Bulk Billing for Prescriptions: What’s Covered and What’s Not?

When we hear the term bulk billing, it often sounds like everything is free — the doctor’s appointment, the medication, the follow-up. But when it comes to prescriptions in Australia, many people are surprised to find that bulk billing doesn’t always mean no out-of-pocket cost — especially when it comes to picking up your meds.

So, what exactly is covered under bulk billing for prescriptions, and where might you still end up paying?

Let’s break it down.

What Does Bulk Billing Actually Cover?

Bulk billing means that your doctor bills Medicare directly for your consult, so you pay nothing out of pocket. This applies to both in-person GP visits and eligible telehealth consults.

✅ Covered under bulk billing:

  • The consultation itself (if the doctor offers bulk billing)
  • Writing your prescription during that consult
  • Sending an eScript (electronic prescription) to your phone or email

❌ Not covered under bulk billing:

  • The actual cost of the medication from the pharmacy
  • Any delivery fees if you use an online pharmacy
  • Some non-Medicare-rebated prescriptions (like for cosmetic treatments or some off-label meds)

Does Medicare Cover the Cost of Medications?

No — not directly through bulk billing. Instead, Medicare subsidises many medications through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

If your prescribed medicine is on the PBS list, you’ll only pay a reduced co-payment,

However, if your medication isn’t on the PBS, you’ll need to pay the full private price — even if your consult was fully bulk billed.

Can You Get Bulk Billed Prescriptions Through Online Doctors?

Yes — many online doctor services in Australia now offer bulk billed telehealth consults, including platforms like Hola Health. These services allow you to:

  • Speak to a licensed doctor via phone or video
  • Get instant scripts for eligible conditions (like UTIs, the contraceptive pill, antidepressants, etc.)
  • Receive the prescription via eScript, which can be filled at your local or online pharmacy

But again, the medication cost depends on whether it’s PBS-listed and whether you're using a concession card.

Are There Free Medications in Australia?

Some patients may receive medications at no cost — particularly those with:

  • A Healthcare or Pensioner Concession Card
  • Eligibility for Closing the Gap programs
  • Access to bulk billing clinics that also partner with pharmacies offering zero-gap pricing for certain medications

However, this varies clinic to clinic and pharmacy to pharmacy — and most prescriptions will involve some cost.

What About Repeat Prescriptions?

Need a repeat prescription for a regular medication?

Some online prescription services allow bulk billed repeat scripts through a telehealth appointment, especially if you’ve already spoken to a doctor about the condition. However, other platforms may charge a small fee for script-only requests, especially outside standard consult hours or if you're not eligible for Medicare.

Quick Tips to Save on Prescriptions

  • Ask your doctor if the prescribed med is on the PBS list
  • Use your concession card to lower co-payments
  • Compare online pharmacies for the best price and delivery options
  • Consider telehealth providers like Hola Health that offer bulk billing with no hidden fees

Final Thoughts

Bulk billing is a great way to access affordable healthcare, especially through online doctor consultations. But when it comes to prescriptions, it’s important to know that bulk billing covers the consult — not the medication itself.

Understanding how online prescriptions, the PBS, and bulk billing work together can help you avoid surprise costs and find the most affordable path for your healthcare.

If you're looking for a bulk billed telehealth service in Australia that offers convenient, fast, and affordable access to prescriptions, consider platforms like Hola Health — where eligible patients can speak with a doctor, get an eScript, and be on their way in minutes.

 

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