As a foreigner living in Gold Coast, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

We asked expats in Gold Coast if they have access to public healthcare in Gold Coast. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"As a foreigner living in Gold Coast, your access to public healthcare largely depends on your visa status and the agreements Australia has with your home country. If you are from a country that has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia, you may be eligible for some subsidized health services through Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system. However, this does not cover all medical costs, and you may still need to pay for certain services. Australia's healthcare system is known for its high standards. Public hospitals are well-equipped and staffed with trained medical professionals. However, waiting times can be long for non-emergency treatments. Many residents and long-term visitors also opt for private health insurance to cover services not included in Medicare, such as dental care, optometry, and physiotherapy. It's also important to note that most temporary visa holders are required to have Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) or Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as a condition of their visa. This insurance helps cover any medical costs you might incur in Australia. In terms of pharmacies, they are widely available across the Gold Coast, and prescription medications are generally affordable, especially if they are covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Overall, while you may have access to public healthcare as a foreigner in the Gold Coast, it's crucial to understand the specifics of what is covered and what isn't, and to consider additional health insurance if necessary," said another in Gold Coast, Australia.

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