The out-of-pocket medical expenses will be reduced for families needing life-saving scans like ultrasounds and X-rays with an almost $200 million investment, Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said.
“It is the first time in 20 years the indexation of Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items will be expanded to all ultrasound and diagnostic radiology services over three years from July 1 2020,” he said.
“This means that the Medicare rebates for about 90 per cent of all diagnostic imaging services will now be indexed.
“This includes X-rays for fractures, mammograms, pregnancy ultrasounds, echocardiograms, angiograms, image guided procedures and CT scans for the diagnosis and management of cancer.”
“More than nine million patients use diagnostic imaging services each year.”
“This investment will support patients needing these important diagnostic services and encourage diagnostic imaging providers to maintain or increase their level of bulk billing.”
“It will reduce the burden on local families when a family member needs diagnostic imaging scans.”
“Diagnostic imaging for every child who breaks an arm, older members of our community with broken hips and even a simple broken finger will receive a higher rebate.”
“Ultrasounds for pregnant women, people needing cardiac ultrasounds and ultrasound guided procedures will also receive higher rebates.”
