Medicare billing in public hospitals
Date published:
17 May 2021
The Australian Government Department of Health (the Department) has updated its Medicare Billing in Public Hospitals webpage.
The Department has concerns around duplicate payments, where MBS payments are made for services already funded under the National Health Reform Agreement. Improving its online guidance material to strengthen provider education on appropriate Medicare billing in public hospitals is a key part of addressing these concerns. Feedback from multiple peak bodies and clinicians, including the RACP, helped inform changes to the case studies on the webpage. These case studies now clarify appropriate referrals following episodes of hospital care, and the hospital’s responsibility to undertake any testing required for public patients. The feedback has also informed a new set of FAQs, which provide additional clarity on key points raised in the case studies.
The Department thanks peak bodies and clinicians involved in the revision process. If you have further comments or feedback, please contact the department at hospital.compliance@health.gov.au.