Posted by Michael Wonder on 04 Apr 2018
Patients grappling with $10,000 out-of-pocket medical bills, survey reveals
5 April 2018 - For 30 years, Tracey Barnett and her husband Jim have paid thousands of dollars each year for top-level health cover to ensure complete peace of mind in times of need.
Three years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and while she's grateful for fast access to treatments, "awesome" medical staff and private rooms, Ms Barnett is shocked the out-of-pocket expenses have added up to $14,000. She had to dip into her superannuation.
"For example, the breast surgeon wanted me to immediately have pre-op tests so I paid $3000 upfront with the intention of claiming it back. We were later advised the tests weren't covered because I wasn't in hospital," Ms Barnett, 58 from Gippsland, Victoria, said.
