GPs push back on ‘outdated’ paperwork rule for bulk-billed telehealth consults
GPs and practice managers are frustrated and confused by a Department of Health update, says Dr Danielle McMullen.
GPs have spoken out against Medicare rules requiring them to get patient consent to bulk-bill a telehealth consultation and then send the documentation to the patient.
New official guidance says patients must consent to bulk-billing, and if they do so verbally during a telehealth appointment, GPs must fill out an “approved form” and send it to the patient “by email or text”.
The guidance says no legislation has changed and its aim is to “clarify … how providers can obtain a patient’s assignment of benefits verbally, where they are not able to obtain written agreement”.
But AMA vice-president Dr Danielle McMullen said the guidance caused confused and frustrated members to reach out for advice.
