Hi,
My Mother is visiting is for the UK for a couple of months. Unfortunately she tripped on Christmas Day and as a result she has torn her Achilles tendon and also has dvt (docs think it's as a result of resting her leg to aid recovery of Achilles injury).
Christmas Day I took her to hospital, they said they didn't think she had torn her ligaments and told her to rest.
Anyhow, she went to my local gp yesterday and he referred her to a private imaging who confirmed she has dvt and torn ligament. The scan cost $300.
We are going to see the gp this morning to see what treatment is required.
I called the insurance company my Mum used, and they've told me she is not covered for these scans etc as she should be using the free public system as UK residents are covered under the reciprocal agreement in Australia.
Even though it looks like we have to find the cost of the scan and doctors fee at $75 per visit, should we therefore tell the gp today that any treatment she requires should go through public (free) service?
I take it free service means turn up at local hospital and queue in a and e?
Do I need to take my mother to Medicare first?
This is annoying as we are following doctors advice which is important as dvt is serious.
What is the point taking out travel insurance when visiting Australia when they do not cover private, and when it's not required public due to the reciprocal agreement?
Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Mike.