Are pathology and blood tests bulk-billed?‍

Many clinics bulk-bill these tests, meaning there is no cost if you have Medicare. It is a good idea to call the pathology clinic first to ask about their fees and bulk billing options, as whilst we can request bulk billing* for you, billing decisions ultimately remain with the clinic in question.

When can the tests be bulk billed?

• MBS-Covered Tests: Most routine blood tests, like a full blood count or lipid profile, are bulk-billed if they’re on the MBS.
• Concessional Patients: Patients with Pensioner Health Care Cards or Commonwealth Seniors Cards are often bulk-billed for routine tests.

When might you have to pay?

• Non-MBS Tests: If a doctor requests a test not covered by Medicare, you’ll pay.
• Specialised/Complex Tests: Certain complex or advanced tests might have out-of-pocket costs.
• Overseas Visitors: Patients without Medicare eligibility usually pay the full cost.

How to check

• Ask the consulting doctor: Your GP should tell you if there might be costs.
• Call the Lab: Contact the pathology collection centre directly with your request form to ask about potential fees. 

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