29 October 2025
As of November 1st, three specialist telephone items will be added to Medicare, making healthcare more accessible for everyone, no matter where they live.
The specialist items for longer, more complex consultations by phone will address the ongoing gap in telehealth services for those who can’t access specialist care in person or via video.
The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) welcomes this announcement and the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring healthcare is available to Australians right around the country.
RACP President, Professor Jennifer Martin, says this will mean the most to people who have put their health on the backburner because of ongoing access issues.
“This is a huge win for people in regional, rural and remote communities who experience higher rates of complex and chronic diseases than their metro counterparts.[1]
“People who’ve struggled with long travel times, technology barriers or mobility challenges will feel relief, knowing their specialist telephone consultations for complex care will be more accessible than before.
“This is about addressing health inequities, which the College has always worked to improve – and we’re thrilled to see the Government is implementing solutions we know will fill critical gaps in care.
“As Australia’s health care needs grow more complex, we need to have a fit-for-purpose system that allows for people to access the care they need when and where they need it. Expanding telehealth will have flow-on effects that will ease pressure on our healthcare system and allow for better service delivery.
“Patients and physicians work together to develop the most appropriate healthcare plan, whether it’s by phone, video or face-to-face, so having options is important for patients and doctors to find a method that works for them.
“We celebrate this announcement as a win for all Australians, which will improve healthcare access from the bush to the city and deliver better health outcomes in the long run.
“This outcome wouldn’t have been possible without the continued advocacy of our members on the ground who have seen firsthand the benefits flexible telehealth options provide for their patients.
“Patient-centred approaches to care are the way forward. The Federal Government needs to continue investing in coordinated, fit-for-purpose Medicare services that will improve health and wellbeing across the country,” says Professor Martin.
You can read more about telehealth services on the MBS website here: MBS Online - MBS Telehealth Services
[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – Rural and remote health