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What are bulk-billed eye tests?

Zoom Local News > Health > What are bulk-billed eye tests?

What are bulk-billed eye tests?

You’ve probably heard the term “bulk billed” before and wondered what it means. It alludes to the fact that you don’t have to pay for your appointment, but this only applies if you meet the criteria of being eligible for a rebate from Medicare or a health fund. If you think that sounds too good to be true, read on.

A bulk billed eye test service means that you won’t have to pay for the cost of your visit. Instead, Medicare will cover the cost. Suppose you are eligible for Medicare and have a valid concession card (Commonwealth Seniors Health Card) or Reciprocal Health Care Agreement Card. In that case, you can receive a free eye exam during which your doctor will examine all aspects of your vision. That includes:

  • refraction (measuring refractive error in each eye)
  • ocular health assessment (checking for glaucoma, cataracts, dry eyes etc.)
  • visual fields (testing peripheral vision)

Who can get a bulk billed eye test?

To receive a bulk billed eye test, you must be an Australian resident over the age of 16 years who do not have health insurance and does not hold a Medicare card or private health insurance.

There are a few options if you’re looking for a bulk billed eye test. You can have one at your local doctor’s surgery, hospital or optometrist’s clinic. The best way to find out if your nearest healthcare provider offers these services is to call them directly and ask!

How to find the right glasses frames

Choosing the right frame can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Some easy ways ensure you get exactly what you’re looking for.

  • Choose frames that match your face shape.
  • Look at the size of a variety of frames and try them on before buying them online or in-store so that you can find out whether they fit well around your face, nose and ears.
  • You’ll also want to make sure that your chosen glasses suit all the different occasions where you may need to wear them, such as driving or working in front of a computer screen all day long!

If you need them, what are your options for contact lenses after the appointment?

If you want to save money and get your eyes tested, contact lenses are a great option. They’re more expensive than regular glasses, but they can be more convenient and comfortable.

Contact lenses are also an option if you have vision issues that don’t allow you to wear glasses comfortably or at all. You may have vision issues such as dry eyes or astigmatism, which can make wearing contact lenses easier than dealing with glasses. If this is the case, getting a proper diagnosis from an optometrist before getting fitted for contacts is essential!

You may not have to pay anything for an eye exam.

If you have Medicare, a health care card or both and have an eye test at the practice that’s not bulk billed, you may still be able to claim a rebate from Medicare.

If you don’t need glasses or contact lenses after the eye test, your rebate can be used towards any other eligible medical expenses (such as dentist fees) in the next eight weeks.

You’ll need to pay for glasses and contact lenses if:

  • You don’t have insurance coverage for this item.
  • Your insurance provider doesn’t include them in their benefits package.

As you can see, there are many different types of eye tests. The most important thing to remember is that if you have any concerns about your vision health or need new glasses, it’s worth it to get an eye test as soon as possible. 

Author name- Grace

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