From 1 July 2025, significant changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) chronic disease management framework will streamline how we manage patients with chronic conditions. Here's your essential guide to what's changing and how it affects your practice.
The Big Picture: Out with GPMPs and TCAs, In with GPCCMPs
The most significant change is the replacement of GP Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs) with a single, streamlined GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP). This consolidation aims to simplify what has been a complex dual-plan system.
What's Ceasing on 1 July 2025:
- GPMP items: 229, 721, 92024, 92055
- TCA items: 230, 723, 92025, 92056
- Review items: 233, 732, 92028, 92059
New GPCCMP Items Starting 1 July 2025:
Key Changes That Will Impact Your Practice
Simplified Requirements
- No more mandatory collaboration: The requirement to consult with at least two collaborating providers is removed
- Direct referrals: You can refer patients directly to allied health services without prior consultation
- Streamlined documentation: One plan covers everything previously requiring separate GPMP and TCA documentation
Improved Fee Structure
Both preparation and review fees are now equalised at:
- GPs: $156.55
- PMPs: $125.30
This change encourages regular reviews rather than just initial plan creation.
Enhanced Review Schedule
- Preparation: Once every 12 months (if clinically relevant)
- Reviews: Every 3 months (if clinically relevant)
- Validity: Plans don't expire, but patients need preparation or review within 18 months to continue accessing allied health services
MyMedicare Integration
Patients registered with MyMedicare must access GPCCMP items through their enrolled practice, while non-registered patients continue through their usual GP.
Referral Process Overhaul
The referral system is becoming more consistent with specialist referrals:
Out: Prescribed referral forms
In: Referral letters with minimum requirements:
- Referring practitioner's name and practice details
- Date of referral
- Referral validity (18 months for chronic conditions unless specified otherwise)
- Written explanation of reasons for referral
- Electronic signature capability
Greater Patient Choice
Referrals no longer need to specify:
- The exact allied health provider name
- Number of services required
This gives patients more flexibility to choose their preferred providers.
Transition Arrangements: No Patient Left Behind
Good news: Current patients won't lose access during the transition.
- Existing GPMPs and TCAs remain valid until 30 June 2027
- Referrals written before 1 July 2025 stay valid until all services are completed
- However, new referrals from 1 July 2025 must meet the new requirements, regardless of the underlying plan type
Important Timeline
- 1 July 2025: New system starts, but existing plans continue
- 1 July 2027: Only GPCCMPs will be accepted for allied health access and domiciliary medication management reviews
What You Need to Do Now
Before 1 July 2025:
- Familiarise yourself with the new GPCCMP requirements
- Review your referral templates to meet new letter-based requirements
- Update practice management systems for new item numbers
- Consider staff training on the simplified processes
From 1 July 2025:
- Use new item numbers for all new chronic disease management plans
- Consider transitioning existing patients to GPCCMP when they are due for review of their old GPMP/TCA
- Write referral letters for new referrals instead of using the old EPC/TCA referral template
The Bottom Line
These changes represent the most significant update to chronic disease management in Australian general practice in years. While there's an adjustment period ahead, the simplified system should ultimately:
- Reduce administrative burden by eliminating dual plans
- Improve patient care continuity through regular reviews
- Enhance patient choice in allied health providers
- Streamline referral processes to match specialist referral standards
The two-year transition period provides ample time to adapt, but starting preparation now will ensure a smooth changeover for both your practice and patients.
Disclaimer: The above article is a subjective opinion based on currently available information online. It strictly is not legal advice regarding the interpretation of the MBS. For detailed information and updates, visit the MBS Online website