Bulk Billing vs Mixed Billing
For many General Practitioners across Australia, mixed billing remains the preferred model, particularly for newly Fellowed and seasoned VR GPs. In many cases, it continues to be the right fit.
However, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: bulk billing shouldn’t be overlooked without running the numbers first.
Looking Beyond Assumptions
Toward the end of last year, we worked with a long-standing, well-established practice to take a closer look at billing models. Using the most commonly billed Medicare item numbers, we compared mixed billing with a fully bulk-billing approach.
The results challenged some long-held assumptions.
Their modelling showed that moving to fully bulk billing could potentially result in:
While outcomes will always vary depending on location, patient demographics, and practice structure, this exercise highlighted the importance of assessing the numbers rather than relying on perception alone.
This Isn’t About Saying Mixed Billing Is Wrong
This isn’t an argument against mixed billing. For many practices and GPs, it will remain the most appropriate and sustainable model.
What is important is ensuring bulk billing isn’t dismissed outright without a proper financial assessment, particularly in light of recent Medicare incentive changes.
The Role of New Medicare Incentives
With updated incentives now in place, bulk billing may be more financially viable than expected in certain settings across Australia. In some communities, it can also play a key role in improving access to care while still supporting practice sustainability.
The key takeaway? Data matters.
Keeping an Open Mind When Considering Your Next Role
When exploring your next GP role, whether metro, regional, or rural, it’s worth keeping an open mind and not automatically ruling out bulk-billing opportunities.
Understanding the financial implications of different billing models allows you to make informed, confident decisions that align with your clinical goals, lifestyle preferences, and long-term career plans.
Run the Numbers for Yourself
If you’re curious about how bulk billing could look in your own circumstances, tools are available to help you assess the potential outcomes.
You can use this calculator as a starting point.
Talk to DXC Medical
At DXC Medical, we work with GP practices and doctors across Australia, offering insight into a wide range of roles, including bulk billing, mixed billing, and private billing opportunities.
If you’re considering a change, want to better understand how different billing models compare, or would like to explore GP roles nationally, our team is here to help.
Search GP Jobs here.
Contact:
Adelene Chew
Senior Consultant
+61 430 037 389
adelene.chew@dxcmedical.com.au
For doctors working towards Fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), understanding the three core exams, AKT, KFP and CCE, is a critical part of the journey. Whether you're a Partially Comparable international GP navigating the Specialist Pathway or a registrar progressing through training, these exams are key milestones on the path to independent practice in Australia.
Looking to fast-track your GP career in Australia? The Five-Year International Medical Graduate (IMG) Recruitment Scheme offers overseas-trained doctors the opportunity to work in rural and remote communities, while progressing toward specialist registration and reducing their moratorium.
