Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy on the MBS

From 1 November 2021, new items for Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) therapy services will be added to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for eligible patients with diagnosed medication-resistant major depressive disorder. The four new items will make MBS subsidised rTMS therapy available for patients over the age of 18 years who have tried at least two classes of antidepressants and remain unwell, and have not received rTMS therapy previously.

At introduction, MBS rebates will be available for the prescription and delivery of up to 35 rTMS sessions in an initial treatment course, and the prescription and delivery of a retreatment course of up to 15 sessions for patients who have showed improvement in an initial but subsequently relapsed.

Further information about the listing of rTMS therapy on the MBS is detailed in the below factsheet.

Factsheet on Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation PDF (137 KB)
Factsheet on Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Word (79 KB)

Disclaimer:
Please note that the information provided is a general guide only and subject to revision. It is ultimately the responsibility of treating practitioners to use their professional judgment to determine the most clinically appropriate services to provide, and then to ensure that any services billed to Medicare fully meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the legislation.

To find out more or subscribe for updates visit www.mbsonline.gov.au.