Do I Qualify for a Chronic Disease Management Plan?
How to Get a Chronic Disease Management Plan in Australia
If you have a chronic medical condition, you may be eligible for Medicare-rebated allied health services through a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM). This plan helps coordinate your care and provides access to subsidised treatment from allied health professionals, such as psychologists, physiotherapists, and dietitians.
What Is a Chronic Disease Management Plan?
A CDM Plan is designed for people with a medical condition lasting six months or longer, such as diabetes, chronic fatigue, POTS, cancer, arthritis, chronic pain, ADHD, or endometriosis. There are two types of CDM plans:
✅ GP Management Plan (GPMP): A personalised care plan outlining your health needs, treatment goals, and services provided by your GP.
✅ Team Care Arrangements (TCAs): Required if you need treatment from two or more allied health professionals as part of your ongoing care.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a CDM Plan
1️⃣ Book an Appointment with Your GP
Schedule a long consultation so your GP can assess your condition and eligibility.
Your GP will discuss your health concerns and determine if a GPMP and/or TCAs are appropriate for you.
2️⃣ Developing Your Plan
If eligible, your GP will create a GP Management Plan, identifying your care needs, treatment goals, and self-management strategies.
If you require treatment from two or more allied health providers, a Team Care Arrangement (TCA) will also be developed to coordinate your care.
3️⃣ Referrals for Allied Health Services
If you have both a GPMP and TCAs, you may be eligible for up to 5 Medicare-rebated allied health sessions per calendar year.
Your GP will provide referral letters for the specific allied health professionals involved in your care.
4️⃣ Booking Your Appointments
You can now schedule appointments with the allied health professionals listed in your referral, including Dr. Azhani for psychological support.
Please email your CDM referral to our Practice Manager, Brent, to streamline Medicare rebates.
5️⃣ Reviewing Your Plan
Your CDM plan should be reviewed every 6 to 12 months with your GP to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
Important Things to Know
✅ CDM plans reset every calendar year, meaning you can access a new plan if needed.
✅ The 5 allied health sessions must be shared across all referred providers (e.g., a psychologist, physiotherapist, and dietitian).
✅ Medicare does not cover the full session fee, but the rebate helps reduce out-of-pocket costs.
✅ The rebate for CDM-referred sessions is lower than that of a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), so there may be a higher out-of-pocket expense.
✅ You can choose any allied health professional who accepts Medicare referrals, including those in private practice.
✅ CDM plans must be reviewed regularly, and your GP will determine if ongoing referrals are needed.
A Chronic Disease Management Plan can help you access the care you need while reducing costs. Speak with your GP to start the process today.
