affordable for everyone, and the RACGP looks forward to collaborating with the Department of Health and Aged Care to ensure the Medicare Safety Net is effective, and that everyone can access the essential healthcare they need, when and where they need it.” 

~ENDS