“This model ensures patients – particularly those with complex or chronic conditions – can spend the time they need with their GP without facing higher out-of-pocket costs,” the AMA says. “It removes the systemic disincentive for longer consultations and supports GPs to deliver the kind of care that leads to better health outcomes.”
The reformed structure, based on extensive engagement with GPs across Australia, provides for seven levels of consultation, ranging from less than five minutes to more than an hour.
“Under the current system, the MBS framework for GP consultations does not provide enough support for patients with complex conditions who need to spend more time with a GP,” the AMA says.
“The proposed structure provides extra support for longer, better-funded consultations, allowing patients to discuss all their concerns in one visit.
“The new structure increases rebates for longer consultations, reducing the financial burden on patients who need more time, and making it more affordable to access the care they need.”
The AMA says Patient-Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS) from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development confirm that patients with an ongoing relationship with their GP experience better care coordination, higher trust, and improved health outcomes.
“This proposed reform supports continuity by enabling patients to spend more time with their GP,” the AMA says. “It ensures they are not disadvantaged by a funding model that rewards short consultations, and will ease pressure on our stretched public hospital system by improving access to care through general practice.”
MBS time-tiered items for primary care are under review by the Department of Health, and whether the current time tiers appropriately support contemporary clinical practice is one of the key issues being addressed.
