An update on referral requirements for MBS Better Access

The APS has confirmed an apparent update in the requirements for psychologists regarding the number of sessions specified in a referral. According to advice obtained today, when a referral does not specify the number of services or specifies a number of services above the maximum allowed course of treatment or allowance in the calendar year (including any session the client has already received), the psychologist must attempt to contact the referrer to confirm the required number of sessions. If the psychologist cannot reach the referrer, the psychologist can then use clinical judgement to provide services under the referral.  Detail is outlined in the MBS Online explanatory note MN.6.3.

We’re disappointed by this apparent change and will advocate further for psychologists to be able to use their clinical judgement where the number of sessions is not specified in the referral and remove the need to contact the GP in the first instance.