It’s one of the Medicare changes made available to women from July 1 aimed at addressing long-standing gaps in care around menopause, gynaecological conditions, and reproductive health.
Among the most significant changes is the introduction of Medicare-covered health assessments for menopause and perimenopause. The initiative acknowledges that symptoms like hot flushes, brain fog, anxiety, and insomnia can be debilitating.
Now, GPs will be able to offer longer, more comprehensive consultations designed to identify better and manage these hormonal transitions.
Also now available under Medicare are extended specialist consultations, lasting 45 minutes or more, for conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and chronic pelvic pain.
These longer appointments are available both in-person and via telehealth.
Access to medical abortion has also changed. Nurse Practitioners and endorsed Midwives are now able to prescribe the medication MS-2Step for termination of pregnancy up to nine weeks of gestation.
The Illawarra Women’s Health Centre is planning to provide the service to women in the region, subject to funding.
Further changes are coming in November. From 1 November, Medicare will offer higher rebates and bulk-billing incentives for intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants. These changes could reduce out-of-pocket costs by up to $400 a year, making long-acting contraception more affordable.
These reforms represent an important step toward more inclusive and responsive healthcare for women. Sally Stevenson, Executive Director of the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre, said the changes are a step toward a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system.
“These Medicare changes are a long-overdue acknowledgement of the unique health needs of women,” she said. “We’re finally seeing a move toward care that listens to and supports women at every stage of life.”
Women are encouraged to speak with their GP about whether they’re eligible for the new services now available through Medicare.
