Pathology peace deal under attack

The AMA is on the attack over a peace deal between the federal government and Pathology Australia.

The Australian Medical Association has warned the deal would still mean cuts to bulk-billing incentives for pathology services.

"To say there is a guarantee bulk-billing rates won't change is incorrect and we'll have to wait to see what the effect of these cuts is long term," AMA chief Brian Owler told ABC radio.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told the first leaders' debate in the election campaign on Friday night that bulk billing arrangements would continue, after Health Minister Sussan Ley brokered a deal.

Changes to bulk-billing incentive payments due to come into force from July 1 were slated to save the budget $650 million over four years.

Pathologists had been up in arms, warning they were unable to absorb the costs and would have to pass them on to patients.

AAP understands the government is pushing ahead with the savings measures, however, the government will address regulation of overpriced rents on collection centres.

Pathology Australia flagged there would be a formal announcement on Saturday.