Getting a Medical Certificate Without Medicare

Whether you're an international student, a tourist, here on a work visa, or simply don't have Medicare, you can still access medical certificates in Australia. Here's how.

Who Doesn't Have Medicare?

• International students (most visa types)
• Tourists and short-term visitors
• Some working visa holders
• New migrants waiting for Medicare processing
• Visitors from countries without reciprocal healthcare agreements

Your Options Without Medicare

Private Telehealth Services

Many telehealth services don't require Medicare. You pay a flat fee for the consultation, the same as any other patient.

• Usually same price for everyone regardless of Medicare status
• Quick and convenient
• No need to find a clinic that accepts non-Medicare patients
• Certificates delivered digitally

Private GP Clinics

You can visit any GP clinic — you'll just pay privately. Expect to pay around $70-$120 for a standard consultation.

University Health Services

If you're a student, your university likely has a health service that caters to international students. Many offer reduced rates or are covered by your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Using Your Health Insurance

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

International students must have OSHC. This covers:

• GP visits (you may pay and claim back)
• Some specialist consultations
• Hospital treatment
• Some prescription medications

Travel Insurance

If you're a visitor, your travel insurance may cover medical consultations. Check your policy for:

• Coverage for general illness (not just accidents)
• Whether telehealth is covered
• Claim process (pay upfront or direct billing)
• Any excess or deductibles

Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements

Australia has healthcare agreements with some countries. Visitors from these countries may access Medicare:

• United Kingdom
• Ireland
• New Zealand
• Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden

Coverage varies by country. Check the Services Australia website for details specific to your country.

What to Expect Without Medicare

• You'll pay upfront for consultations
• Fees may be higher than bulk-billed services
• Prescription medications won't be PBS-subsidised
• You'll need to manage your own health records
• Follow-up care is your responsibility to arrange

Tips for Accessing Care

• Keep your health insurance details handy
• Ask about fees upfront
• Request itemised receipts for insurance claims
• Use telehealth when appropriate — often simpler than finding clinics
• For ongoing conditions, establish care with a regular GP