Psychology

If an allied health provider receives a faxed referral from a GP that is not signed, is it a valid referral?

4 November 24

I have a question regarding the validity of referrals sent via fax without a GP signature. All too frequently the GP gives the client the only signed hard copy and they either lose it or turn up without it. This leaves us chasing a referral. If the receptionist at the GP practice sends us a copy of the referral, they can only do so via fax without a GP signature. Current debate in the professional circles is underway again about whether a referral received via fax without a GP signature is indeed legal under Medicare.

Can a psychologist bill to Medicare for a walk and talk session?

4 October 24

I was hoping to please clarify which billing code is appropriate for a generally registered psychologist session using a valid mental health treatment plan lasting more than 50 minutes that is conducted at a regular location that is outside (walking session). Is 80115 the out of office code appropriate to be used for each session? My understanding was that this may constitute an unusual pattern of billing, however the code 80110 mentions specifically ‘in consulting rooms’.

Can a provider number be linked to a PO Box?

4 October 24

This psychologist was considering setting up their practice as a sole-trader and wanted to know whether they could apply for a new provider number using a PO Box rather than their residential address, due to privacy concerns. The practitioner was planning to only provide services via telehealth.