Veteran Card holders can now register for MyMedicare
Longer telehealth consultations and a formalised relationship with your general practice or GP are just some of the benefits veterans can access when registering in MyMedicare.
The Australian Government is committed to delivering improved health and wellbeing outcomes for veterans and their families. The Government has recently introduced MyMedicare, a voluntary patient registration model to help improve the continuity of quality primary health care for all Australians, including veterans.
Voluntary patient registration in MyMedicare is now open. Here’s everything you need to know:
What are the benefits?
When you register in MyMedicare, it will notify your general practice that you have chosen them as your regular care team. Additional funding will be available from the government to help them provide the care you need. By registering, you’ll receive greater continuity of care and you’ll be able to access longer telehealth consultations with your nominated GP.
When can I access the benefits?
Longer telehealth appointments at the new incentive rate will be available to patients registered in MyMedicare from November 2023. Additional patient benefits will be implemented from August 2024.
Am I eligible to register?
You are eligible to register if you:
- have a valid Medicare and/or a Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Veteran Card;
- have had two or more face to face appointments with the same GP (at the same practice) in the last 24 months; or one face to face appointment if you live in a remote location; and
- your GP’s practice and GP have registered in MyMedicare.
If you are homeless, experiencing family and domestic violence, or if you follow your existing GP to a new practice, registration exemptions may apply.
How do I register?
If you hold both a DVA Veteran Card and a Medicare card, you can only register with one of them. Your registration will apply to any relevant Medicare and/or DVA-funded service, regardless of which card has been used to register. If you choose to register in MyMedicare with a DVA Veteran Card, you will need to complete a registration form the next time you visit your usual GP practice. If you choose to use a Medicare card to register, you can do this through your Medicare Online Account or Express Plus Medicare Mobile app.
Will my information be safe?
The personal information you provide when registering in MyMedicare can be kept secure and your privacy will be maintained. MyMedicare only records your details and those of your GP and primary care team for the purpose of registration. It does not store any of your clinical health information. You can read the Privacy Notice at health.gov.au/mymedicare-privacy
Can I see more than one GP?
It’s up to you whether you see one or more GPs, however seeing the same GP regularly can lead to better health outcomes. Your GP and multidisciplinary care team can help you to maintain your health by providing regular health checks, administering immunisations and giving you personalised health advice. By nurturing a relationship with your GP, your health record remains up to date.
Talk to your regular general practice or GP about registering in MyMedicare.
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