An Update on Consultation Fees at Signal Health Newton

To our valued patients and families,

From January 2026, there will be a small increase to consultation fees at Signal Health Newton. Our practitioners understand that conversations about fees are important, and this update is intended to help you know what to expect when attending our practice.

Why fees are increasing

The consultation fees at Signal Health Newton have not increased in the past 18 months. During this time, the cost of running a general practice has continued to rise.

The upcoming fee adjustment represents an increase of less than the Consumer Price Index (CPI) over this period and helps manage ongoing costs, including:

• Staffing costs for experienced practitioners, nurses, and admin staff

• Medical supplies, equipment, and consumables

• Continued investment in technology, systems, and facilities that support safe, reliable care

This adjustment allows practitioners to continue providing care that is thorough, unhurried, and supported by the resources needed to maintain high clinical standards.

How billing works at Signal Health Newton

Signal Health Newton operates as a mixed-billing practice. Most consultations are privately billed, with a Medicare rebate available. The full fee is paid on the day, and the Medicare rebate is processed for you straight away, meaning your out-of-pocket cost is the gap between your practitioner’s fee and the rebate.

Some services have Medicare rebates that adequately cover the cost of care, such as 75 years and over health assessments and chronic condition management plan reviews, and these services may be provided with no out-of-pocket cost.

Some practitioners may choose to reduce their fees for a regular patient for certain visits. This is entirely at the individual practitioner’s discretion and is not applied practice-wide. If you see a practitioner who is not your regular practitioner, please don’t assume the same arrangement will apply, as each practitioner sets their own fees. These exceptions are limited, and most appointments will continue to be privately billed.

Reduced fees apply practice-wide for pensioners and healthcare card holders.

What this means for your care

This approach allows practitioners to spend the time needed to listen and provide thorough care, offer continuity with a practitioner who knows your history, and be supported by skilled nurses, caring admin staff, and safe facilities. These changes do not affect your practitioner's commitment to continuing your care or the range of services available at our practice.

Our team understands that fee changes can be challenging. If you have questions about fees or would like help understanding your options, our reception team is always happy to assist. For more information about fees, please click here.

Thank you for your understanding and for the trust you place in the practitioners and staff at Signal Health Newton.

The Signal Health Newton Team