These payments and services form a universal health care system that ensures all Australians have access to free or low-cost medical, some optical and hospital care. Australians can choose private health services and, in special circumstances, allied health services. The Private Health Insurance Rebate is available to people who are eligible for Medicare services and who are members of a registered health fund.
There are several Medicare payments and services that can help when you or your dependant family members use health care services or need medicine. These include Medicare bulk billing, the Medicare Safety Net, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and the PBS Safety Net.
These payments and services will help you cover costs when you or your dependants use:
- out-of-hospital services such as a visit to your doctor
- in-hospital services
- prescription medicines
- health care services in certain countries
