Australian Medicare and Health Insurance Worksheet

What is the main goal of the Medicare system in Australia?

• To replace all private hospitals

• To provide free access to any specialist without referral

• To ensure all Australians have access to affordable basic healthcare

• To increase the cost of the expenses for elective surgeries

Answer explanation

The main goal of the Medicare system in Australia is to ensure all Australians have access to affordable basic healthcare, making it a fundamental part of the country's health policy.

How is the Medicare system primarily funded?

• Donations from private companies

• A compulsory levy on most Australian taxpayers

• Health insurance premiums

• Monthly payments from patients

Answer explanation

The Medicare system in Australia is primarily funded through a compulsory levy on most taxpayers, ensuring that healthcare services are accessible to all citizens without direct payments at the point of care.

What is meant by 'the gap' in Medicare?

• The age gap in healthcare needs

• The gap between GP and specialist services

• The difference between the Medicare rebate and the actual fee charged by the doctor

• The amount paid for private insurance

Answer explanation

'The gap' in Medicare refers to the difference between the Medicare rebate and the actual fee charged by the doctor, which can result in out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

What does the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) aim to do?

• Eliminate prescription drug use

• Make essential medicines more affordable for Australians

• Limit the number of pharmacies in Australia

• Provide only over-the-counter medications

Answer explanation

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) aims to make essential medicines more affordable for Australians, ensuring access to necessary medications rather than eliminating their use or limiting pharmacies.

What is the role of Private Health Insurance in Australia?

• It replaces Medicare

• It covers all medical costs automatically

• It offers additional health services and choice of provider not fully covered by Medicare

• It is only available to Australians over the age of 40

Answer explanation

Private Health Insurance in Australia provides additional health services and greater choice of providers that are not fully covered by Medicare, enhancing the overall healthcare options for individuals.

What is the 'Lifetime Health Cover Loading'?

• A discount given to teenagers for buying health insurance early

• A penalty for anyone who uses Medicare services too often

• An additional cost added if you take out private insurance after age 31

Answer explanation

Lifetime Health Cover Loading is an additional cost imposed on individuals who take out private health insurance after the age of 31, encouraging early enrollment to maintain lower premiums.

Which of the following would NOT typically be covered by Medicare?

• GP consultations

• X-rays in a public hospital

• Cosmetic surgery for non-medical reasons

• Pathology tests for diagnosis

Answer explanation

Medicare typically covers necessary medical services. Cosmetic surgery for non-medical reasons is considered elective and not medically necessary, hence it is not covered by Medicare.

At what age can a person apply for their own Medicare card in Australia?

• 12

• 15

• 18

• 21

Answer explanation

In Australia, a person can apply for their own Medicare card at the age of 15. This allows them to access healthcare services independently.

Which group might not have access to Medicare in Australia?

• Australian citizens

• New Zealand residents living in Australia

• International students who are studying in Australian Secondary Schools.

• Asylum seekers who are on temporary protection visas.

Answer explanation

Asylum seekers on temporary protection visas do not have access to Medicare in Australia, unlike Australian citizens, New Zealand residents, and international students who may have coverage.

Which government department is responsible for managing federal health policy in Australia?

• Department of Foreign Affairs

• Department of Health and Aged Care

• Department of Education

• Victorian Department of Health

Answer explanation

The Department of Health and Aged Care is the Australian government department responsible for managing federal health policy, overseeing health services and aged care programs.