We have it, and have had for years.
Picked up 2 pairs of glasses for the youngest this morning, cost no extra. All 4 of us can get 2 new pairs each year.
I use the chiro & physio on a regular basis due to my back, and the others do so as needed.
On top of that, podiatrist & dental visits....
SWMBO works for an OB/GYN. Most people dont realise that a specalist receives the same Medicare rebate for a consult as a GP. That is for a standard consult. A GP also has the ability to claim for an extended consult, but a specalist does not.
Now, considering most specalists spend up to 15 years in training, (7 for GP, then about the same in their chosen field), they are not looked after by Medicare all that well.
When new patients enquire about the fees, she tells them the Dr's charges in total. They can then get the Medicare rebate, and she gives them the codes to check with their private health fund to see how much they will pay.
Often, it means the patient is around $2k out of pocket for a birth. Sounds a lot, but for that, you get 15 years training, plus all your checks, plus a doctor that will get out of his bed at 3am to come & deliver your baby.
Now, this doc also teaches & consults at a public hospital, so he is not all that busy counting his money...
Yes, Private Health Insurance is expensive. And in recent times I have experienced both the public & private system. I can tell you there is one private hospital that I would never attend again, despite them having an Emergency Room, which costs $350 to get in the door. The care was substandard, and they seemed to be counting the cost of everything they provided. Including the medications. In direct contrast, both SWMBO & myself have had stays in the local public hospital. The care was outstanding, and nothing seemed to be any trouble.
And, considering the price of the drugs she needed, they were in NO hurry to get rid of her. ($450 per does, 4 times daily for 7 days... :o )
