Australians have a choice in whether they want to be treated at a private hospital versus a public hospital. If you are anticipating treatment for a hand or wrist condition, it can be confusing to decide where to go for your care. There are many factors to consider, including the specific condition and treatment and the costs incurred by going to a public hospital versus a private hospital.
Public Hospital Costs in Sydney
If you have a Medicare number, you are entitled to free treatment in a public hospital. You will not incur out-of-pocket expenses, as long as your treatment is considered clinically necessary. Public hospitals employ highly trained professionals and are usually well-equipped to handle even the most complex cases.
However, there are some limitations to consider when opting to receive treatment at a public hospital. For instance, you will probably not be able to choose your doctor or provider, and you may not be able to choose the specific type of treatment for your condition if there are multiple options. You will likely share your accommodations with other patients. Moreover, if your treatment is non-urgent or elective, you may be placed on a lengthy waiting list.
Private Hospital Costs in Sydney
In addition to Medicare, you may choose to pay out of pocket for private health insurance, which entitles you to be treated in a private hospital by the doctor or specialist of your choosing. In a private hospital, you are more likely to get admitted faster for elective or non-urgent care and enjoy private accommodations. You have more of a say in determining the specific type of treatment if multiple treatment options are available.
Private health insurance plans may not completely cover the cost of your treatment. There may be a gap in the total cost of your treatment and what your private insurance pays, depending on the specific treatment and your level of coverage. Also, the private hospital you are admitted to must have an arrangement in place with your selected provider that allows him or her to treat private patients.
Private Patient In Public Hospital
If you pay for private health insurance, you have the option of being treated as a private patient in a public hospital. You may live in an area that does not have a private hospital with which your fund has an agreement. As a private patient in a public hospital, you can pick your provider and you may receive a single room if one is available. If you are thinking of checking into a public hospital as a private patient, you should talk to your private health insurer about the process and any costs that will be incurred.
Consult With Dr Jai Sungaran
Deciding where to get treatment for a hand or wrist condition is very personal. You may make your choice based on a previous experience you had with the health care system, the advice of loved ones or the advice of your doctor. Other factors to consider include the cost of getting treatment in a public hospital versus the cost of getting treatment in a private hospital in Sydney, as well as waiting periods.
Dr Sungaran is happy to discuss your options with you during a consultation. To request an appointment, please call the team at Southern Hand & Wrist on 02 95252055 or send us an email today.
