Struggling Australians lash out at price increase to see a GP

Australians struggling with the cost of living crisis have lashed out over a decision to charge patients more than $100 to visit a doctor. Vote in our poll and have your say.

Australians struggling with the cost of living crisis have lashed out over a decision to charge patients more than $100 to visit a doctor.

As of November 1, Aussies will have their fee increased for a standard non bulk billed GP appointment to $102.

The hip pocket hit comes after the Australian Medical Association (AMA) recommended doctors raise their fees to cope with galloping practice costs.

Hundreds of News Corp readers voiced their frustration over the price rise, which will be the third hike in doctor's fees this year.

One reader said: “This is where people will start dying more because they can't afford medical help. I need my heart looked at but with the cost of living it’s ridiculous.”

Another said: “A $100 GP visit to get a $13 prescription. Ridiculous.”

And another said: “I am completely gobsmacked, there is hardly a day that goes by that we are charged more and more for everyday services.”

But some people were supportive of the fee hike and believe doctors deserve to be recognised more for their work.

“My GP is worth every cent. She has three degrees, and she has cared for me for 30 years. She has kids, she has a husband and she has a life,” one reader said.

“She has helped me through 4 cancers and is compassionate, helpful and always there for me … Thank the stars for all doctors who are there for their patients.”

In some better news, however, more doctors are likely to bulk bill pensioners and welfare recipients and children aged under 16 when the government triples the bulk billing incentive it pays doctors next month.

Dr Danielle McMullen is considering reintroducing bulk billing when incentives are tripled in November. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Doctors in city areas will be paid $62.05 when they bulk bill pensioners and children while those in the bush will receive $81.10 when they bulk bill the same patients.

This is expected to benefit more than 11 million Australians.

AMA GP spokesperson Dr Danielle McMullen said her practice in Townsville, Queensland had stopped bulk billing patients as rising costs outstripped the Medicare rebate.

But because of this change, she will likely reoffer it again from November.