This will be discussed at the initial consultation and will vary with the size of veins and the type of treatment required. Medicare does provide a partial rebate for the treatment of larger veins. To claim a Medicare rebate for UGS a valid referral from a medical practitioner is necessary. Small veins are regarded by Medicare as cosmetic and as such their treatment receives no rebate and the Government will charge GST of 10 %.
UGS (ULTRASOUND GUIDED SCLEROTHERAPY)- as of 1st March 2008
A referral to our vascular specialist is necessary to receive a Medicare rebate.
| Fee | Medicare Rebate (approx) | Gap (Out of pocket) (approx) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation & Duplex ultrasound assessment BOTH LEGS | $450 | $265 | $185 |
| UGS treatment - First treatment | $620 | $170 | $450 |
| UGS treatment - Repeat session(s) within 3 months | $320 | $170 | $170 |
The cost does not include the medical grade (20-30mmHg compression) compression stockings that must be worn after UGS treatment. These can be supplied at the wholesale price (single full leg $55, half leg pair $45, thigh pair $75). These are reusable if more than one treatment is required.
SURFACE SCLEROTHERAPY
No referral is necessary for surface sclerotherapy.
| Fee | Medicare Rebate (approx) | Gap (Out of pocket) (approx) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation & Doppler ultrasound assessment | $150 | $85 | $65 |
| Sclerotherapy treatment of veins (If diameter 2.5mm or greater) | $270 | $88 | $180 |
| Sclerotherapy treatment of veins (If diameter less than 2.5mm) | $270 + GST | $297 |
The cost does not include bandages or compression stockings if required but these can be supplied at wholesale price.
LASER
No referral is necessary for laser therapy.
| Fee | Medicare Rebate (approx) | Gap (Out of pocket) (approx) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation and assessment | $150 | $88 | $62 |
| Laser treatment of leg veins | $280 + GST | n/a | $308 |
Payment for all of the above treatment options is required on the day of treatment. Payment can be made by cash, cheque, EFTPOS or credit card (Visa or MasterCard).
Medicare may provide a higher rebate for certain people under the Medicare Plus scheme. You should check whether you are registered and qualify with your local Medicare office.
Medical expenses in excess of $1500 are entitled to an income tax rebate. You should check whether you qualify with your accountant.
Private health insurance companies do not currently provide any rebate for any out of hospital medical procedures including vein treatments.