NSW: Greens to try to restore Medicare's universality

AAP General News (Australia)
12-17-2003
NSW: Greens to try to restore Medicare's universality

The Australian Greens will move to overturn federal government regulations they say
will turn Medicare into a two-tier system.

Just before federal parliament rose for the year, the government introduced an additional
$5 rebate for doctors -- but only if they bulk-bill concession card holders.

Greens health spokeswoman KERRY NETTLE says the government's decision is a betrayal
because it encourages doctors to bulk bill some groups rather than all Australians.

The Greens would move an amendment to ensure GPs receive the extra $5 rebate for bulk-billing
all patients.

Senator NETTLE says low income families, people with chronic illnesses, and a whole
raft of individuals will miss out under the government's scheme.

She says she will move a disallowance motion when parliament resumes in February.

AAP RTV jph/s/rd/rp T

KEYWORD: MEDICARE (SYDNEY)

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