Ultrasound and medicare-need advice please

[Erin_25]

Perhaps just ask the doctor, yes they are exp...my first was $195 & I think I got back $80 of it. I then found out our local hosp does scans once a month along with all other care & I had to tsf my care there after 20wks anyway. So the doc gave me the referals to go there & i have not pd a cent since!!!!! last week I got the 3D scan for nothing!!! I am a public patient & it is the hosp I will deliver at. So perhaps choose a hosp & find out from them.

[Nimra]

Thankyou ladies for replying me and giving me such a wonderful information.I have contacted several places and found Balaclava Radiology's first ultrasound is bulk billed and rest are 115$. A lot reasonable then the place my GP asked for.

I went yesterday to Balaclava for ultrasound and found them quite nice too.

Now my GP is forcing me to must go to Only "womens ultrasound Malvern" for my 12th week ultrasound.Again its v expensive 220$ The same ultrasound Gribbles are doing at the cost of 150$ and balaclava for 115$.

I don't understand why my GP is forcing for that particular place? Shall I go where I want to go for ultrasound? But Iam afraid it will make my GP upset.
I have to make decision because after two weeks I will got for my 10th week blood test
which will be directed to the place where ultrasound going to be conduct.

Thanks
Nim

[LionsandBears]

A GP can't force you to do anything you don't want. If you don't agree with them and they make an issue of it, get another GP.

I do know Womens ultrasound Malvern has some very experienced doctors attached, so that may be why they're more expensive. Their equipment may be better too. I don't know - ask your GP why he/she is insisting. $100 is a big difference, especially given the medicare rebate is the same, no matter who you go with.

On a separate note, re: upsetting the GP. Remember they are a care provider, ie, suppliers. You are the customer. It is their job to SERVE you to the best of their ability. If you don't get along, it may be better to find another doctor. Just as, if they think they're offering advice you're ignoring, they can choose not to serve you. However, they should give a reasonable explanation, not just throw their weight around. There's plenty more GP's out there, after all. Sorry for getting on my high horse, but the whole "do what I say cos I'm a doctor" mentality really does my head in If you feel bullied or patronised, find someone else.