That's a good idea n2l. Lots of IM's work on the basis that they will reduce their fees on a means tested basis and it would certainly negate any hospital bills.
I would start with vinnies, if they are catholic. It's an amazing organisation who are known for pulling out all the stops and helping families in need.
When my BIL came from Italy for a holiday he got sick and we were able to get a Medicare Card for him but it may depend on what sort of Visa they have.
Her Uncle is a catholic Parish priest, here in SA. It hasn't been outwardly said, by the family, but from the small circle 'in the know', it seems as there is a bit of an embarrassment and they don't want to go through the Church / catholic community. I feel they don't want to add to any possible embarrassment to possibly damage his reputation. I guess they could just contact a Vinnies or Salvo's and not mention their relation to a parish priest? Being Catholic myself part of me understands why they don't want to use their religion e.g., ask the church etc for help, and part of me is a bit, I don't know, angry because, I don't know, the generalisation society is indirectly placing on the young mum to be makes the family feel like they can't turn to anyone for help, if that makes sense.
PZ - thanks hun, that is sweet, I do have a stack of boy and baby girl clothing good to go, just waiting to find out bubs gender and I'll be handing it all over. I also have small baby blankets, wraps etc that DD2 will be grown out of in the next few months too.
N2L - I did actually wonder that myself regarding IM's and I have suggested home birth as an option.
As everything is being relayed, people seem to think I'm best suited to speak to the girl, considering I'm youngish lol, with kids too. I don't know if I'm that well equipped. I've never been in her shoes, I can only imagine what it'd be like, which is nowhere near the same thing. I do have social skills due to my occupation which can be useful, but I'm feeling out of my depth here...
Off to google now. Thanks gorgeous ladies for pointing me towards some great places that may be able to help the mum to be. I really appreciate it
also worth noting that while her visa may mean the mama is ineligible for support from Medicare and/or Centre link, once the baby is born the baby might be eligible for Centre link payments/concession card and/or medicare due to being born in Australia - she could make an appointment with a Centre link Social Worker to discuss her options. HTH x
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