Medicare - Made Simple
Under Medicare, the EPC (Enhanced Primary Care) referral process refers to a program that allows General Practitioners (GPs) to refer eligible patients for allied health services. The EPC program aims to improve the management of chronic conditions by providing patients with access to specific allied health services, such as exercise physiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietetics, and podiatry.
Here's an overview of the EPC referral process:
Eligibility Assessment: The GP assesses the patient's eligibility for the EPC program. Generally, patients must have a chronic or complex medical condition that is expected to last at least six months or be at risk of developing such a condition.
Care Planning: If the patient is eligible, the GP develops an EPC care plan in consultation with the patient. The care plan outlines the patient's health needs, goals, and the specific allied health services required.
Allied Health Referral: The GP provides a referral letter to the recommended allied health professional(s), such as an exercise physiologist, detailing the patient's care plan and specific services required. The referral letter may be provided in paper or electronic format, depending on the preferred method of the allied health provider.
The patient brings with them the referral letter to their initial session with the allied health professional. The referral can be claimed online by the allied health professional as payment for the services provided. Sometimes a gap fee may apply if this does not cover the full cost of treatment.
Medicare Rebates: Medicare provides rebates for a maximum of five allied health services per calendar year under the EPC program.
It's important to note that the EPC referral process may vary slightly depending on the specific requirements and guidelines set by Medicare and any regional variations. Patients should consult with their GP and allied health providers for more detailed information on accessing EPC services and the specific referral process in their area.
For referrals to Aegis Exercise Physiology:
Justin Li
Exercise Physiologist
Factory 47, 2 Slough Avenue, Silverwater
NSW 2128. +61431918561
No gap fee will be charged
