Medicare Rebates

On 1 November 2006, the Australian Government introduced new Medicare items for psychological treatment by registered psychologists. This service provides considerable assistance to people living with mental health problems, allowing them greater access to psychologists and providing more affordable mental healthcare.

Under the new Medicare scheme, all registered psychologists who are endorsed by Medicare Australia can provide treatment for mental health problems (ALL psychologists at Cairnmillar are registered).

Medicare rebates are also available for consultations with specialist clinical psychologists, who are experts in the assessment and treatment of mental disorders.

Cairnmillar does not charge the full Australian Psychological Society recommended fees, therefore Medicare can rebate up to 75% of Cairnmillar's own counselling fees.

To claim the Medicare Rebate you will need a referral from your GP to see a psychologist.  

To obtain a referral you will need to make an appointment with your GP to discuss the issues you have been facing. Your GP will then raise a Mental Health Care plan with Medicare.  At that point you will be eligible for up to 12 psychology sessions per calendar year under the Care plan.

To download the Government fact sheet click here

For further information telephone Cairnmillar on (03) 9813 3400

Health Funds

If you belong to a private health fund, you may be able to claim a rebate for psychological services. The exact amount of the rebate will depend upon your level of cover, and the rebate varies between health funds. It is best to check with your fund for an exact per session rebate figure.