The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Review Taskforce (the Taskforce) was established in 2015 to examine the more than 5,700 items listed on the MBS. The Review was independent and clinician-led, and considered how best to align MBS services with contemporary, evidence-based medical practice in order to improve access to high quality health services for all Australians.
As a result of this review, the Taskforce recommended a significant restructure of the cardiac services section of the MBS, with changes to cardiac imaging services to support high value care and ensure patients have access to the most appropriate tests for their individual symptoms and conditions.
The first stage of cardiac changes were implemented on 1 August 2020, which included changes to items for electrocardiograms (ECGs). Due to potential issues raised about these changes by peak bodies, on 29 July 2020, the Minister announced the Department would undertake a six month review of the changes, commencing in February 2021.
The ECG Review Committee will give consideration to the impact of the ECG changes on patient access and cover the cost of service provision. The Committee will be limited to 12 members independent from the MBS Review Taskforce Committee and the Cardiac Services Clinical Committee.
Please indicate your expression of interest to participate on the ECG Review Committee by completing the Expression of Interest form and sending to the Cardiac Services MBS Reviews Team by COB Monday 1 March 2021.
Responses to the expression of interest should be submitted to:
Email: cardiacservices@health.gov.au
Postal: Mail Drop Point 861, Sirius Building, 23 Furzer Street, Woden ACT 2606
Respondents will receive a confirmation of their EOI submission and will be notified of the outcome of their application as soon as practicable. All interested individuals, including respondents who are not appointed to the Committee, will have opportunity to provide feedback as part of the review process.
More information
For further information on the review process or the Committee function please email the Cardiac Services MBS Reviews Team at cardiacservices@health.gov.au