Can I get a rebate from Medicare?

We hear this question regularly as Osteopaths and if you haven’t asked this question, perhaps you should!

The simple answer is YES … IF you meet the eligibility criteria.

YES … IF YOU MEET THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

You CAN get a Medicare rebate for Osteopathy through what’s called a Chronic Disease Management Plan (formerly known as the Enhanced Primary Care Program).

Firstly, you need to head to your local GP who will discuss with you whether you meet the criteria to be part of this program.

Basically, if you have a ‘chronic’ physical condition, meaning something that you have suffered with for longer than 6 months you will most likely be eligible.

If you are eligible, your GP will then write you a referral to a specific Osteopathy practice (hopefully us here at KHC!) for a total of up to 5 rebated consults to be used within that calendar year.

Easy right?!

SO, HOW MUCH CAN I SAVE?

The current Medicare rebate is $55.10 per Osteopathic consult, regardless as to whether it is an initial or return visit.

At our practice, what you need to do is pay the full fee upfront yourself first, and then we can process the Medicare rebate and get it back to you on the spot.

TO WRAP IT ALL UP:

· Yes, you can get a Medicare rebate for Osteopathy, using the CDM Program

· You need a GP referral, and the right type of physical condition

· You can get $55.10 rebate for up to 5 visits per year

· We can process the rebate on-the-spot, straight back onto your debit card

So, if you are suffering from a chronic ongoing condition such as arthritis, lower back pain, RSI, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke or any other condition giving you musculoskeletal pain.

Go and see your GP ASAP and ask for a CDM plan to see an Osteopath at KHC who can help you get active, healthy and back to doing what you love!

Dr. James Wake (Osteopath)

For more information check out this useful patient information PDF available through the Department of Health website:

Chronic Disease Management Patient Information – Department of Health