Fee Structure
Understanding Our Fee Structure
Before outlining our fees, it’s important to understand how medical fees are determined in Australia.
Medicare Benefits Scheme
The Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS), introduced in 1985, sets a schedule of fees for medical procedures and consultations. Each procedure is assigned an item number, which determines:
- The schedule fee (the government’s recommended fee)
- The Medicare rebate (the amount you can claim)
Medicare rebates are:
- 75% of the schedule fee for in-hospital services (e.g., operations)
- 85% of the schedule fee for out-of-hospital services (e.g., consultations)
Over time, these rebates have not kept pace with inflation, which means there is often a gap payment between the rebate and the actual cost of care.
Informed Financial Consent
If surgery is recommended during your consultation, A/Prof Hazratwala will provide informed financial consent, explaining:
- Surgical fee
- Assistant surgeon fee
- Anaesthetic fee
You will receive a comprehensive written quote.
Please note: This quote does not include hospital excess, radiology, or pathology fees, as these depend on your level of private health insurance.
Other Billing Arrangements
- WorkCover and DVA patients: Separate fee schedules apply, and billing is usually handled directly with the relevant organization.
Bottom line: We are committed to transparency. You will know all expected out-of-pocket costs before proceeding with surgery.
Consultation Costs
First Consultation:
Your Initial Consultation
At your first visit with A/Prof Hazratwala, a long consultation fee will apply. This is because extra time is needed to:
- Review your medical history in detail
- Assess your condition thoroughly
- Discuss treatment options and next steps
You will receive a Medicare rebate for part of this fee.
Please note: Private health funds do not cover consultations outside a hospital setting (known as outpatient treatment).
Subsequent Consultation:
Your Follow-Up Consultation
A lower fee applies for follow-up visits. These appointments typically require less time, as A/Prof Hazratwala is already familiar with your medical history and condition. This allows the focus to be on reviewing your progress, discussing results, and planning next steps.
Post Operative Consultation:
Post-Operative Consultations
A/Prof Hazratwala does not charge for up to six post-operative consultations. These visits are included as part of your initial surgical fee, ensuring you receive comprehensive follow-up care without additional cost.
If you require further surgery during the immediate post-operative phase, there will be no extra out-of-pocket expenses—this is also covered under your original operative fee.
Payment of Fees
Payment Information
Our team will provide a clear outline of costs when you book your appointment.
Full payment is required at the time of your consultation, and we accept:
- Cash
- EFTPOS
- Most major credit cards (excluding American Express and Diners Club)
For your convenience, we can submit your Medicare rebate claim directly at the time of your visit.
WorkCover Patients
If you are covered by WorkCover, please bring your claim number to your appointment. This allows us to process your claim on your behalf.
If you do not provide this information, you will be responsible for payment at the time of your consultation.
Extra Costs
Additional Procedure Costs
If a procedure is performed during your consultation—such as a joint injection—an additional fee will apply. You will receive a detailed invoice and receipt, which you can use to claim your Medicare rebate.
Summary
Understanding Surgical Costs
Estimating the cost of surgical procedures can seem complex, but our team is here to help you navigate the private health care framework. It is essential that you are fully informed about your financial commitment before proceeding with surgery.
If you have any questions or concerns about costs, please contact us at any time—we’re happy to assist.
We also recommend speaking directly with your health fund and Medicare to confirm the exact rebate you will receive on the fees charged.