3.9.3.20 CSHC Benefits

Concessions for CSHC holders

Benefits available to CSHC holders include:

• medicines listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at the concessional rate,
• access to PBS prescriptions, generally without charge, for the remainder of the calendar year after reaching the PBS Safety Net,
• bulk-billed GP appointments, at the discretion of the GP (the Australian Government provides financial incentives for GPs to bulk-bill concession cardholders),
• a reduction in the cost of out-of-hospital medical expenses above a concessional threshold, through the Extended Medicare Safety Net,
• ES if qualified (1.2.7.50), and
• in some instances, additional health, household, transport, education and recreation concessions which may be offered by state or territory and local governments and private providers. However these providers offer these concessions at their own discretion, and the availability of these concessions may vary from state to state.

Dependants (1.1.D.65) not entitled to concessions

Dependants of CSHC holders are NOT entitled to concessions. CSHC holders with dependants can test their eligibility for a LIC. CSHC holders who qualify can hold both cards.

Duration of CSHC

The CSHC is valid for 12 months and is reissued on 1 August each year provided CSHC holders continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Essential Medical Equipment Payment

The EMEP is an annual payment available to people or their carers who are covered by an eligible concession card, and use essential medical equipment or additional heating/cooling to manage their disability or medical condition in their home.

The EMEP provides assistance to meet the additional costs of running essential medical equipment and medically required heating or cooling that will arise from the introduction of a carbon pricing scheme.