Fees, Referrals and Medicare: What to Know Before Booking

Do I need a referral?

You can generally contact a private psychologist without a GP referral if you plan to pay privately. A valid referral is required if you want to claim eligible Medicare benefits under the Australian Government’s Better Access initiative. Referral pathways and item requirements can change, so the website should direct clients to confirm current eligibility with their referring doctor, Services Australia and the relevant clinic reception.

Mental Health Treatment Plans and Medicare

Under current Better Access arrangements, eligible people with a Mental Health Treatment Plan can claim Medicare benefits for up to 10 individual and 10 group mental health treatment services per calendar year. Referrals are issued in courses of treatment and may require review before further sessions are referred. Medicare may cover only part of a psychologist’s fee, leaving a gap payment.

Fees should be confirmed by location

Because Dr Lutchman consults from several independent medical centres, booking and payment arrangements may differ by location. Rather than publishing an inaccurate universal fee, the website should state the standard consultation fee only after it is confirmed for each clinic and should provide the relevant reception number for current pricing, cancellation policy and rebate processing.

Private health insurance and other funding

Some private health policies may provide psychology extras benefits. Coverage and annual limits vary, so clients should check directly with their insurer. For workers compensation, third-party, medico-legal or other funded referrals, written approval and billing arrangements may be required before an appointment is accepted.

Cancellation policy

Each clinic should clearly communicate cancellation and non-attendance rules at the time of booking. The Rouse Hill practitioner profile currently notes a 24-hour cancellation requirement and an $80 non-attendance fee; before publishing a sitewide policy, confirm whether the same rule applies at all locations.