Medical specialists’ lack of pricing transparency leading to bill shock for patients

While providers might bulk bill or lower fees for lower-income patients, it does not make up for the overall disadvantage in access, said Dr Sonĵ Hall. Photograph: Maskot/Getty Images

A lack of transparency in pricing from medical specialists is leading to bill shock, while a higher proportion of specialist visits among the wealthy undermines the principle of equitable Medicare, according to research in the latest issue of the Australian Health Review.

The journal highlights issues of healthcare access and equity through research from a range of institutions.