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 the tests could 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.
Talk to a GP now: Blood test referrals online
