The Medicare Services campaign aims to increase awareness and understanding of 1800MEDICARE, expanded bulk billing arrangements and Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs), helping Australians access the right care when they need it.
1800MEDICARE
1800MEDICARE is a free, 24/7 service where you can speak to a registered nurse about any non-emergency health concern.
You can access 1800MEDICARE by calling 1800 633 422 or through the website or the app. The service provides trusted health advice and can help connect you to the right care.
1800MEDICARE is available to everyone, anywhere in Australia. You don't need a Medicare card to use the service.
Bulk Billing
More general practices offer bulk billing following changes to bulk billing incentives and the introduction of the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program.
This means Medicare-eligible patients are more likely to be able to access bulk billed GP care, helping reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Around 97% of Australians now live within a 20-minute drive of a bulk billing practice.
Medicare Urgent Care Clinics
UCCs provide bulk billed care for urgent but non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, particularly when you can't wait for an appointment with your usual GP.
There are 137 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across Australia, making it easier for Australians to access affordable care and helping reduce pressure on emergency departments. Clinics are open extended hours, 7 days a week, and you don't need an appointment or referral.
Since the first clinics opened, 4 million presentations have been made to a UCC, with around 4 in 5 Australians now living within a 20-minute drive of a clinic.
The Medicare Services campaign will run nationally across television, social media, digital, print, out-of-home and search channels. Tailored campaign materials will also support First Nations peoples and multicultural communities.
