Gap fees for surgeries in private hospitals are growing at a concerning rate.

This week we have published a detailed list that shows how much out-of-pocket charges have risen in the last five years for 100 different procedures in the private system. See how it could affect you here.

While the health minister has pointed the finger at specialists charging too much in some parts of the country, surgeons say the Medicare schedule of fees is now so far from reality the problem will only get worse without major reform.

One area the list shows is becoming more and more expensive is weight loss surgery.

Codie McGovern is just one human face affected by the issue. She lost an incredible 85kg – or half her body weight – but has now been quoted a huge bill to get 12kg of excess skin removed in the private system. That's even though she has gold cover health insurance. For now she’s living with painful rashes that make it harder for her to stay active and healthy.

It was also a very proud moment for our team this past week when medical editor Robyn Riley was named as a Walkley Award finalist in the category of Scoop of the Year. She exclusively revealed that a couple had given birth to a stranger's baby in a horror mix-up by Monash IVF. Her reporting has prompted some important changes, including that the industry will eventually no longer be able to police itself.

Have a great week.