Medicare

Medicare only covers telehealth services when both you and the clinician are physically in Australia at the time of the consultation.

For some types of telehealth appointments, Medicare requires that you have:
had a face-to-face appointment at Calen Health or with a doctor who works at Calen Health in the past 12 months.

From November 1st 2025 to November 1st 2026, the above rule has been waived.
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Medicare allows telehealth rebates for certain patients even if you have not seen us face-to-face before.These include (but are not limited to):
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- Babies under 12 months of age
- People experiencing homelessness
- People in isolation or quarantine
- People affected by natural disasters
- Urgent after-hours care
- Sexual or reproductive health consultations
- Pregnancy counselling
- Blood-borne virus care
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients receiving care through eligible Aboriginal health services.

If any of these apply, please let us know when booking.

Telehealth is great for many situations, but sometimes an in-person visit is safer or more effective, especially when a physical examination is required.

If telehealth isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll help you arrange an in-person appointment instead.

Because Medicare rules are complex and rebates depend on your personal situation, we may not be able to confirm your eligibility until your clinician has assessed you during the consultation.

We will always do our best to inform you beforehand, but we cannot guarantee Medicare for telehealth or in-person appointments. It is your responsibility to double check if you will receive a Medicare rebate.

To avoid unexpected fees: Please make sure your Medicare details are up to date. If we are your nominated primary health care provider, register with Calen Health in MyMedicare for broader Medicare rebate eligibility.

Let us know if you think you qualify for one of the exemption categories above. If you are unsure, our team is here to help guide you.

All of our appointments are private because Medicare rebates do not cover the cost of high quality care and we do not lower our standards, therefore you will have an out of pocket expense. Medicare is your government insurer which you contribute to with your Medicare levy. Please take any concern regarding the inadequacy of your rebate up with Medicare or your local politician.

We will always explain fees and provide informed financial consent before your appointment. Please call our team if you have any questions.

Our reception team is happy to help.
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Please call us or send an enquiry and we’ll guide you through the process.