Having a look at this (https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/480216) and never used my medicare except for sick leaves, Ive been wondering if I am missing out on something I should be doing.
Annual health checks
Are these covered by medicare? How much do I have to pay if I go the bulk billed route? Should I get a private insurance for this?
Interested in blood profile and other stuff the link promoted, but now its been edited by the OP.
"Annual Checkups" are for cars and teeth.
An annual "health" checkup will definitely show some form of concern. If it doesn't, that's a major concern.
I should clarify, I am not referring to the well established screenings, I am referring to the one being advertised where people spend X amount of time with GP, nurse et al to talk about things not quite right but doesn't warrant a consult yet be brought up at an annual health check.
If you have a problem, see a doctor. If you don't have a problem, follow the recommended checks for things you're at risk of, ie. Bowel screening every X number of years.
There is also the cost of false positives and the referrals to specialists that can be a nightmare. I've read of doctors/specialists whose parents have been exposed to these situations highlight the major costs vs potential benefit.
Agreed.
These forms of service has not shown any increase in life expectancy or improved quality of life.
Again, just do the recommended screening and be aware of symptoms that may require attention.
Maybe this (advertisement for service) is done with good intentions, ie. To dumb down medicine to compete with homeopathy. Regardless, it is a step backwards. Medicine needs to be factual and evidence based. The general population is free to seek bad advice to suit their comfort levels but that's just too bad for them.
Go hop on a Sisu health station at most pricelines, you'll get a decent overview as to whether or not you are healthy before forking out the money. I dunno whether or not this is specifically what you are after but this is a good start… and its free.
That "deal" is so wrong in many ways.
Every GP is different and some will charge for an "annual checkup" while others may bulk bill so it depends if you feel it's worth getting checked out. agent0 explained it well.
It's not something private health would cover either.