The Australian Medicare system is great, but does our country bad when it comes to being in debt.
A typical example of the system is this – If I felt a little off today, I would attend my local family doctor’s surgery. He would see me, recommend treatment and then all I have to do is swipe my Medicare card and the visit is for free.
Because I have private health care as well (which Medicare gave me 30% rebate on) I go to the pharmacist for tablets and my private health insurer would also pay for the tablets.
If I needed immunisation today, because I am in the health industry, I would also get my immunisation for free.
On top of that, Medicare (the Australian government) also pays for the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (cheap pharmacy drugs or free pharmacy drugs), immunisation, organ donation, payment benefits for health staff to work in rural areas, hearing services, medical care for war veterans and widows of war veterans, and also family assistance schemes (those who are financially struggling).
I love getting everything for free in Australia, however, I do pay very high taxes in order to do so. There are millions of people claiming services from Medicare every year.