Rebate Alterations to Pathology may Negatively Impact Healthcare

Queensland pathologist Dr Mark Wyche has said that a cut in the rebate for pathology may not augur well for healthcare, especially for victims of chronic diseases or for those from rural areas.

The Federal Government has done away with a funding agreement between the coalition and all pathology companies. According to Dr Wyche, this move will impact regional pathologists as it seeks to cut the rebate for the tests conducted on-site at labs.

Dr Wyche said, "These tests they've cut are just fundamental tests which are used everyday to monitor or diagnose disease. These are things that any person would have as part of their regular long-term medical management program. Pathology is just an integral part of current medical practice."

Efforts to conduct a meeting with Federal Health Minister Nicola Roxon proved futile.

Source-Medindia
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