New restrictions on MBS telehealth items
20 Jul 2020
From Monday 20 July 2020, GPs and other medical practitioners working in general practice can only bill an MBS COVID-19 telehealth and telephone attendance where they have a relationship with the patient.
The MBS telehealth items will be restricted to the patient’s usual medical practitioner (other than a specialist or consultant physician) who:
- has provided at least one service (excluding telehealth and phone attendances) to the patient in the past 12 months, or
- is located in a medical practice at which at least one service to the patient was provided, or arranged by, in the past 12 months, or
- is a participant in the Approved Medical Deputising Service that has an agreement in place with a medical practice which has provided at least one service to the patient in the past 12 months.
These changes do not apply to telehealth services provided to a person who is:
- under the age of 12 months, or
- experiencing homelessness, or
- in a COVID-19 impacted area (movement restricted by a public health requirement applying to the patient’s location), or
- receiving the service from a medical practitioner located at an Aboriginal Medical Service/Community Controlled Health Service.
Not yet subscribed to receive our medico-legal blog? Scroll down to subscribe and stay connected.
This blog contains general information only. We recommend you contact your medical defence organisation or insurer when you require specific advice in relation to medico-legal matters.
Doctors Let's Talk: Get Yourself A Fricking GP
Get yourself a fricking GP stat! is a conversation with Dr Lam, 2019 RACGP National General Practitioner of the Year, rural GP and GP Anesthetics trainee, that explores the importance of finding your own GP as a Junior Doctor.
25 Oct 2022
Systematic efforts to reduce harms due to prescribed opioids – webinar recording
Efforts are underway across the healthcare system to reduce harms caused by pharmaceutical opioids. This 43-min recording of a live webinar, delivered 11 March 2021, is an opportunity for prescribers to check, and potentially improve, their contribution to these endeavours. Hear from an expert panel about recent opioid reforms by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
14 May 2021
Diplomacy in a hierarchy: tips for approaching a difficult conversation
Have you found yourself wondering how to broach a tough topic of conversation? It can be challenging to effectively navigate a disagreement with a co-worker, especially if they're 'above' you; however, it's vital for positive team dynamics and safe patient care. In this recording of a live webinar you'll have the opportunity to learn from colleagues' experiences around difficult discussions and hear from a diverse panel moderated by Dr Kiely Kim (medico-legal adviser and general practitioner). Recorded live on 2 September 2020.
05 Oct 2020