Govt spending $25 million to set up new GP practices in region with ‘cultural’ resistance to bulk-billing
The Federal Government is funding six new bulk-billing clinics at a cost of $25 million.
A “cultural issue” at GP practices has held back bulk-billing in the region where the government will fund six new clinics, Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler says.
Mr Butler said the Federal Government had no choice but to intervene in NSW’s Central Coast and Hunter districts because local GPs had resisted bulk-billing for “no rational reason”.
This month’s federal budget committed $25 million to fund the new bulk-billing practices, scheduled to open in 2027.
“This is one of the worst markets in the country, and I’ve said I’m committed to making sure that people enjoy the benefits of our huge investments in bulk-billing right across thentry,” Mr Butler told ABC Newcastle on Wednesday.
