Pathology Testing Services Must Remain Bulk-Billed

Published November 2024

You received an SMS confirming that your pathology test was bulk-billed. 

Here’s why this is so important:

Pathology testing plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing health conditions. Bulk billing ensures that essential pathology tests remain accessible to all Australians, regardless of their financial situation.Did You Know? 70% of all medical treatment decisions rely on pathology tests, and 99.6% of these tests are currently bulk-billed by Medicare. For the 14 million Australians who undergo pathology tests each year, these tests are vital because they help doctors make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment. That’s why it’s essential to keep pathology testing bulk-billed, ensuring this important healthcare service remains accessible to everyone.

What does “bulk-billed” mean?

In Australia, we are lucky to enjoy a world-class public healthcare system where many necessary health services are “bulk-billed”. This means you don’t have to pay for the service yourself. There are no out-of-pocket costs for you; instead, the healthcare service provider sends the bill directly to Medicare, and Medicare pays the full amount.

Examples of medical services that might be bulk-billed, depending on the provider, include:

  • GP visits
  • Pathology tests
  • X-rays and other radiology services
  • Eye tests performed by an optometrist

The role of pathology

GPs and other healthcare professionals rely on pathology for many important diagnoses, including:

  • Diseases and chronic health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes
  • Infections like STIs, flu, and COVID
  • Routine health checks, such as those performed during pregnancy

Millions of Australians, including vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, rely on pathology testing services each year. Pathology provides patients with the insights they need to make informed decisions about their treatment and management.Take action today! Click on the button below to email your local MP about the critical need for pathology funding in this year’s election. Your voice matters in securing the future healthcare for all Australians.

Email Your Local MP