Specialist Fees, Bill Shock, and the Future of Healthcare in Australia

Why are specialist medical fees rising faster than inflation, and what does it mean for Australians’ wallets? In this episode, we talk with Peter Breadon, Health Program Director at the Grattan Institute, about the debate over transparency, Medicare rebates, and the real cost of care. We explore: Why “bill shock” still affects patients despite new fee-comparison tools. How rising gap fees impact rural and low-income communities. Whether publishing prices really makes healthcare more affordable—or could backfire. Lessons from other countries on regulating specialist fees. Is transparency enough, or do we need deeper reform to keep specialist care accessible for everyone? Join us and hear the expert view.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.