Enhanced Primary Care in Launceston
Solutions to Support Long-Term Health
Making healthcare accessible and appropriate for people with ongoing needs is a key focus of Medicare’s Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program. Now known as Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plans, these arrangements help eligible individuals receive care from various health professionals who work collaboratively to achieve optimal outcomes.
Who Benefits from Enhanced Primary Care?
People living with persistent conditions that have lasted or may continue for six months or longer may qualify for an EPC plan. This includes individuals managing muscular conditions, cardiovascular concerns, diabetes, or ongoing joint issues. Your general practitioner can advise you on whether this program aligns with your healthcare requirements and guide you through the qualification process.
How to Create Your Personal Healthcare Team
Your GP coordinates with multiple healthcare professionals to create a personalised plan to address your specific needs. This collaborative approach, known as a Team Care Arrangement (TCA), brings together various registered practitioners working together to support you completely.
The process begins with a thorough assessment by your primary, who will evaluate your health status and determine the most beneficial combination of allied health services for your situation. This personalised approach ensures you receive the most appropriate care for your specific circumstances.
Meet Your Healthcare Support Network
The program provides access to numerous allied health services through Medicare support. At Tamar Chiropractic, we work alongside other qualified practitioners to deliver comprehensive healthcare solutions.
The range of available allied professionals includes:
- Chiropractors and physiotherapists
- Dietitians and exercise physiologists
- Occupational therapists and podiatrists
- Mental health workers and psychologists
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners
- Speech pathologists and audiologists
- Osteopath
- Diabetes Educator
Making the Most of Your Medicare Benefits
The program allows five individual consultations across all allied health services per calendar year. Depending on your plan requirements and doctor recommendations, these visits can be distributed among different practitioners or allocated to one specific provider. This flexibility ensures you can access the services that best suit your needs.
Your allied health professionals will communicate with your GP about your progress, ensuring a coordinated approach. This ongoing communication helps maintain consistency in your healthcare journey and allows for adjustments to your plan as needed.
Medicare Rebates and Financial Planning
While Tamar Chiropractic provides services under the EPC program, it’s helpful to know that Medicare offers a rebate rather than being completely free. The rebate amount typically exceeds standard private health insurance benefits, offering good value for those managing ongoing health conditions.
Getting Started with Your Care Plan
You’ll need a current referral from your primary doctor to begin your EPC journey. This referral can specify either our practice or the type of professional you wish to see. During your care, we communicate with your GP, providing updates about your progress and any necessary adjustments to your care plan.
Managing Your Healthcare Journey
If you’ve used your allocated visits for the calendar year, you may continue receiving care through private appointments or potentially using private health insurance. Remember, you cannot use both Medicare rebates and private insurance for the same consultation.
Regular attendance and active participation in your care plan help achieve the best possible outcomes. Our practitioners work closely with you to develop strategies that support your goals and enhance your daily activities.
Reach out today
For questions about Enhanced Primary Care plans or to book a consultation, contact our friendly team in Launceston. We’re here to help you understand your options and support your path toward improved wellness.
CONTACT US
