OSHC >> When Services Are Free or Low-Cost Under OSHC
When Services Are Free or Low-Cost Under OSHC
If you've ever sat there wondering, “Is this covered? Do I need to pay? Or… should I just avoid the doctor altogether?” — you're not alone. A lot of services under OSHC are technically free or low-cost, but students are often left guessing. Let's clear things up — with help from our crew.
STI Testing Coverage Under OSHC
Antonio was feeling nervous about getting an STI test after a night that got a little too wild. “I kept asking myself, 'Is this gonna cost me like, $200?'” Spoiler: It didn't.
Good news: STI testing is usually covered under OSHC — no waiting period, no drama.
Tests like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV? Covered, as long as a doctor thinks it's medically needed.
You might pay a gap if the clinic charges above the standard fee (MBS).
Li's Tip:
📍 In Melbourne?
Mental Health Support Under OSHC
Zara was having a rough semester. Between sensory overwhelm and burnout, she needed support. “I honestly didn't think I could afford therapy—but turns out, I could.”
Waiting period?
Kaito's Tip:
Contraception Coverage Under OSHC
When Sally went to get her first prescription for the Pill, she wasn't sure if OSHC would help. “I was ready to spend a fortune. But turns out, most of it was covered.”
The GP visit to talk about contraception? Fully covered!
The Pill (if listed on the PBS): OSHC helps cover it — but you'll usually pay about $30 per pack
Condoms and non-prescription methods? Not covered.
IUDs or implants (LARCs) can cost $150–$300 including insertion. OSHC might help depending on your OSHC cover and whether they're PBS-listed, but there's often a 12-month waiting period for gynae services.
Lina's Real Talk:
Still unsure? Use 1800 My Options or your university clinic to explore free or affordable options in your area.
Services Covered From the Start
Services That May Not Be Fully Covered
Final Word: What's the Catch?
Sally's Reminder:
TLDR (Too Long Didn't Reimburse)
| Service | Covered? | Waiting Period? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GP/NP Visits | Yes | No wait | 100% MBS usually covered or 100% bulk bill |
| STI Testing | Yes | No wait | Ask if clinic bulk bills |
| Mental Health Counselling | Yes (with plan) | 0–2 months | 10 sessions/year max |
| Contraception (Pill) | Yes (PBS only) | No wait | $10-30 per script |
| IUDs/Implants | Partially | 12 months | Insertion extra may not be covered |
| Emergency Care | Yes | No wait | Fully covered in public hospitals |
| Private Birth | Not covered | 12 months | Huge gap fees |
| OTC Contraceptives | No | No | Not considered medical |
