The Medicare system is on the cusp of a major overhaul. From 1 November 2025, new rules around bulk billing will take effect and they’ll impact how you bill, how you're paid, and how you support your patients.
In a bid to improve access and affordability in primary care, the government is introducing a new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program, offering financial rewards to clinics that commit to fully bulk billing all Medicare-eligible patients.
While the incentives may seem attractive on the surface, many in the medical community have raised concerns that they may still fall short of covering the true cost of delivering quality care.
If your practice opts in, you could gain access to a range of new supports, including:
Importantly, you won’t need to worry about the extra administration requirements. Services Australia will handle the data monitoring and payment process. It’s also critical to note that the program is completely voluntary, meaning your practice and its GPs cannot be forced into these bulk billing changes.
For many clinics, the decision to shift to full bulk billing will involve much due diligence. To help guide your thinking, here are a few key questions to consider:
As a practice owner, bulk billing sits at the intersection of ethics and economics. On one hand, universal access to healthcare is something most believe in. But the reality is increasingly difficult. Rising operating costs, staffing pressures, and the frozen Medicare rebate have made it harder to deliver care while maintaining a sustainable practice.
If you’re unsure whether the upcoming changes are right for your practice, now’s the time to start the conversation. We’re here to help you assess the numbers, understand the criteria, and make a decision that supports both your patients and your bottom line.
Book a complimentary consultation with our medical accounting specialists today by calling 1800 988 522 or visiting cutcher.com.au