Enhanced Primary Care Program (EPC) is a government initiative which allows individuals with a chronic medical illness/condition to receive Medicare rebates for allied health services, such as physiotherapy (refer to below list for other allied health services).
What is a Chronic Medical Illness/Condition?
A chronic medical condition is an illness and/or condition which have been present, or likely to be present for more then six (6) months. Such illnesses/conditions include cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes and musculoskeletal conditions.
What are the benefits of an Medicare EPC Plan?
A Medicare EPC plan is put in place to assist you and your GP to manage your chronic medical illness/condition by identifying and managing your needs and planning the best method of treatment.
A Team care arrangement is then made between your GP and you, which provides an organised approach to your care. This approach allows the coordination and collaboration of your treatment plan with the following health care providers.
Eligible Allied Health Professionals:
- Aboriginal Health Workers
- Occupational Therapist
- Audiologists
- Osteopaths
- Chiropractors
- Physiotherapists
- Mental Health Workers
- Diabetes Educators
- Podiatrists
- Dieticians
- Psychologists
- Exercise Physiologists
- Speech Pathologists
How Do I Apply For The Medicare EPC Program?
You need to consult your GP who will perform a health assessment to determine whether you would benefit from a Medicare EPC program. Once a Medicare EPC plan is agreed upon, then you can be referred to up to five (5) allied health services each calendar year at $50.05 each.
Please note that the five (5) services can be either provided by one allied health professional or shared between multiple allied health professionals. Also, keep in consideration that the allied health professional/s must meet specific eligibility criteria and be registered with Medicare Australia.
For Further Information:
- Consult your GP or Practice Nurse
- Talk to your allied health professional
- Visit the Department of Health and Ageing website at www.health.gov.au
- Contact your local Medicare Office
