Varicose veins - Minor amendments to MBS and Health Regulations

As you would know, a new rule (113A) was introduced to the Health Insurance (General Medical Services Table) Regulations (GMST) on 1 September 2007 to clarify item 35321 cannot be billed for endovenous laser treatment (ELT). From 1 May 2009, existing rule 113A will be expanded to clarify that radiofrequency diathermy/ablation is also prohibited under item 35321, and that ELT and/or radiofrequency diathermy/ablation is also prohibited under varicose vein items 32500 to 32517.

In addition, from 1 May 2009, item 35321 will include a minor amendment to fully reflect requirements under rule 113A; specifically that item 35321 cannot be billed for varicose veins.

As you would be aware, there is currently no Medicare coverage for ELT. You may be aware that the Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) evaluated ELT in 2008 and recommended it for public funding. The Department is currently working collaboratively with the profession to progress the possible MBS listing of an item for ELT.