Medical Specialists to Disclose Fees Amid Bulk-Billing Rise

There has been the largest increase in bulk-billing rates in Australia in 20 years, as the government plans laws to crack down on soaring specialist rates.
Medical Specialists to Disclose Fees Amid Bulk-Billing Rise
Bank notes and coins are seen with a Medicare Card in Brisbane, Australia on May 1, 2013. AAP Image/Dave Hunt
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Medical specialists could soon be required to disclose their fees on a national database, as bulk-billing figures show the number of Australians getting free doctor appointments is on the rise.

Legislation expected to go before parliament this week would force all specialists to sign up to the Medical Costs Finder website—imposing new levels of transparency on doctors and allowing patients to compare costs.