I can’t help with the bulk billed because I paid as part of a package with the NIPT test. But the care in Australia definitely needs to be self lead. If you would like continuity of care with a midwife you either need to hassle the hospital to get into their MGP program or get a private midwife. Otherwise you will see a different midwife every appointment and probably a different one at your birth.
Hey Hannah, don’t have any advice for bulk bill but I got refer to sunshine hospital too and they did not give me a call until I was 35weeks. Moved from Sydney to Melbourne when I was 30weeks pregnant. So I went back to my GP and said I need another referral letter and I want to go to royal woman hospital at parkville. They gave us a call 2 days later and scheduled an appointment for us. We live in melton is a bit of a drive but I think it’s worthy for us. They took good care of us.
Update: got an ultrasound booked in for 21 weeks at deer park which is fully bulk billed! I will also be calling the hospital to chase them on getting the ball rolling there. Thank you for all your advice. Super helpful. My first foray on peanut has been a success!
@Dani This is SO helpful Dani! Thank you so so much!! It is a bit of a minefield but you’ve really helped me out. I’ll call Deer Park tomorrow. All the best with your home stretch x