Peninsula Health provides care to people visiting from overseas and are need of access to health care.
Important Information for Overseas Patients
As a visitor to Australia, you are not eligible for Medicare, the Australian Government’s health care program.
The Australian Government has Reciprocal Health Care Agreements with the governments of 11 countries. These agreements entitle you to limited subsidised health services for medically necessary treatments whilst visiting Australia. Please note that conditions do apply for some countries.
If you are an overseas visitor from a country who Australia does not have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with, you will be treated as a Medicare Ineligible Patient and will be required to pay the hospital for all medical care and treatment. This includes the Emergency Department attendances, inpatient (admitted) care and accommodation, as well as outpatient services and clinics.**
As an overseas visitor, it is your responsibility to ensure you have adequate health insurance cover or money to cover the cost of your health care. Subject to the terms and conditions of your policy, you may be able to claim these costs back from your health insurer. The hospital will lodge your claim on your behalf, and will advise if any balances remain outstanding.
Any outstanding balances need to be paid by the patient.
What to bring to hospital
Should you require treatment at a Peninsula Health facility please ensure you bring the following documents and information with you:
- Copy of passport (photo ID)
- Copy of Visa
- Overseas residential address and phone number
- Local residential address and phone number
- Copy of Insurance Membership Card (insured patients only)
Useful links
The Overseas Patient brochure explains the relevant fees and administrative requirements should you require health care at one of Peninsula Health’s facilities.
Further information
If you have any questions, or need assistance either before or during your admission, Peninsula Health’s Private Patient Services Officers are available to assist you by telephoning on (03) 9784 8385.
* Fees are valid effective 1 August 2024 and are subject to change at any time without notice. Please request an up-to-date quote prior to your admission.
** Fees do not include additional costs for surgically implanted prostheses, diagnostic services (e.g. pathology, radiology) or pharmaceuticals. You are responsible for these additional costs.