Is the $102 Medicare item for menopause assessment destined for a short shelf life?Â
GPs may prefer time-tiered consultation items over the new menopause assessment item.
The Federal Government says its new Medicare item for menopause assessments is changing the game, but there are concerns it’s more image than substance — a redux of the maligned Heart Health Check item.
Since July, item 695 has offered a $101.90 rebate for GP assessments of patients experiencing early menopause, perimenopause, menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency.
Under Medicare, the assessment must last 20 minutes or more and include history-taking, blood pressure measurement and a basic physical examination.
But will doctors use it? Is it enough for the care involved?
