COVID-19
Telehealth Video and Phone Consultations

MBS Changes Consumer Factsheet

The outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has brought with it several disruptions and changes to people’s lives. There is greater uncertainty, and individuals are worried about their physical and mental health, finances, career, families, and friends. The recent changes to physical distancing and the request to stay at home, if possible, has brought more challenges, to our everyday lives.

Protecting the health and well-being of my patients, myself and the wider community is my number one priority. So, all my psychological services have been transferred, to either telehealth video or telephone sessions, for my individual patients and couples therapy.

The Federal Department of Health made available new temporary MBS telehealth item numbers from 13 March 2020 to 30 September 2020, for clinical psychologists, psychologists and other allied health practitioners.  Since 13 March 2020, there has been some fine tuning of the eligibility criteria for individuals. As of  20 April 2020 all bulk billing requirements have been lifted. Psychologists may apply their usual billing practices to all telehealth items. However, if you are experiencing financial distress, please discuss this with me.

 

Eligibility

Eligibility for psychology services provided under new temporary MBS telehealth items
A patient must be referred by an eligible medical practitioner and have a valid referral. Services can form part of an eligible treatment, management or care plan, including telehealth services.

  • Mental Health Treatment Plans
  • Chronic Disease Management Plans
  • GP Management Plans
  • Shared Care Plans
  • Team Care Plans
  • Multidisciplinary Care Plans

Fees and Rebates

Individuals who are entitled to Medicare related services are eligible for the Telehealth services. For individuals, there will be an additional gap payment, like the gap payment payable for face to face psychological services. If you are experiencing financial distress, please discuss the gap payment with me.

Please contact your private health insurer, as most providers will make available rebates, for 30 March 2020, during the COVID-19 period.