Medicare Provider Numbers
Medicare is Australia's universal healthcare system. It provides access to a range of medical services and subsidising the cost of healthcare for Australian residents. To practice in Australia, all GPs need to apply for a Medicare Provider Number.
By obtaining a Medicare Provider Number, GPs can play a vital role in providing accessible and affordable healthcare services to patients across Australia. Medicare is funded by the Australian government through taxes and levies. It covers a wide range of healthcare services, including:
- Consultations with general practitioners (GPs)
- Specialist appointments
- Hospital visits
- Diagnostic tests, and
- Prescription medications
While Medicare covers a significant portion of healthcare costs, individuals may still incur out-of-pocket expenses for certain services or treatments.
What's a Medicare Provider Number?
A Medicare Provider Number is a unique identifier issued to healthcare providers in Australia. It allows healthcare professionals to provide services that are reimbursed by Medicare, the country’s universal healthcare system.
Think of it as your license to bill Medicare for the medical services you provide.
Why is having a Medicare Provider Number important for GPs?
Having a Medicare Provider Number is essential for GPs practicing in Australia as it allows them to offer services covered under Medicare. Without a Medicare Provider Number, GPs cannot bill Medicare for consultations and services provided to patients.
It ensures that patients have access to subsidised medical care and helps GPs receive reimbursement for their services.
How to Get your Medicare Provider Number
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by Medicare Australia, which typically includes holding appropriate medical qualifications and meeting registration requirements.
Confirm your position at a medical practice or healthcare facility where you intend to work.
Register with the appropriate medical board in Australia, such as the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and obtain your medical registration.
Register with the appropriate medical board in Australia, such as the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and obtain your medical registration.
Confirm your position at a medical practice or healthcare facility where you intend to work.
Apply for a Medicare Provider Number through Medicare Australia or the Department of Human Services.
Provide necessary documentation, including proof of identity, medical qualifications, and practice details.
Your application will be reviewed, and if approved, you will be issued a Medicare Provider Number.
Once you receive your Medicare Provider Number, you can start practicing as a GP in Australia and bill Medicare for eligible services.
TRust Medical Recruitment
What are the 19AB restrictions and exemptions for overseas trained doctors?
- overseas trained doctors (OTD)
- foreign graduates of an accredited medical school (FGAMS)
Under section 19AB of the Act, access to Medicare benefits is restricted for OTD and FGAMS who either:
- gained their first medical registration on or after 1 January 1997
- became a permanent Australian resident or citizen on or after 1 January 1997
If this applies to you, there’s a restriction for 10 years. The good news is you can apply for an exemption from this restriction. If successful, you can claim Medicare benefits at the location where you’ll practice.
The most likely way of gaining this exemption is for you to practice in:
- a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) for general practitioners – these are areas where there is a shortage of GPs
- a District of Workforce Shortage (DWS) for specialists – these are where there is a shortfall in the number of medical specialists needed to meet the needs of the local population.
If you’re a temporary resident, you must always meet the criteria in section 19AB.
Once you gain permanent residency or Australian citizen there’ll be an end date on your restriction. This will be 10 years from when you registered with an Australian medical board.
If you’re worried about how section 19AB impacts your ability to work in Australia and access the Medicare system, the team at Trust Medical Recruitment can help you navigate the system.