Telehealth fees and Medicare
The standard cost of a 50 minute telehealth (videoconferencing or telephone) session is $195
If you are eligible to receive a Medicare rebate you will be reimbursed from Medicare a minimum of $96.65 (more if you have exceeded the annual Medicare safety net threshold)
To be eligible for a Medicare rebate you will need to have a referral from a GP or a psychiatrist who has completed a Mental Health Care Plan with you. If you are making an appointment with your GP in order to receive a referral for counselling, let them know that you are seeking a Mental Health Care Plan when you book your appointment so that extra time can be allocated for the appointment.
People with a Mental Health Care Plan are currently permitted by Medicare to claim a Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
For more information about Medicare please visit the Australian Psychological Society (APS)
Bulk billing and rebates
Medicare bulk-billing may be available to those eligible, such as Health Care Card holders and low income earners with a current Mental Health Care Plan. Please discuss this when enquiring about an appointment.
Rebates are also available from some private health insurers. The rebate amount varies between Health Insurance companies and different policies. Please check with your Insurance to determine if they offer rebates for Allied Health and/or Psychological services.