听力题 Australia has a national system of health care called Medicare. It is funded by taxpayers who pay a small percentage of their income to cover cost. This payment is called the Medicare Levy. All Australians then have all of their medical needs met for almost no charge. Some doctors do charge above the government rate and so patients may have to pay the difference between the doctor''s rate and the government prescribed fee. In addition there is a small charge for prescription drugs. Surgery and hospital charges are paid for completely if the patient is treated in a public hospital. There is also a private medical system, with private health insurance funds providing extra health benefits such as private rooms in private hospitals, rebates on optical and dental fees, etc. While the private health funds are optional, the Medicare levy must be paid by every taxpayer. Those who belong to the private funds are allowed to claim their contributions as a tax deduction. Just over 30% of Australians belong to a private health fund. The quality of health care is the same in both systems, but people who also pay private health insurance are able to go private hospitals and gain quicker access to specialists and surgery, as well as refunds on a wide range of medical services. Many Australians are prepared to pay for that service.