A 1000 free clinics across the country, a 20% increase in Medicare patient rebates, and tripled bulk-billing incentives for everyone with a Medicare card. Bliss.
The Greens have launched their healthcare election platform including a $54 billion over 10 years “GP for free” plan which the party claims will save adults around $324 a year, and $338 for children.
“The Greens are fighting for outcomes for everyday people, and that means being able to see a GP, psychologist, dentist or nurse for free with your Medicare card,” said Senator Sarah Hanson-Young.
“The Greens’ suite of policies to get mental and dental into Medicare, expand bulk billing and build free local healthcare clinics so we can all see the GP for free will make Medicare fit-for-purpose in 2025.
“We can’t keep voting for the same two parties and expecting a different result. If you want to see the GP for free, the first step is to vote for someone who’ll fight for you.”
The plan includes the establishment of 1000 free local healthcare clinics across the country, with government-employed healthcare professionals providing free services, with at least six free clinics in each electorate.
The clinics will provide access to free healthcare from a GP, dentist, registered nurse, or a psychologist with no out-of-pocket costs.
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The Greens say they will also triple the bulk-billing incentive for everyone with a Medicare card, not just specific cohorts.
The party will also support doctors to spend more time with patients who need it by implementing a 20% increase to Medicare patient rebates for longer appointments and will ensure that GP trainees receive equal pay to their hospital trainee counterparts.
“Each of these policies as part of the GP for Free plan has been independently costed by the PBO,” said the Greens’ announcement.
“Based on this analysis, our plan would be expected to cost approximately $54b over the coming decade.
“A national poll funded by The Greens has shown that 74% of the people agree that the government should ensure people can go to the GP for Free.”