Anaesthetic fees are calculated according to the complexity of the
surgery, the time taken, and the age and general health of the patient. This all adds up to a certain unit value.  The schedule fee for anaesthetic services in private hospitals is significantly lower than that recommended by the AMA fee (per unit value).  The schedule fee is rebated 75% by Medicare and 25% by private insurance.   In most circumstances, our anaesthetists charge well below AMA rates.   

However, this still leaves a gap between the schedule fee and the anaesthetic fee.   For this reason, patients are often left with a gap. 

Some health insurers will cover more than the schedule fee whilst others don't.  If your insurer does cover more than the schedule fee, you will have a smaller out of pocket.  If your insurer does not cover more than the schedule fee, you are often left with a larger out of pocket.  In either situation, the anaesthetist is paid the same amount.