MyMedicare is Here.
MyMedicare is here. You may have heard this mentioned at our practice or in the media. Wondering what all the fuss is about? We have put together an outline of some of the information we know so far to help you understand what MyMedicare is, what you need to do, and why this is important.
What is MyMedicare?
MyMedicare is a free and voluntary registration system open to all Australians with a Medicare or DVA card. MyMedicare was announced by the Australian Government earlier this year as part of their strengthening Medicare program. MyMedicare aims to formalise the relationship between patients, their general practice clinic, their GP, and other members of their healthcare team.
Why should I consider registering?
Registering with a practice and GP via MyMedicare tells your general practice team that you see them as your regular provider. This then allows you to access additional services with them, such as longer telehealth (phone and video) consultations. The practice you choose will also receive more funding to be able to support your healthcare in the way you need.
You register with your regular practice and then select your preferred GP. The practice will be eligible for all additional services available under the MyMedicare program, no matter what GP you see at the practice for a particular consultation. This means that if you are unwell and need to get in to see another GP at the practice, they can still support you with the same MyMedicare services as your preferred GP. You are also not restricted to only attend the practice/GP that you register with. You will simply be identifying them as your primary GP/clinic, and they will be the practice that has access to the additional MyMedicare services.
You are eligible to register with a practice if you have had 2 or more face-to-face appointments at a practice within the past 24 months. Parents and children can be registered at the same practice, if either is eligible to register there. Parents will need to register children under 14 years of age. Children 14 and over can register themselves if they choose to do so.
The Government have also announced further benefits to come in 2024. This includes increased GP support for people living in a residential aged care facility, and increased funding to support patients with chronic disease who regularly require support from the emergency department, allowing a higher level of care from their GP, and less time in the emergency department.
The Government have announced that this is the first stage, and that further benefits will be available via MyMedicare in the future.
MyMedicare is completely voluntary, so you can choose not to register. You will still be able to access our practice and your GP. Some of the benefits listed above will not be available, but your GP will still support your healthcare needs.
Can I change my GP or practice in the future if I need to?
Absolutely! You can update your GP/practice at any time. They will need to meet the visit requirements above (2 visits in 24 months), but you can change practices at any time if there is a change to your healthcare team.
How do I register?
You can register online via your Medicare Online Account or Express Plus Medicare app.
You can also drop in to Macquarie Health Collective and our reception team can assist you with registering on one of our devices.
Further queries? Please do not hesitate to contact a member of our friendly reception team on 6882 7113, or speak to your GP for more information!