Skilled Migrant Professionals October 2014 | Page 42
Lifestyle
W
hether you’re starting life
in Australia on a temporary or permanent basis, you’re no doubt
going through a process of adjustment. It’s hard enough getting used to phrases like ‘fair dinkum’,
and a new currency, let alone coping with
the demands of your new life and navigating a foreign health system!
So here is some practical information for
people who are new to Australia — to help you
find out more about the Australian health system,
how it works, where to get medical advice, and where to
find more information.
Making the most of Medicare
Medicare is Australia’s version of a ‘universal’ health care scheme. It
provides free or lower-cost medical and public hospital services for
all Australian citizens and eligible permanent residents.
You may also be eligible for Medicare if you live in Australia and you:
Make
Audra Millis, BUPA
Head of Health and
Care Solutions
• are a New Zealand citizen
• have applied for an Australian permanent
resident visa
• are visiting Australia and you come from a country that has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with
Australia.
Other requirements may also apply. To find out if you are eligible,
or to apply for Medicare, contact Medicare. (See ‘Find more information’ opposite).
What services does Medicare cover?
If you are eligible for Medicare, you can claim benefits and payments for healthcare services including:
• doctor and specialist consultation fees
at home
yourself
are system
lia’s healthc
with Austra
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www.smpmagazine.com.au | October 2014