How to avoid hefty GP check-up charges

Going to the doctor can be expensive unless you can find one that bulk bills.

Now, a new medical directory is making it easy for patients to find no gap services in their suburb.

New independent medical directory MindTheGap helps map health services across Queensland's south-east by price and location.

Creator James Gillespie says in some cases patients are looking at up to $80 for consultations.

And it's a postcode lottery.

"There are enormous differences from place to place as to how much it's going to cost you to see a doctor," Mr Gillespie says.

The medicare rebate for a standard consultation is $37 but private GP practices charge above this rate, leaving patients to pay the gap, sometimes as high as $43 for just a 15 minute consultation.

But if you find a bulk billing doctor, there's no fee.

The MindTheGap directory found:

In Inner Brisbane suburbs, only 19 percent of GPs bulk bill, compared to half of GPs in Southport and Redbank Plains.

In Mt Gravatt 61 percent of doctors don't charge the gap fee, along with 62 percent in Caboolture.

Three quarters of doctors bulk bill in Loganholme.

It's not just doctors who bulk bill - you can also find other health care providers such as podiatrists, physiotherapists and dietitians.

It's worth checking - if you have a chronic condition your GP can organise free treatment through a special Management Plan.

Eligible children can get $1000 worth of free dental care every 2 years - optometrists offer free, yearly eye tests for over 65s.

Australia's peak medical body says choosing a doctor isn't always about the price.