Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has warned the health crisis will get worse with the bulk billing slump and patients’ tax pricing out GP visits.
Mr Bennett said his worst fears came true following the release of new data that revealed the out-of-pocket cost for a standard consultation across the Burnett now ranges between $41 and $48.
“For years I warned that the pending changes will diminish people’s access to finding a bulk billing doctor,” said Mr Bennett.
“Our local Labor member dismissed the issue and stood alongside the federal and state health minister’s while they pushed forward with plans to limit access to basic healthcare.
“This new data from Cleanbill has confirmed Bundaberg and Burnett residents are paying more to visit their GP and it’s only going to get worse.
“Queensland’s sick state of health will not get better under State and Federal Labor.
“I have serious fears that people will start avoiding crucial check-ups and potentially miss out on lifesaving treatment.
“In the Flynn Electorate, less than a quarter of GP’s provide bulk billing, while in Hinkler it’s less than 20 per cent.”
Mr Bennett said attracting and retaining GPs in regional areas needs to be a state government priority.
“Frustratingly, this government is only making a career as a GP less attractive by rolling out their Patients’ Tax,” he said.
“By imposing a new payroll tax on the work of GPs, Premier Miles will make some marginal medical practices, particularly in regional and rural areas, cross the threshold into becoming non-viable businesses.
“Taxing GPs to the point that they exit the regions will result in more pressure on already-overwhelmed emergency departments.
“The Queensland Health Crisis will only get worse the longer Labor is in power.
“Queenslanders deserve better.”
ENDS.
28/02/2024