Medicare EPC

As you may be aware, as of 1st July 2004, patients with a chronic condition or complex care needs, under an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan, can be referred to an allied health practitioner when you believe the patient could benefit from their care.

Podiatry services are included in this scheme. Podiatrists diagnose and treat a range of disorders of the lower leg and feet. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and arthritis often have associated foot problems which can impact on mobility and independence. Therefore, some of your patients with chronic and complex conditions may benefit from a referral from you under this scheme.

Please note the following features of an EPC plan:

Patients must be under an EPC plan prepared and lodged by you with the Health Insurance Commission
Patients are entitled to a total of 5 visits per year to allied health practitioners, not 5 vitits per practitioner
Referrals must be on the correct EPC plan referral form.
Send your patient to us with the original referral form only after you have lodged their care plan with the H.I.C.

I am happy to be a part of EPC plans and look forward to contributing to your patients' care. Any referrals accepted by my practice will be followed up with a report so that you are kept informed of all relevant assessment findings and treatment plans.

For more information on EPC plans, please visit the following websites:

http://www.racgp.org.au/epcsite/cp.asp

http://www.health.gov.au/internet/wcms/Publishing.nsf/Content/health-epc-careplan.htm

For new forms:

www.hic.gov.au/provider/forms

Please contact me if you have any queries regarding the EPC plan scheme.

Ph: 98900880

Fax: 98982426

Email: evert@boxhillpodiatry.com.au