Upcoming Changes to MBS Chronic Disease Management Arrangements
From November 1st 2024, updates to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items for chronic disease management will take effect.
Introduction of a Single Plan:
The current GP Management Plan (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCA) will be replaced by a single GP Chronic Condition Management Plan.
Support for Continuity of Care: Patients that are enrolled in MyMedicare will need to access management plans through their registered practice. If you are not enrolled in My Medicare you can continue accessing plans via your usual GP.
Encouragement of Plan Reviews
- Fees Structure: Fees for developing and reviewing plans at your GP clinic will be equalised.
- Access to Exercise Physiology Medicare Referrals: To maintain access to our exercise physiology allied health appointments and other services, our patients must have their plan established or reviewed within the last 18 months.
- Formalisation of Referral Processes: The referrals to our allied health services will be made more consistent with other referral arrangements.
- Transition Arrangements: Existing patients with current GP Management Plans and Team Care Arrangements will retain access to their services during the transition.
Why These Changes Are Important
These updates are crucial for improving the care of patients with one or more chronic conditions who benefit from a structured approach to their healthcare with our allied health team. The framework also provides essential access to allied health and multidisciplinary team care, necessary for managing chronic conditions effectively.
Recommended by the MBS Review Taskforce, these changes reflect:
- The evolving burden of chronic disease
- Shifting patient expectations
- Advances in technology that enhance communication between multidisciplinary care teams and their patients.
Goals of the MBS changes for care plans
- Simplify, streamline, and modernise healthcare arrangements for professionals and patients.
- Promote continuity of care.
- Encourage the regular review of chronic condition management plans.
- Enhance communication within a patient’s multidisciplinary care team.
- Ensure that existing patients continue to receive the necessary care during the transition.
Need help with exercise and managing your chronic conditions. Learn more about our Exercise Physiology services below.
What is the current Medicare Rebate for 2024?
Join our Group Diabetes Classes
Learn more about starting Medicare funded appointments?