GP’s using ultrasound

GP’s using ultrasound

More and more GPs are choosing to use point of care ultrasound within their practices. GP’s can self-determine their own scans and access NR type Medicare item numbers. These item numbers are found within the General, MSK and O&G ultrasound sections of the MBS. As a general rule, most NR items that are utilised by metro GP’s have a scheduled fee of around $30.

However, for those GP’s in remote areas, there is an ability to attract a higher rebate. For example, a GP working in remote areas can access some MBS (R) items without a request, which have scheduled fees as high as $130. 

A written request is not required for the payment of Medicare benefits for a R-type diagnostic imaging service rendered by a medical practitioner in a remote area provided:

Definition of remote area 

The definition of a remote area is one that is more than 30 kilometres by road from: 

Application for remote area exemption  

A medical practitioner, other than a consultant physician or specialist, who believes that he or she qualifies for exemption under the remote area definition, should obtain an application form from the Department of Human Services’ website www.humanservices.gov.au. 

Quality assurance requirement for remote area exemption 

 Application for, or continuation of, a remote area exemption will be contingent on practitioners being enrolled in an approved continuing medical education and quality assurance program. For further information, please visit the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) website at www.acrrm.org.au.