Peaceful Panda Psychology
Medicare
The most cost-effective way to see a Psychologist is to be referred by a GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician. Your referring Doctor will be able to assess your eligibility to be referred under a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). However, your Doctor may choose to refer you to see a Psychologist under a different Medicare initiative if this is more appropriate. This may mean the number of sessions and/or the amount Medicare can cover per session may be different. For more information, please click here.
Under an MHCP, Medicare can cover $96.65 per 50 minute session.
From 1 January 2023, the maximum number of sessions you can access on a MHCP (per calendar year) is 10 sessions. Your Doctor may initially refer you for 6 sessions, then provide an additional 4 sessions upon Review of the MHCP.
At Peaceful Panda Psychology, sessions under an MHCP are bulk-billed. This means, there are no out-of-pocket costs for you!
If you would like more information or help with obtaining a referral, please contact Irene (I am more than happy to help!)
You can also phone Medicare on 132 011 or visit www.health.gov.au.
Self-Referral or Non-Medicare
You do not need a referral from a Doctor to see a Psychologist.
If you have Private Health Insurance, most Private Health Funds provide a rebate for Psychologist sessions. Please check with your Private Health Fund the extent of your cover.