Rejected referrals ‘compromising patient care’ Cost-shifting and the used of outdated technology have been identified as the main causes for a trend GPs believe is putting patient safety at risk.
GPs rebut criticism of mental health care plan oversight Doctors have countered the accusation that GPs are leaving patients’ mental health care plans ‘largely unmonitored'.
In Practice: Changes to opioid dispensing sizes From 1 August, changes to PBS listings for certain opioid analgesics allow dispensing of smaller volumes at PBS-subsidised prices.
In Practice: Last chance for President nominations Potential nominees have until 1 August to put their name forward to be the next President of the RACGP.
DoH clarifies that expanded 80/20 rule now in place The RACGP has received confirmation that the 80/20 rule was extended to telehealth services on 1 July, despite having previously understood that it would be deferred until October.
Updated calculator provides ‘virtual billing scenario’ The college’s new billing tool is designed to help GPs simulate their annual income to help them meet lifestyle and career goals.
GPs say systemic Medicare issues impact provision of mental health care The MBS structure suggests that GP time spent on mental health is worth less than other areas of medicine, a comprehensive new survey indicates.
‘Miserly’ MBS indexation criticised An increase of 1.6% on most general medical service items has been called insufficient by the RACGP President.
Government announces last-minute delay of new telehealth rules Implementation of the proposed 30/20 and extended 80/20 restrictions have been deferred for at least the next three months.
Upcoming MBS changes GPs need to know A number of updates will be implemented from 1 July, while Medicare support for longer phone consultations will not be extended.