What does bulk billing mean, and who can bulk bill me?
Bulk billing means Medicare pays the doctor directly and you pay nothing. Here's how it works for GPs, specialists and allied health.
Bulk billing means your doctor accepts the Medicare benefit as full payment for a service. Medicare pays the practice directly, so you don't pay anything on the day and there is no gap to claim back. You will usually be asked to sign or confirm the claim, and you need a valid Medicare card.
Who decides whether to bulk bill?
Each doctor or practice decides whether to bulk bill. Some bulk bill everyone, some bulk bill certain groups, and some charge a private fee. A practice is allowed to change its billing policy, so it's worth checking each time you book.
- GPs: many general practices bulk bill. Since November 2025, Medicare pays GPs extra incentives when they bulk bill any patient with a Medicare card, not only children and concession card holders.
- Practices that choose to join a newer government program agree to bulk bill all eligible visits. Joining is voluntary, so not every clinic does.
- Specialists: some specialists bulk bill, especially in public hospital clinics, regional areas or for certain patients. Many charge a private fee and you pay a gap. See Bulk billing, rebates and gap fees explained.
- Allied health: providers such as physiotherapists or psychologists can bulk bill Medicare-rebated sessions, but most charge a fee above the rebate.
Bulk billing versus a gap fee
If a service isn't bulk billed, you pay the doctor's fee and Medicare pays you back a rebate. The difference is your out-of-pocket cost, often called the gap. Many practices can lodge the claim for you so the rebate goes straight to your bank account.
Bulk billing only covers services listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule. It does not cover things like missed appointment fees, some forms and reports, or services Medicare doesn't fund. Medicines, ambulance trips and most dental care are also separate.
How to find out before you go
- Ask the practice when you book: 'Do you bulk bill this type of appointment for me?'
- Check whether bulk billing depends on the appointment type, such as telehealth, a long consult or a procedure.
- If you hold a concession card, mention it. Some practices bulk bill concession card holders even if they charge others.
- If you're worried about cost, tell your GP. They may know specialists or public clinics that bulk bill.
On Spec Book, each specialist or allied health listing shows whether they bulk bill and their usual fee, so you can compare before your GP sends the referral.
If you have a lot of medical costs in a year, the How does the Medicare Safety Net work? can increase your rebates for out-of-hospital services.
Common questions
Can a practice bulk bill me one visit and charge me the next?
Yes. Billing is decided per service, so a practice can bulk bill some appointment types and charge for others. Ask when you book.
Do I need a Medicare card to be bulk billed?
Yes. Bulk billing is a Medicare claim, so you need to be eligible for Medicare and give your card details. Some visitors from countries with a reciprocal agreement may also be covered for certain care.
Can I be charged a booking fee if I'm bulk billed?
A practice that bulk bills a service shouldn't charge you an extra fee for that same service. If you're unsure about a charge, ask the practice or contact Services Australia.
General information only, not medical advice. Everyone's situation is different, so check with your GP or the provider. In an emergency call 000.