The federal government insists its wide-ranging review of thousands of Medicare services and the treatment of chronic and mental illness will search for efficiencies, not savings.
The review has the initial support of Labor and the Greens who believe it's time to take a good look at the 5500 services - from cancer treatments to blood tests - included in the Medicare Benefit Schedule.
However Labor's backing is not unqualified, with health spokeswoman Catherine King "deeply suspicious" about the government's intentions.
Health Minister Sussan Ley on Wednesday announced the "industrial strength" process while writing-off as "absolutely history" the coalition's controversial GP co-payment plan.
A freeze on GP and specialist Medicare rebates will stay put for the time being while the government consults health professionals.
Ms Ley has established an expert panel to look into the schedule amid concerns outdated options are moulding inefficient care.
Another advisory body will assess the system's ability to cope with chronic disease and mental health.
It's not clear how much a shake-up of Medicare could return to the budget.
"This is not a savings exercise," Ms Ley said.
"We know it can be a win for governments and a win for patients."
Labor leader Bill Shorten stamped the review "good news" but accused the government of taking too long to consult with doctors.
"It's the government who's stolen 18 months of this nation's life by wasting the nation's time on five different versions of the tax on sick people going to GPs," he told reporters in Canberra on Wednesday.
Ms King fears the government will use the review to "rip" money out of health care, a concern echoed by the Greens.
"This review must be about improving efficiency, not a government cash grab," Greens senator Richard Di Natale said.
Labor and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners also want the rebate freeze scrapped immediately to prevent patients paying more to see their doctors.
Ms Ley wants that too, but not until she's consulted health professionals.
The expert panels will report to government later in the year.
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