Patients Australia, in collaboration with La Trobe University, has released the 2025 Patient View Report, shedding light on the increasing financial burden faced by Australians seeking healthcare services.
The report indicates that 62% of patients incur out-of-pocket expenses when visiting their GP, with nearly half of these individuals paying an average gap fee of $51 or more.
Furthermore, the study reveals that almost three-quarters of patients pay out-of-pocket fees for specialist consultations, with two-fifths facing costs of $201 or more. Alarmingly, one in five patients reported skipping specialist appointments or declining treatment due to financial constraints.
The findings suggest a shift from a universal healthcare system to a 'user pays' model, where out-of-pocket costs are becoming significant barriers to essential care. Patients Australia advocates for stronger consumer protections and measures to ensure the long-term affordability of specialist care for all Australians.
For health care professionals, these insights highlight the growing financial challenges patients face and the potential impact on healthcare access and outcomes. Practitioners should be aware of these trends and consider how they might affect patient engagement and the demand for services. Additionally, understanding the implications of these financial barriers can inform discussions around insurance coverage and the need for policies that support both providers and patients in navigating the evolving healthcare landscape.
Published:Thursday, 29th Jan 2026 Source: Paige Estritori
Bupa, a leading health insurer in Australia, has unveiled plans to significantly enhance mental health services by establishing a network of clinics named Mindplace. This initiative aims to open 60 clinics nationwide by 2027, aligning closely with the government's objective of operating 61 walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres by mid-2026. - read more
In response to financial challenges faced by Cohealth, a non-profit community health service, the federal government has allocated $1.5 million to maintain its GP services in Melbourne's inner north and west. This funding ensures that clinics in Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Kensington will remain operational until 31 July 2026, providing essential care to approximately 12,500 patients who were at risk of losing access to their GPs. - read more
Patients Australia, in collaboration with La Trobe University, has released the 2025 Patient View Report, shedding light on the increasing financial burden faced by Australians seeking healthcare services. The report indicates that 62% of patients incur out-of-pocket expenses when visiting their GP, with nearly half of these individuals paying an average gap fee of $51 or more. - read more
Australian insurers are actively revising their investment portfolios in response to evolving geopolitical events and a stabilizing economic environment. A recent report by Janus Henderson Investors reveals that 47% of insurers plan to increase their investment portfolio risk in the next 12 months, with a significant focus on private markets. - read more
Life insurance is an essential safety net for families, providing financial security when it's needed the most. As your family grows, the importance of having a well-structured life insurance policy becomes even more critical. In the busy lives we lead today, it’s easy to overlook this crucial aspect of financial planning. However, ensuring your coverage meets your family's evolving needs is vital. - read more
Income protection insurance is a type of coverage designed to provide you with a steady income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Unlike other types of insurance, which may focus on lump-sum payments, income protection insurance prioritises regular income replacement to help cover your everyday expenses. - read more
For many Australian families, the concept of estate planning might evoke imagery of vast wealth and complex legal documents, reserved for the very affluent. However, this misconception overshadows the universal importance of having an estate plan, which at its core, is about ensuring your loved ones are cared for and your wishes are honored upon your passing—even if you don't consider yourself wealthy. - read more
Running a cafe is more than just a business; it’s a passion for many. However, for cafe owners, the risk of an injury or illness that could interrupt their ability to work is a genuine concern. Disability income protection is crucial as it provides financial security if you're unable to earn an income due to health issues. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Flood Insurance: A specific type of property insurance that covers losses and damage caused by flooding.
