Fears over changes to bulk billing in Qld, impact on emergency departments

Fears over changes to bulk billing has ignited passionate debate, with many Queenslanders revealing just how heavily they rely on it. JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Fears bulk billing could be a thing of the past in Queensland has sparked furious debate, as anxiety grows over the ripple effect on emergency departments.

Australian Medical Association Queensland president Maria Boulton is adamant doctors are to be hit with payroll tax that will force many practices to close.

The effect of that would likely be the wiping out of bulk billing and therefore further strain on already overwhelmed emergency departments.

Further strain could be heaped on Queensland hospitals if tx changes go ahead.

The government, however, denies there are changes to how doctors are taxed.

Regardless, the potential changes struck a nerve with couriermail.com.au readers, with 76 per cent out of more than 4000 voting that they “rely on bulk billing”.

Here is what you had to say on the matter on Facebook:

Tonii-Lee Betts

“Its already started to impact emergency departments as alot of drs have already stopped bulk billing.”

Clynton Hawks

“This government has failed our health system! This tax grab will hurt the everyday battler trying to make ends meet and access a GP …”

Stacey Yarnold

“GP’s deserve to be paid appropriately for their services. This government has failed then in a push for increased rebates. This they are forced to charge gap fees. It’s a sad state of affairs. However not the GP’s fault.”

Molly Doobars

“Talk about 3rd world country. Living in cars or tents .. no going to Dr ..can’t afford groceries. Welcome to Queensland the slum state.”

Sam Mitchell

“Pfft the only thing I get bulked billed is a eye test... The rest is paid out of my pocket... Why are we paying a Medicare Levy.”

Queensland hospitals are already under pressure in their emergency departments.

Jasmine Norris

“Australia has become difficult to live in with not being able to afford medical, housing and groceries. People living in cars or tents, can’t get a hold of medications due to no stock for months and with all the tax we pay still can’t afford to have bulk billing for a gp.”

Rose-Marie Wessling

“By the time you get an appointment which can be a fortnight’s time it’s too late anyway. This is why emergency departments are overwhelmed.”

Leah N Toloa Leapai

“Yep got hit $78 medical centre. Bad enough price of living, fuel everything else has gone up. families are struggling. What’s next. This is who we voted for.”

Readers fear what potential changes could do to Queensland hospitals.

Christine Pearson

“This will impact the health system now as people won’t be able to afford Dr so they will attend ED.”

Shan’o N Toria Roberts

“So people will end up really ill as they can not afford a doctor as well as trying to get by in every other area. Smart move.”

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