Health journalMedicare
MyMedicare: why register with your Rutherford GP
MyMedicare is free and voluntary. Here is what it is, how it can support your care, who can register and how to register with Rutherford Doctors.
MyMedicare is an Australian Government program that formally links patients with the general practice they usually attend. Rutherford Doctors is registered for MyMedicare, so patients across Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area who see us regularly can register with the clinic. It is free, it is voluntary, and it can help make your care more connected.
What is MyMedicare?
MyMedicare records which general practice you consider your usual practice, along with your preferred GP if you have one. This helps your practice understand who it regularly cares for, so it can plan your care, follow up on screening and reviews, and support you if your health needs change.
Benefits of registering for MyMedicare
- Your care is connected with your regular practice and GP team
- Access to some longer telehealth consultations with your registered practice
- Support for ongoing care if you live with a long-term or chronic condition
- Your practice can better plan reminders, reviews and follow-up care
Who can register for MyMedicare?
To register, you need to be eligible for Medicare. In most cases you will also have had at least two face-to-face visits with the same practice in the previous 24 months, although some patients can register without meeting this requirement. Our reception team can check your eligibility with you.
How to register for MyMedicare in Rutherford
- Ask our reception team about MyMedicare at your next visit, or call (02) 4061 7981
- Confirm your registration in your Medicare online account through myGov, or in the Express Plus Medicare app
- Choose Rutherford Doctors as your practice and, if you like, your preferred GP
- Keep seeing your regular GP for continuous, connected care
Does MyMedicare change bulk billing?
No. Rutherford Doctors is a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice, and all Medicare-eligible consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card whether or not you register for MyMedicare.
Can I still see other doctors?
Yes. MyMedicare does not lock you in. You can still visit other GPs, specialists, after-hours services and hospitals when you need to. Registering simply records that Rutherford Doctors is your usual practice.
Registering children and families
Each family member registers individually, including children. Parents and guardians can confirm registration for children in their Medicare online account or the Express Plus Medicare app.
MyMedicare and chronic condition care
If you live with a long-term condition, MyMedicare can support more coordinated care with your regular GP, including GP chronic condition management plans and regular reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Is MyMedicare free?
Yes. Registering for MyMedicare is free and voluntary.
How long does registration take?
Once the practice has sent your registration request, confirming it in your Medicare online account or the Express Plus Medicare app only takes a few minutes.
Can I change practices later?
Yes. You can update or end your MyMedicare registration at any time.
Do I need to register to see a GP at Rutherford Doctors?
No. Everyone is welcome, and registering is optional.
Sources: Services Australia; Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
This article is general health information written by the Rutherford Doctors team. It has not been written or reviewed by our GPs and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
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