Guest myasiriqbal Posted October 10, 2016 Share Posted October 10, 2016 Dear All, I am suffering from Ulcerative colitis and on regular medication of Asacol (Mesalazine ) and ulternate Mesalazine Enemas. I am doing well with these meds. I got my PR 2 years back and had my first vist 1.5 year ago... I am planning to permanently move to Australia next month and need to know about Medicare benefits. My knowledge about medicare is very poor so if any one can help me understand how medicare system works. Also how much i have to pay for doctor consultation, meds charges or incase God Forbid my health deteriorates and doctor decides to go for expensive meds then what will be the coverage. I have also heard of people going for private insurance. What is this for and would it help me considering my medical situation and how much it will cost. A detail reply will be highly appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Diane Posted October 10, 2016 Share Posted October 10, 2016 I think the issue with private medical insurance might be getting cover for anything relating to your pre-existing condition. I'm sorry I don't know anything about Ulcerative Colitus specifically, but I have an auto-immune condition, so don't have private medical cover for the above reason. I have always found Medicare to be excellent though - I have seen doctors and specialists privately when needs be, and claimed a large percentage of the cost back from Medicare. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest myasiriqbal Posted October 10, 2016 Share Posted October 10, 2016 Thanks Diane, Could you please explain the procedure of how to use medicare or the process as i will be new to Australia. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
VERYSTORMY Posted October 10, 2016 Share Posted October 10, 2016 There are medicare offices in all major towns and cities. You go in with ID and register. This will allow you to then see a GP. GP charges will vary between free if they are what is called a Bulk Bill Doctor to about $40 a visit. Prescription costs will vary by the drug, though there are maximums per year a person has to pay, though I am not sure what the limit is, I seem to think it is a few thousand per year. After which meds are free. Hospital treatment can be another issue and if it is a treatment that is regarded as elective then you could face very long wait times, hence why many people have private insurance, there are also potential tax issues if you do not take private insurance as if you earn over a certain amount, you will be hit with penalties if you do not have private insurance. Also, some states operate a private ambulance system and if you need an ambulance it can result in a large bill. Lastly, dental work can be very expensive and so having dental insurance as part of your overall health insurance can be a very good idea Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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