Medicare
Clients of psychologists may now obtain Medicare rebates for psychological therapy services. A Medicare rebate fact sheet is available to help you find the service you need and information about rebates.
To obtain a medicare funded service from a psychologist you must follow the steps below:
1. Visit your GP if you think you have a psychological condition that requires treatment (eg. depression, anxiety, stress)
2. Obtain a referral letter from the GP to the psychologist
3. Contact the psychologist to make an appointment
You may be eligible for 6 sessions followed by another 6 sessions if necessary, per 12 month period.
If the psychologist bulk bills: You pay nothing
If the psychologist charges more than the rebate (ie. bills you): You pay the psychologist for the service and obtain a receipt which you take to Medicare as you do for medical expenses and obtain a refund from Medicare for the difference between the rebate and the fee charged by the psychologist
If you need to cancel an appointment, please tell us at least 24 hours ahead of time, otherwise we may charge you for the missed session.
Health insurance rebates
If you have private health insurance with extras, including Clinical Psychology, you will need to make payment at the time of the session and then obtain a rebate for part of the fee by presenting your receipt to your health fund. The Australian Psychological Society has more information on health insurance rebates and psychologists.
