As a foreigner living in Geelong, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"As a foreigner living in Geelong, your access to public healthcare largely depends on your visa status and the agreements Australia has with your home country. If you are from a country that has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia, you may be eligible for some subsidized health services through Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system. However, this does not cover all medical costs, and you may still need to pay for certain services. Medicare provides a high standard of care, covering essential health services including consultation fees for doctors, specialists, and optometrists, as well as necessary treatments and procedures. However, it does not cover private patient hospital costs, dental examinations and treatment, ambulance services, physiotherapy, spectacles and contact lenses, and hearing aids. If you are not from a RHCA country, or if you want more comprehensive coverage, you may need to take out private health insurance. This can cover the services not included in Medicare and can also give you more choice in your healthcare, such as the ability to choose your own doctor or specialist. In terms of quality, Australia's healthcare system is considered one of the best in the world. The hospitals and clinics in Geelong are well-equipped and staffed with highly trained medical professionals. However, waiting times can be long for non-urgent treatments and procedures, especially in the public system. In conclusion, while you may have access to public healthcare in Geelong, it's important to understand the limitations of this coverage and consider private health insurance for more comprehensive care," remarked another expat in Geelong, Australia.