Seeing a doctor when money is tight
Health and feelings · 3 min read
Bulk-billing clinics, community health centres and after-hours lines mean you can be seen without paying up front. You do not need a fixed address.
Ask "do you bulk bill?" when you book
It is a normal question and reception is asked it all day. Community health centres and Aboriginal medical services bulk bill as standard.
No Medicare card is not a dead end
You can get your Medicare number over the phone, and clinics can look you up. If you are not eligible for Medicare at all, community health centres and some charities still see people for free.
Ask for a longer appointment if it is complicated
If you need a mental health plan, a letter for housing, or several things at once, say so when you book so they give you the time.
Before the appointment
- Ask if they bulk bill
- Ask for a long appointment if I need one
- Write down the three things I need to say
- Take any medicine boxes with me
- Ask for a copy of any letter or plan
- Ask what happens next and when
All guides · Read this in the app
This is general information, not legal, financial or medical advice — the rules differ between states and territories.
Not an emergency service
If you’re in immediate danger, call 000. For family and domestic violence support any time, call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).