The pay scheme allows users to spread the full cost of a scan, consultation or pharmacy purchase over four fortnightly payments interest-free. Missed payments incur a $10 late fee, a further $7 if still unpaid seven days later, and capped at $68 or 25 per cent of the original price.
"If you only have to pay a portion at a time you might go ahead with it, even though you may not be able to afford it,” Professor Viney said."I would be particularly concerned about people with chronic or complex conditions who need a lot of services and the bills pile up and may be vulnerable financially because they're off work,” Professor Viney said.
"With more than 11 million Australians not having access to 'Extras' cover, we are meeting a genuine need – and for those that do have cover, there is nearly always going to be a gap payment that needs to be made," Afterpay's head of healthcare Mathew Cagney said. Patients will often turn up for an MRI scan to find it is not covered by Medicare, a signal that the test may not be recommended or helpful for their presentation. But many patients would find it hard to leave at that point, particularly if they are concerned about their health.
"We are receiving strong customer feedback that Afterpay is making healthcare more affordable for Australians, allowing them to get the treatment they need whilst managing their other household expenses," Mr Cagney said. More than half of users reported spending more than they did before they used a buy-now-pay-later arrangement, according to the report.
Kaubo I like ur likes. I Trying to my friend be saved. We should the new style. Hi guys
Kaubo Please don't charges dabble for your app support . Hi guys
Kaubo Love too paying all ur bills Aus. Hi dear
Kaubo Americanisation. This should be a dirty word, and be being dropped every time something like this comes along.
Kaubo Bloody great idea! Now anyone can afford to look after their health care.
Kaubo Hell no
Kaubo My dentist is introducing it next month. What a trap for poor people in pain... should not be allowed for any health issue, it's almost blackmail when pain is involved. auspol
Kaubo This is extremely concerning .. we are going to turn into America soon if we’re not careful!! 😡
Kaubo We'll turn into the USA
Kaubo all the brokes will love this and end up further in debt - and never escape