Medicare and telehealth can be confusing to untangle. Some telehealth services attract rebates, others don't, and the rules depend on the type of service and your relationship with the provider. Here's a plain-English overview to help you understand the landscape.
Key takeaways
Medicare telehealth rebates were expanded significantly and many are now permanent
Rebates generally apply to eligible services from your regular GP or a referred specialist
Many alternative telehealth clinics operate privately, with transparent upfront fees instead of rebates
Always check the fee structure before booking any telehealth appointment
What Medicare generally covers
Medicare provides rebates for a range of telehealth services delivered by GPs, specialists, and some allied health professionals. For GP telehealth items, rules generally link rebates to a practice you've visited in person, with some exceptions.
Because item rules change over time, the most reliable sources are Services Australia and the Department of Health, or simply asking the clinic before you book.
GOOD TO KNOW
Clinics are required to be clear about their fees. If you're unsure whether a rebate applies, ask before your appointment so there are no surprises.
How private telehealth clinics work
Alternative telehealth clinics like Hellomello operate on a private-fee model. Instead of Medicare rebates, you pay a transparent consultation fee upfront, with no referral needed and no hidden costs.
This model trades the rebate for directness: you can access an AHPRA-registered clinician quickly, from anywhere in Australia, with follow-up consults available from $29.
Ready to check your eligibility?
It takes 2 minutes and there's no commitment involved. If you're not eligible, you won't be charged.
Questions to ask about costs
Before booking any telehealth service, it's worth confirming:
Is this service eligible for a Medicare rebate, and how much will I get back?
What is the full upfront fee for initial and follow-up consultations?
Are there any additional costs for prescriptions, delivery, or care plans?
What happens to the fee if I'm found not eligible for treatment?
Check your eligibility in 2 minutes.
No GP referral needed. AHPRA-registered doctors. 100% online, Australia-wide.
Hellomello operates on a private-fee model with transparent upfront pricing, so Medicare rebates don't apply. Follow-up consults are available from $29.
What happens if I'm not eligible after my consultation?
You'll receive a full refund and our team will suggest alternative options that might suit your needs.
Where can I check current Medicare telehealth rules?
Services Australia and the Australian Government Department of Health publish up-to-date information on Medicare telehealth items and eligibility.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Everyone's circumstances are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Please consult an AHPRA-registered healthcare professional for advice specific to your circumstances.
References
1.Services Australia. (2024). Medicare and telehealth. servicesaustralia.gov.au
2.Australian Government Department of Health. (2024). Telehealth services. health.gov.au/topics/telehealth
