Can I claim a private health insurance rebate?

Private health insurance does not cover specialist medical services provided outside a hospital where those services are eligible for Medicare benefits.

This includes consultations with a dermatologist in their consulting rooms.

Yes, where the service is eligible for Medicare benefits and you meet the applicable Medicare requirements.

For specialist consultations, this generally includes having a valid referral for the condition or course of treatment being assessed.

Your Medicare rebate is separate from any private health insurance you may hold.

Private health insurance may provide cover for:

• treatment received as a private patient in hospital;

• hospital accommodation and theatre costs, depending on your policy; and

• some non-Medicare services provided under extras or general treatment cover.

The level of cover varies between policies.

If you are unsure whether a particular service may be covered, please check directly with your private health insurer before your appointment or treatment.