Medicare Support for Eating Disorder Treatment

On 1 November 2019, the Australian Government introduced a new Medicare initiative to support people with diagnosed eating disorders. This program allows patients to access comprehensive treatment through a coordinated step-care approach, including sessions with psychologists and dietitians.

What Does the Medicare Initiative Include?

Under this initiative:

• Patients can attend up to 40 sessions with a psychologist.

• Patients can attend up to 20 sessions with a dietitian.

This treatment uses a step-care approach, which ensures care adapts to each person’s progress and needs.

How the Step-Care Approach Works

1. Initial Assessment and EDP Preparation
   A GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician prepares an Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP). During this stage, they refer patients to the appropriate allied health practitioners, including psychologists and dietitians. The initial referral usually provides:

   • 10 psychology sessions

   • 20 dietitian sessions

2. Engagement with Your Allied Health Team
   Patients begin treatment with their psychologist and dietitian. After 10 psychology sessions, the managing practitioner (usually your GP) reviews the EDP to determine if treatment should continue. If they approve, they can refer for another 10 psychology sessions.

3. Specialist Review
   Patients must complete a specialist review with a psychiatrist or paediatrician before exceeding 20 psychology sessions. It is advisable to arrange this review when the EDP is first prepared, as waiting times can vary.

4. Continuing Treatment Beyond 20 Sessions
   After 20 sessions, the managing practitioner reviews the EDP again. If both the specialist and managing practitioner agree, they refer the patient for an additional 10 sessions with a psychologist.

5. Maximum Number of Sessions
   The Medicare program allows a maximum of 40 psychology sessions. Patients must undergo a review after completing 30 sessions to access the final 10 sessions.

Key Points for Patients

While the step-care process may seem complex, remember:

• Reviews occur every 10 sessions with your managing practitioner or specialist.

• Your psychologist guides you through the process and helps track your appointments.

• Coordination between your psychologist and dietitian ensures a consistent and collaborative approach.

Coordinated Care at CBT Professionals

At CBT Professionals, our team includes:

• Five psychologists with specialised experience in eating disorders

• A dedicated dietitian specialising in eating disorder treatment

Having a co-located allied health team allows practitioners to share information efficiently and provide coordinated, personalised care.

How to Access Treatment

To begin treatment:

1. Download our Referral Form and take it to your GP.

2. Your GP prepares your Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP).

3. Start treatment with a psychologist and dietitian as outlined in your EDP.

Download ED Referral Form Here

FAQs: Medicare Eating Disorder Support

Q: How many psychology sessions can I access under Medicare for an eating disorder?
A: Up to 40 sessions with a psychologist.

Q: How many dietitian sessions are available?
A: Up to 20 sessions under Medicare.

Q: Who prepares the Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP)?
A: Your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician prepares the EDP.

Q: Why are regular reviews necessary?
A: Reviews every 10 sessions ensure your treatment remains appropriate and effective.

Q: Can I access both psychology and dietitian sessions at the same clinic?
A: Yes, at CBT Professionals, your allied health team works together to provide coordinated care.