Simplified billing

This requires a cooperative effort between Medicare Australia, private health funds and billing agents (usually a hospital or day surgery centre). By working together, these organisations can streamline the way patients pay their bills and claim benefits from Medicare and their private health fund, leaving them free to concentrate on recuperating.

Medicare Australia is required under legislation to consider applications for registration as a simplified billing agent and is also responsible for auditing them.

Individuals or companies wishing to establish a billing agency need to contact Medicare Australia for an application kit on 02 6124 2099 or email simplified.billing@medicareaustralia.gov.au

Application for late lodgment of a simplified billing claim for assigned Medicare benefits

From 1 April 2007 you will need to complete a late lodgment form for all simplified billing claims lodged over 2 years after the date of service. This is in line with subsection 20B(2)(b) of the Health Insurance Act 1973. This form can be submitted to Medicare Australia through a nominated health fund or billing agent on your behalf.

Circular for simplified billing agents

The monthly circular provides an up-to-date list of approved billing agents. It highlights the billing agents whose registration status has changed and those who were newly approved to become a simplified billing agent.

This month's circular and a list of current billing agents are attached below.