General
You may receive a private bill for your pathology tests. This can happen when a test isn’t fully covered by Medicare, such as for specialised diagnostics, non-referred tests, or services performed in certain settings like private hospitals.
Private billing helps us maintain the highest quality care, ensuring you get accurate results and timely support. If your test is eligible for a Medicare rebate, please see the below guide on how can claim back all or some of your bill from Medicare.
Step 1: Check if your test qualifies
Look at your pathology invoice or receipt. Eligible tests will show a Medicare Item Number.
Not sure? Call us at or ask your doctor.
Step 2: Pay your bill
Pay the full amount on your Healius invoice (check your invoice for payment options like online or at Australia Post).
Keep your receipt or proof of payment - you’ll need it for your claim.
Step 3: Get your documents ready
You’ll need:
- Your invoice with the Medicare Item Number(s), provider information and service dates.
- Your receipt or proof of payment. Your receipt can be any of the below:
- AusPost receipt
- Bank transfer receipt
- BPAY receipt
- BPOINT receipt
- Net bank transfer receipt
- Official health professional receipt
- PayPal receipt
- Thermal credit card or debit card EFTPOS receipt
- Your Medicare card or number.
Step 4: Lodge your Medicare claim
Pick one of these easy options:
- Online with Medicare:
a. Log in to your myGov account linked to Medicare at www.my.gov.au (or set one up).
b. Go to Medicare, select “Make a claim,” and enter your invoice details (like the Medicare Item Number and amount paid).
c. Upload clear photos of your invoice and receipt.
d. Check your bank details are correct, then submit. You’ll usually get your rebate in 7 days.
e. Note: You can’t claim online for tests older than 2 years. - Using the Medicare App:
a. Download the Express Plus Medicare app (App Store or Google Play).
b. Log in with your myGov account.
c. Tap “Make a claim,” enter your invoice details, and upload photos of your invoice and receipt.
d. Check your bank details and submit. Rebate usually arrives in 7 days. - By Mail:
a. Get a Medicare claim form (MS014) from www.servicesaustralia.gov.au.
b. Fill it out, attach your invoice and receipt (or copies), and mail to the address on the form.
c. Rebates take about 21 days to process. - At a Service Centre:
a. Visit a Services Australia Service Centre with your Medicare card, invoice, receipt, and bank details.
b. Staff will help you lodge your claim. Rebates take about 21 days.
Step 5: Check your claim
Track your claim in your Medicare online account or app under “View recent claims.”
Make sure your bank details are up to date to get your rebate quickly.
Tips
- Bulk Billing: If your test is bulk-billed by us, you don’t need to pay or claim—Medicare is billed directly and you won’t receive an invoice.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: The rebate might not cover the full bill. You’ll pay the difference. We cap out-of-pocket costs at $320 per visit for eligible outpatient tests (where applicable).
- Private Health Cover: Check with your insurer if they cover extra costs, especially for tests done in a private hospital.
Need help?
