This document, produced in 2008, aims to provide clarification of pathology tests for refugee patients. Questions and answers authorised by Dr Andrew Leaver, Senior Medical Advisor for Medicare, Victoria and Tasmania.
Key message: Consider if tests are clinically indicated for your individual patient
The following questions are answered in this one page document:
- Question 1: What tests are eligible for a Medicare rebate?
- Question 2: The Refugee Health Assessment (RHA) may be conducted over more than one consultation and the GP only claim on the final session. Can the GP order pathology tests if there is no consultation item claimed for that day?
- Question 3: Coning arrangements for pathology services mean that pathology companies are only paid for 3 tests per time if ordered by a GP. What are the implications for GPs about these arrangements?
- Question 4: Regarding billing arrangements for RHAs, can a GP bill on the first consultation? What is the best way to bill these items?
- Question 5: If a GP bills for a consultation for treatment provided while doing a RHA does he/she need to notate it?
- Question 6: Does Medicare have rules in regard to follow-up testing?
For further information from GPV contact Lenora Lippmann 9341 5200 or email
