Coffee with Gary Industry Update | July 2024

In the recent Coffee with Gary webinar, several significant industry updates were shared by AGPAL Director and Co-Surveyor Gary Smith AM, impacting various aspects of healthcare practices and policy. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key points discussed.

 

Free Palliative Care Education and Training

The Department of Health and Aged Care has compiled a list of links for free education and training materials related to palliative care, available to anyone working in primary care. These resources aim to enhance the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals in providing palliative care, ensuring better patient outcomes and support during end-of-life care.

 

Health Workforce Strategy for Queensland to 2032

Queensland’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare workforce is evident in its substantial investment plans for 2032. The state is set to invest significantly in its health workforce strategy, aiming to improve healthcare services and address workforce shortages. This initiative is expected to set a precedent for other states, highlighting the importance of strategic planning in healthcare workforce development.

 

Emergency Department Relief Package in NSW

In response to the recent NSW budget, almost a half-billion-dollar emergency department relief package has been announced. This funding aims to reduce emergency department visits through the implementation of the Single Front Door Program, urgent care services, and hospital in the home programs. These initiatives are designed to alleviate the burden on emergency departments and improve patient care within the community.

 

Rule 42 Guidance on My Health Record

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner has updated Rule 42, focusing on compliance with My Health Record access within practices. Healthcare providers must review and adhere to these new guidelines to ensure secure and proper management of patient health records.

 

Amendments to the Health Insurance Act of 1973

Proposed legislation amendments aim to streamline the billing and benefits claim process through modern technology. The Department of Health and Aged Care will work with peak bodies over the next 18 months to develop new rules, focusing on the assignment of benefits, especially in telehealth services. This initiative promises to simplify administrative processes and enhance efficiency in healthcare billing.

 

PBS Authority Required Changes from July 1, 2024

Changes to the PBS authority required procedures take effect on 1 July 2024. The new process eliminates the need to send original prescriptions, requiring only the details of the proposed PBS prescription. This shift towards a more streamlined and electronic-based system is expected to improve efficiency and reduce administrative burdens.

 

General Practice in Aged Care Incentive

A refreshed General Practice in Aged Care Incentive program was discussed, offering eligible practices and providers incentive payments for providing regular visits and care planning to older people in aged care. Payments will be made quarterly and are designed to support and enhance the quality of care provided to aged care residents.

 

My Medicare Benefits and Incentives

The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has set up a website to explain the benefits of registering with My Medicare, addressing the challenges faced by general practices in getting patients on board. The new blended funding payments support better care for people with complex chronic diseases, reducing hospital visits and improving community-based care and will roll out progressively over 3 years from now. You will also find information on the new longer telehealth items linked to MyMedicare.

 

Payroll Tax Relief in NSW

The NSW payroll tax relief, announced in the recent budget, provides legislative relief and exemptions for practices, effective prior to 4 September 2024. Practices must consult with their accountants or lawyers to understand the implications and determine whether their contractual arrangements classify as relevant contracts for payroll tax purposes.

 

Healthcare Practice Management Handbook

A new resource, “Healthcare Practice Management Handbook” by Gary Smith AM and Colleen Sullivan OAM, was highlighted as an essential guide for healthcare practice managers. This comprehensive book offers practical tools, strategies, and expert insights to enhance operational efficiency, improve patient care, and navigate the complexities of healthcare management.  Click here to purchase the book.

 

Our Coffee with Gary webinar provided valuable updates and insights into various healthcare initiatives and policy changes. These developments reflect the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery, support healthcare professionals, and enhance patient outcomes across Australia.

For those who missed the webinar or would like to revisit the information, watch the Industry Updates webinar below. Clients of AGPAL will soon be able to view the complete Coffee with Gary webinar through accreditation hub in the coming weeks. Be sure to sign up to be notified about upcoming AGPAL webinars to support your accreditation journey.