Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Therapy – updated FAQ

Summary of Items – Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Therapy

Page last updated: 15 September 2022

On 1 November 2021, rTMS therapy was listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) under items 14216, 14217, 14219 and 14220 for the treatment of major depressive disorder.

The Australian Government announced this listing in the 2021-22 Budget with an investment of $288.5 million over four years, following recommendations of the Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC).

Previously, rTMS was not subsidised on the MBS.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) has provided guidance on its website for the following:

  • Guidance on the delivery of Medicare funded rTMS services for hospital inpatient treatment and Type C certification requirements.
  • Information on the RANZCP rTMS training course endorsement process and criteria for assessment by the RANZCP Subcommittee for Continuing Professional Development. Further information about rTMS training requirements are provided in the rTMS MBS Online FAQ below.

Updated Explanatory note TN.1.28 can be found on MBSonline

Frequently asked Questions document can be found below

PDF version FAQ rTMS 1 August 2022 (PDF 270 KB)
Word version FAQ rTMS 1 August 2022 (Word 128 KB)




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