Provider news

Recent cyber-attacks on health providers’ records, and the consequent hacking of patients’ personal banking and other accounts, highlight the need to be ever vigilant about the security risks to patient records.

The Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) has improved the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) to expand support available to eligible DVA clients.

The way orthotists can deliver services to Australia’s veteran community is changing.

In 2018, DVA conducted a comprehensive compliance review of dental services provided to clients, for the period 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2017.

If you want to prescribe a clinically appropriate medicine that is not included on the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) Schedule of Items, you can speak to a member of the VAPAC team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, about prior approval.

Occupational therapists will benefit from the simplified DVA Occupational Therapists Schedule of Fees which started on 1 March 2019.

Health providers including GPs, hospital discharge planners, community nurses, occupational therapists and physiotherapists may have veteran patients who can benefit from Veterans’ Home Care (VHC).

Each year DVA targets specific health care provider activity to ensure payments made to providers, suppliers and clients are legitimate and made in accordance with DVA’s legislation.

The DVA Chiropractors Schedule of Fees has been updated, effective from 1 February 2019, to reflect Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) limits on referrals for spinal x-rays.

Podiatrists are advised to check the procedures for assessing and prescribing Medical Grade Footwear (MGF) for DVA clients, to support best-practice use and improved patient outcomes. This includes use of the correct prescription form, and fitting and issuing the first pair of shoes to your client before prescribing subsequent pairs.