Doctors, dentists and prescriptions
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Find a doctor
Doctors and practice nurses work in a general practice (medical centre). Find a medical centre to enrol with.
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Paying for doctor's visits
Doctors set their own fees. Children and some people who need to visit their doctor often can get free or subsidised visits.
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Seeing a specialist
When you see a specialist, you’ll visit a medically trained and registered healthcare professional in that field of medicine. In most cases, you need to visit your General Practitioner (GP) first so they can refer you.
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Prescription charges
There used to be a $5 charge for standard prescriptions — this is now free. Prescriptions from specialists and non-publicly funded providers still have a $15 prescription charge until you qualify for the prescription subsidy scheme.
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Prescription subsidy scheme
If you’ve paid for 20 prescriptions in a year (from 1 February), you won’t have to pay the $5 charge for any new prescriptions until 1 February the next year.
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Dental care
Basic dental services are free until you’re 18. If you need dental care after 18, and you’re on a low income or have a disability, illness or injury, you can apply for government help.