Pensioners outraged by cataract rebate threat

“Pensioners are outraged by Health Minister Nicola Roxon’s threat to get rid of the rebate for cataract surgery if their bill to halve it isn’t passed” says Charmaine Crowe, CPSA Policy Coordinator.

“This disgraceful politicking will result in thousands of pensioners and others on low incomes missing out on this essential surgery. If the private member’s bill to keep the rebate at its current level isn’t passed in the lower house, come Monday the eyesight of thousands is put at risk.”

“73 per cent of ophthalmologists work in the private system. The fact of the matter is that waiting lists in the public system are too long, and many simply have to have the treatment carried out privately as they cannot wait.”

“Without any rebate, these patients will be paying over $600 more to have their treatment. Most are already paying between $1000 and $2000 even with the rebate.”

“The halving of the rebate will not see a reduction in the price of private treatment. It will just see patients paying more. It’s a little like dental where there are not enough dentists working in the public system to ensure that people have access to the treatment, regardless of their income.”

“CPSA strongly objects to the slashing of the cataract rebate. CPSA calls on Minister Roxon and Treasurer Wayne Swan to ensure the rebate remains as it is, especially given that there are no plans on the table to cut waiting lists in the public system.”

Media contact: 0410 612 182

Charmaine Crowe
Policy Coordinator
Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association (CPSA)
Level 9, 28 Foveaux Street Surry Hills NSW, 2010
Phone (02) 9281 3588
Mob 0410 612 182
Fax (02) 9281 9716