Inclusion of Dysport in MBS item 18360 for treatment of focal spasticity

Dysport - amend MBS item 18360 - Factsheet (PDF 157 KB)
Dysport - amend MBS item 18360- Factsheet (DOC 516 KB)

What are the changes?

From 1 November 2018, MBS item 18360 will include the drug Clostridium Botulinum Type A Toxin Haemagglutinin Complex (Dysport) as a drug that can be administered for the treatment for moderate to severe focal spasticity.

Why are the changes being made?

An application requesting that Clostridium Botulinum Type A Toxin Haemagglutinin Complex (Dysport) be included in the descriptor for MBS item 18360 was considered by the Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) Executive and the requested change was supported. The MSAC's recommendation was accepted by Government. More information on the MSAC process can be found at the MSAC website.

What does this mean for providers?

Eligible providers can continue to access the Medicare item for this service, which will now include the administration of Clostridium Botulinum Type A Toxin Haemagglutinin Complex (Dysport).

There will be no changes to other requirements for eligibility for this service, as outlined in the current item descriptor.

What does this mean for patients?

Patients will continue to receive this Medicare rebateable service and now have the option of being administered Botulinum Toxin Type A Purified Neurotoxin Complex (Botox) or Clostridium Botulinum Type A Toxin Haemagglutinin Complex (Dysport) for their treatment.

When will this change be reviewed?

The Department of Health regularly reviews the usage of new and amended MBS items in consultation with the profession.

All MBS items may be subject to compliance processes and activities, including random and targeted audits which may require a provider to submit information about the services claimed.

Significant variation from forecasted expenditure may warrant review and amendment of fees, and incorrect use of MBS items can result in penalties including the health professional being asked to repay monies that have been incorrectly received.

Where can I find more information?

The full item descriptor and information on other changes to the MBS can be found at the MBS Online website or by calling the Department of Human Services on 132 150.

Amended item

(Draft wording of items to be finalised through regulatory amendments)