Public or private
In the public hospital system, if you are entitled to Medicare, the cost of medical visits, treatments and other related services for your cancer such as seeing a dietitian or social worker is covered by the Australian government.
In the private health system your private health insurance will pay part, or all of your costs, depending on the levels of health cover that you have and the treatment you need. Services such as specialist testing or counselling may be partially covered, however there is usually a cost to you. It is best to speak directly to your health care fund about the details of your health insurance.
You can be treated as a private patient in a public hospital. Some people have a mix of private and public care for their cancer treatment – an example is to choose a private surgeon or oncologist and undertake chemotherapy treatment as a public patient.