New Medicare Mental Health Initiatives

Telehealth

For many more of us

Providing Telehealth and Video Sessions are effective for you – you can use your existing GP Mental Health Care Plan – to see me via SKYPE

Medicare has made Telehealth and Video Mental Health sessions permanent.

For example, under the service code 91176 – Focus Psychosociological Strategies, and counselling of 50mins+ by Telehealth or Video receive a rebate of $79.05

The older Monash Map based restrictions – requiring both client and practioner to be Rural, Regional or Remote – have been removed.

The recent Covid requirements for a pre-existing face to face relationship have also been relaxed.

The requirement that providers, billing Medicare, be in their exact physical office linked to their provider number, has also been lifted for Telehealth and Video services.

So I am able to be more flexible in where and when I offer Telehealth and Video Counselling.

Rebates Medicare and Private Health

Make an appointment with your GP (or pediatrician or psychiatrist) Your GP may prefer an extended appointment with time to complete the relevant mental health plan.

Ask your GP for a mental health care plan and a referral letter to Felicity Grace (Accredited Mental Health Social Worker) Medicare Provider No: 5673381X

 

Private Health Funds now recognise Medicare Registered Mental Health Social Workers. Thus if you have cover that includes a rebate for mental health counselling and psychological services you can submit a paid invoice and receive a rebate. Limits vary but many funds pay $50 for upto 10 sessions in a year.