A Specialist Anaesthetist, who has obtained a FANZCA qualification (Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists), has typically undergone 5 years of specialty training in addition to pre-specialisation training of at least 2 to 3 years. This is after obtaining their basic medical degree, which is at least 6 years or longer.

Anaesthetists determine their fees based on the Relative Value Guide. This bases fees on the nature, complexity and duration of the anaesthesia service.

Medicare and private health funds can rebate some or all of this fee.

If the anaesthetist’s fee is not fully covered by Medicare or your health fund, then there is an ‘insurance shortfall’ or ‘out of pocket’ amount, which you will need to cover. This is not the same as your hospital ‘excess’.

You have the right to ask your anaesthetist about fees and request an estimate. You have the right to ask your health fund whether you will be covered.

The above excerpt is taken from the Australian Society of Anaesthetists’ (ASA) website. Dr Gloria Seah is a member of the ASA. Click here to read more about how anaesthesia fees work.