The Australian Society of Anaesthetists (ASA) is calling for urgent action from both Government and private health insurers to address the growing gap between anaesthesia fees and the rebates paid, which is leaving patients with increasing out-of-pocket costs.
ASA President, Dr Mark Sinclair, said patients can be confident their anaesthetist is a highly trained, ethical registered medical specialist whose focus is always on safe, high-quality care and the best possible patient outcomes.
"When patients are preparing for surgery, we strongly encourage them to speak directly with their anaesthetist. Our specialty is built on trust, and we are committed to transparency and ensuring patients understand their care and costs. Informed financial consent is a vital part of this process." Dr Sinclair said.
Anaesthesia fees are structured on a nationally consistent basis, taking into account a base rate, the complexity of the procedure, and its duration. However, the rebates paid by Medicare and private health insurers have not kept pace with rising healthcare costs.
"The gaps patients face are not the result of overcharging by anaesthetists - they exist because rebates from Medicare and private health insurers have failed to keep pace with the cost of delivering care," Dr Sinclair explained.
"We are asking funders - both Government and insurers - to at least index their rebates properly. Without indexation, the shortfall will only grow, placing an unfair burden on patients."
The ASA continues to advocate for reforms that ensure ethical and fair charging practices by anaesthetists protect patients from an unnecessary financial burden.
About us:
With a community of over 4,000 members across Australia, the Australian Society of Anaesthetists (ASA) is a member-funded organisation dedicated to supporting, representing and educating anaesthetists to ensure the safest possible anaesthesia for the community.
Established in 1934, we have been proudly been supporting anaesthetists for 90 years.
