dr barker-whittle's FEES
Fees for anaesthesia are dependent on the complexity and duration of the procedure. They will also vary with other factors, some of these include - age, physical status, emergency status and in or after hours timing. As your anaesthetic fee will vary depending on how long your operation takes, it is not generally possible to give a definite cost prior to your anaesthetic.
An based on the anticipated time for your anaesthesia service can be obtained by contacting my office or by completing the online form. You are encouraged to make contact well before your procedure.
The estimate indicates the likely costs you will pay for anaesthesia services associated with your operation or procedure. Please note that it is an estimate only and additional charges result from unforeseen circumstances or longer than predicated operation time. It refers specifically to the fees charged by my practice. It does not cover services provided by other doctors (e.g. surgeon) or other costs associated with your stay in hospital (e.g. accommodation, pharmacy, physiotherapy, pathology or X-ray).
The fee for anaesthetic services may not be covered in full by the rebate paid by Medicare and your health fund, and any difference will become your responsibility to pay. Many health funds offer a product called “Known Gap” which can reduce this difference. (Please note - NIB does not offer this product). Talk to your health fund to see whether this is on offer as each fund has different rules around how this product can be applied. If you are in a difficult financial position, it is important to contact us and discuss this, as we may be able to offer some consideration appropriate for your circumstance.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) and Australian Society of Anaesthetists (ASA) prepare a list of medical services and fees for private patient anaesthesia services. The ASA have prepared an information sheet on billing which can be found or on their . Unfortunately the Medicare rebate for these services has not been maintained and now only represents approximately 28% of the AMA fee.