New $170 Medicare consult item for endometriosis a good start, say gynaecologists
The longer consultation items need to be backed up by higher rebates for diagnostics, surgery and PBS listings, says vice-president Dr Nisha Khot.
Gynaecologists have welcomed Medicare items for longer consultations for endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain, which they say have the potential to reduce waiting lists for appointments.
To be introduced in July 2025, the items cover initial and subsequent gynaecological consultations of 45 minutes or more for complex conditions, such as endometriosis and PCOS.
The rebates will be $168.60 for an initial consultation of at least 45 minutes and $84.35 for a follow-up appointment taking at least 45 minutes — almost double those for standard gynaecological consultations.
The items are expected to lead to 430,000 more consultations at a cost of $49 million, and follow extensive lobbying by RANZCOG, other medical groups and consumer advocates.
