BulkBilled Telehealth for Pensioners

After the recent changes to the Medicare Benefit Scheme (MBS), you may be wondering: “Do pensioners still get bulk-billed telehealth access?” The short answer is yes. Concession cardholders can access free telehealth, but you need to know how and where.

The government actually incentivised clinics to offer more bulk billing last year, but it’s not available across the board. This patient guide explains how the system works, what the latest government incentives mean for you, and which providers you can trust for a seamless experience with no out-of-pocket costs.

Since the changes to bulk billing at the end of last year, there has not only been a change in the MBS but also in how telehealth providers have responded. In a nutshell, the government is encouraging patients to either use telehealth via their primary GP (whose clinic the patients have been to in person in the last 12 months) or via their registered MyMedicare clinic. This is meant to ensure the best continuity of care, while still allowing patients to access after-hours bulk-billed GP consults and care for specific conditions.

Providers have responded in several ways: allowing patients to attend via a hybrid model of in-person and telehealth appointments (New Doc), offering bulk-billed after-hours telehealth consults (Hola Health and Healthy Life), or continuing their full bulk billing for online GP consults (Abby Health). Finally, there is the fully bulk-billed government-funded 13SICK telehealth and home call service.

As providers receive higher incentives for bulk-billing appointments for pensioners and concession cardholders, including telehealth, many local clinics also offer registration for these bulk-billed services to new clients (Panraa Clinic).

While bulk billing is widely offered, it’s best to check at the time of booking, ideally by phone or live chat. You’ll need to provide your valid Medicare card as well as a Pensioner/Concession Card for some providers.

Some services may require you to register with MyMedicare [1]. While this is optional, it is highly beneficial, as it gives you access to longer bulk-billed telehealth consults at your chosen home clinic. If you have visited the same clinic twice in the past 24 months, you can enrol in this voluntary model. It makes it easier to ensure long-term coverage and dedicated consultations.

Even with a wide range of online providers on offer, your regular GP remains central to your care. This is reflected in the government’s MBS. Your primary GP knows your medical history, any allergies, chronic conditions, and your needs or preferences.

If you have an established relationship with a local practice, you can often access bulk-billed telehealth through that clinic’s own platform. Registering them as your home practice with MyMedicare enhances this established relationship and means you’ll get longer consultations (often 20 minutes or more) without any out-of-pocket cost. Their continued care and oversight will help ensure that you’re well taken care of, even if you use other telehealth providers for after-hours care, for example.

Yes, pensioners and concession cardholders will still be bulk billed, although not at all telehealth providers. There is a wide range of options available. Registering with MyMedicare will further improve your access and level of care. For the latest provider details and to compare options, head over to MediCompare’s bulkbilling page.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please choose your provider with care and always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional regarding any health-related questions or concerns.

[1] https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/register-for-mymedicare?context=22751