While normal consultation costs are set to increase, rebates for patients needing vital surgeries such as cataract removal or hip replacements can expect rebates to be slashed by up to $300.

Increased costs for patients, many of whom are pensioners, could force people to wait longer before seeing a doctor and put further pressure on the health system.

The Federal Government has said cataract rebates have been cut to cater for technology and the quick procedure time, but eye specialists have refuted both claims.

According to the Govern-ment, a surgery takes 15 to 20 minutes, but doctors maintain it takes 30 to 40 minutes and while technology is always increasing, doctors have not put up their costs and the rebate has only been cut twice in the last 20 years.

"Cataract removal is one of the most important surgeries for our patients, it improves quality of life incredibly but now some people may not be able to afford it," Dr Alok Sharma said.

"If the Government thinks that by cutting the rebate we will cut our fees, it would decrease patient care and again the only person who loses is the patient."

Peter Katsoolis, president of the Griffith Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association branch said any rebate cut would put unfair financial pressure on older Australians.

"It would virtually eliminate the pension increase we received earlier in the year. It seems they're giving with one hand but taking with the other," Mr Katsoolis said.

"When we're taking $60 for just a doctor's consultation, many people are going to put it off because they can't afford it and if cataracts are left untreated, they can put a large number of people at risk."