Medicare and the health insurance system can be quite complicated! The doctors we support strive to make their obstetrics fees simple and transparent and, to assist, they have provided a brief explanation of the different costs and rebates available for their patients.
Antenatal care
Specialist appointments in a clinic are classed as outpatient services and this allows you to receive a Medicare rebate which will partially reimburse your costs. You will receive a higher benefit from Medicare if your medical costs in a calendar year reach the medicare safety net threshold. Private health funds do not cover outpatient services.
Pregnancy management fee
Providing obstetric care involves a number of background costs that are not directly related to an appointment or the day of birth. These include insurance costs, coordinating availability for afterhours emergencies, and rescheduling other clinic patients to meet emergent needs for pregnant patients. All obstetricians charge a management fee to cover these costs.
An initial deposit towards this fee is requested between 20-24 weeks, and full payment between 28-32 weeks.
Birth
Fees from your obstetrician
Dr. Wickham and Dr. Bolton have both implemented a no gap charge to health funds for all hospital services provided during a patient’s admission to help families predict their financial costs. This measure is particularly beneficial for women experiencing pregnancy complications, as it protects them from sudden bill increases resulting from increased medical requirements. Additionally, it allows their patients to make decisions based on their and their baby’s needs during birth without worrying about financial pressures.
Fees from others
It is recommended that you speak with Bundaberg Hospital revenue department early in your pregnancy to confirm your insurance coverage and any hospital charges that may apply.
You may incur an “excess” charge. See explainer below.
If you do not have private health insurance, the hospital will request payment in advance for a three-night hospital stay, which typically amounts to around $2000 to $3000.
Fee schedule
Each doctor consulting from Celebrate Women sets their own fees, which can be found on their individual pages.
Dr. Julienne Wickham
Dr. Wickham’s fees can be found on her website.
Dr. Elizabeth Bolton
Dr. Bolton’s fees can be found on her page.
Other costs
Please be aware that some out of pocket expenses may still arise even when you are fully insured. Some examples of the additional costs that you should budget for during your pregnancy are below:
- Blood Tests
- Ultrasounds
- Private Paediatrician if applicable