Questions raised over new crackdown on after-hours GP service A key health watchdog is investigating Australia’s largest after-hours GP service in the first ever inquiry into a company rather than individual doctors.
Use of general practice and enhanced primary care services rising Data on Medicare-subsidised health services shows Australians are visiting GPs more, with general practice representing one in three services used.
Proposed data-matching laws could lead to excessive monitoring of GPs: RACGP The sweeping new laws would, if passed, allow the Federal Government to match datasets from the Medicare Benefits Schedule and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
GPs should be able to see their billing against national averages: RACGP President Dr Harry Nespolon believes such a change would help to ensure GPs are billing correctly.
RACGP warns photo ID Medicare cards may increase risk of fraud President Dr Harry Nespolon has warned the One Nation plan would not solve fraudulent use and may raise the ‘spectre of the Australia Card’.
Expert backs RACGP calls for access to specific MBS items in prison People who are imprisoned have unique and extensive healthcare needs – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people even more so.
‘Take action to stay well’: Tailored health checks for veterans New comprehensive health checks for ex-serving ADF members are designed to help ease the transition to civilian life.
How can GPs stay safe amid increasing scrutiny of billing? Medico-legal adviser Nerissa Ferrie has a few tips on how to bill appropriately and stay protected.
Medicare confirms validity of electronic referrals A six-month push for information has provided clarity on the previously murky area of Medicare rebates derived from electronic referrals.
Medicare compliance is ramping up: What GPs need to know The Department of Health is cracking down on Medicare compliance. Medico-legal expert Sara Bird has some recommendations to help GPs.