Australians are paying more than ever towards their healthcare costs, with rising insurance premiums, technology, and transport costs among the factors behind the increase.
The Senate is today expected to table its report into rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
The ABC has learned it says much of the rising cost of healthcare is down to more expensive premiums, new medical technology, and increased medication prices.
The report is expected to call for doctors to be compelled to be more upfront with patients about potential costs involved with procedures.
It will also recommend the government streamline its complex network of medical safety nets.
It is likely to suggest a GP co-payment would make out-of-pocket costs worse.
The inquiry received more than 100 submissions from across the healthcare sector.
It looked at spending trends, impact of co-payments on access, sustainability of the health system, private health insurance and safety nets.
Submissions suggested dental care, unsubsidised medicines and travel were also driving up costs.
Medical devices and implants such as pacemakers were also not covered by the Government.
The Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) said each year Australians spent $7.7 billion on medicines and $4.7 billion on dental care.
“Australians regularly report cost as a reason for avoiding or delaying care,” chief executive Alison Verhoevan said.
“Increasing specialist fees also contribute to growing out-of-pocket costs.”
Patients will forego expensive treatment: Greens
Greens health spokesman Dr Richard Di Natale said evidence showed the more expensive medical care became, the less access patients had to the health system.
“[Patients] won’t go and see a GP, they won’t go and get scripts filled, they won’t go and get blood tests,” he said.
“What are preventable problems become much more expensive and serious problems requiring hospital treatment.”
Labor health spokeswoman Catherine King said the Government’s cuts to health would force people to choose between feeding their families, heating their home or paying for health care.
“Waiting lists in hospitals will increase as the GP tax drives patients into already overstretched emergency departments,” Ms King said.
Health Minister Peter Dutton has been approached for comment.
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