Updated March 24, 2019 11:30:58 The Federal Government has approved a new program that will help Australians pay for their own emergency medical equipment and supplies.
The Medicare rebate will be rolled out over four years, beginning on July 1, 2020, to encourage Australians to shop around for medical equipment.
The Federal Government will roll out a new rebate scheme to help Australians buy emergency medical supplies from the big four medical manufacturers, which include the major manufacturers of medical equipment, on July 10, 2020.
The Government says the rebate will cover the following categories of medical supplies: medical instruments; medical devices, such as intravenous catheters and cardiac monitors; and surgical equipment and procedures.
The Medical Equipment Rebate Scheme will be introduced for the first time on July 5, 2020 with the first rebate period starting on July 2, 2020 and ending on July 11, 2020 at the same time as the Health Benefits Scheme.
It’s a new $1,500 rebate to encourage consumers to look for affordable emergency medical care and supplies, the Federal Government said.
“This rebates scheme is the largest of its kind in Australia, covering up to 100 per cent of the cost of emergency medical services,” Medicare Minister Jill Hennessy said.”[It] will help us help patients in times of need by ensuring they have access to the most up-to-date equipment, medical supplies and technology.”
A $400 rebate will also be available to eligible individuals who buy emergency supplies through Medicare and have a medical condition that makes them ineligible for Medicare.
Topics:health,medical-procedures,health-policy,australiaFirst posted March 21, 2019 16:57:42