Notice About Billing

Dear Patients,

Essential care family Medical Center prides itself on providing the community with holistic and quality care with connection and meaning.
Unfortunately, Medicare rebates have failed to keep up with inflation and do not reflect the cost of delivering high quality care. This includes the increasing costs of medical equipment, staff wages, business rent, medical insurance, professional development and training. We have desperately endeavoured to keep the majority of our appointments bulk billed through charging only the first consultation of the year, however this has not been financially sustainable. This has meant it is difficult to maintain the high level of care that you have come to expect from us under a bulk-billing model. The practice needs to move to a mixed billing model of care, otherwise there is a risk the practice will close its doors entirely. The practice staff and the doctors would like to emphasise that this decision has not been taken lightly.

From the 1st of August 2023, our doctors will be moving to a mixed billing model of care. Children 16 years and under, Pension/Healthcare/DVA card will be bulk billed. For those who do not fall under this category, there will be a private charge for every consult. Medicare rebates can be processed on the day if you have an account with Medicare.
We will continue to provide you with a high standard of care. Thank you for your understanding and entrusting our team to look after you and your family.

The Team at Essentials care Family Medical centre .