If you’re new to Australia, it might be tricky to understand all the terms we use to talk about health.

That’s why we’re here! We will explain what Medicare is and what’s covered by it. Some overseas visitors have access to Medicare, but we’ll also talk about your options if you do not. We will also explain what ‘bulk billing’ is and how to visit your doctor cheaply.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is Australia’s basic health insurance. It gives Australians and some overseas visitors access to medical services for free or at a low cost. Medicare is free, but you do have to apply for it.

Which visas are eligible for Medicare?

Some overseas visitors can get a Medicare card. You can check if you can get Medicare here (available in different languages).

What is a Medicare card used for?

Medicare covers many medical services, including hospital visits and tests. This article tells you what is covered.

A Medicare card also gives you access to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This makes many prescription medications cheaper.

What is not covered?

Medicare does not include some services, such as:

• Ambulance
• Dental
• Glasses and contact lenses

Private health insurance may help cover the costs of these services.

Visit privatehealth.gov.au for more information.

Do I need Medicare for sexual health?

Medicare will cover HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection pathology tests (such as blood and urine (pee) tests). If you get tested by a private doctor, you might get charged a fee for the appointment.

Medicare also lowers the price of PREP and many other prescription medications.

But there are lots of different ways you can protect your sexual health without Medicare.

• Some sexual health services, such as the  Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, offer free care for international visitors.
• You can buy condoms cheaply at supermarkets and pharmacies. There’s a few different ways condoms can be used to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Find out more here.
• Some sexual health services offer free HIV testing without Medicare. Use this interactive map to find a service near you.
• HIV treatment is free without Medicare from public hospital pharmacies in most states.

What is a General Practitioner or GP?

A GP, which stands for General Practitioner, is the first doctor you see when you have a health issue. Visit a GP (not the hospital) if you have a non-urgent health issue. They can treat and diagnose most basic conditions. GPs also refer you to get tests or see other doctors. There may be a cost to see your GP with or without Medicare.

Some things GPs can help you with:

• Colds and flus
• Getting a medical certificate if you are sick from work
• Getting a medicine prescription
• Mental health referrals
• Sexual health screening

How to find a General Practitioner?

To find a GP in your area, you can use HealthDirect’s service finder.

You may also want a doctor who understands your cultural background. Many GPs use HotDoc to book appointments. You can filter by ‘languages spoken’ to find a doctor who speaks your language.

You can change your doctor if they do not understand your cultural or LGBTQ identity. If you have a bad experience with a GP, you can raise a concern here.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is a doctor’s appointment over the phone. You can get a telehealth appointment if you don’t need a physical exam. For example, if you need to renew a prescription. Telehealth is good if you don’t have time to travel to a service or live far away from your doctor.

Check with your GP if they can do telehealth appointments.

What is bulk billing?

When a health service ‘bulk bills,’ it means the cost of your appointment is free with Medicare.

Not all GPs bulk bill, so check their website or reception for appointment fees.

What if I don’t have Medicare?

You may need private health insurance if you are on a visa and can’t access Medicare. When you pay for insurance, it will cover some medical services, such as visiting a GP.

You can visit privatehealth.gov.au for more information.