Medicare Changes for Allied Health Plans

What’s Changed With Chronic Health Plans?

If you’ve ever seen your podiatrist under a Medicare chronic health plan, you may have noticed some changes. These plans, once called Chronic Disease Management Plans or Care Plans, are now called GP Chronic Condition Management Plans.

The good news? The process and benefits are mostly the same. You’ll still see your GP, discuss your health needs, and - if you qualify - get a referral to a podiatrist (or other allied health providers).

What This Means for You

      •     Same support, new name: The title has changed, but the funding support through Medicare hasn’t disappeared.

      •     Podiatry access remains: If you have ongoing foot issues like diabetes-related foot problems, heel pain, or arthritis, your GP can still include podiatry in your plan.

      •     Up to five visits per year: Eligible patients may receive up to five Medicare-subsidised podiatry visits each calendar year.

      •     Better team care: The updated plan wording highlights teamwork between your GP and allied health providers like podiatrists, physio's, or dietitian's.

Why this matters:

For people living with long-term conditions such as diabetes, chronic heel pain, peripheral neuropathy, or arthritis, having affordable access to podiatry can make a huge difference. Regular podiatry care helps prevent complications, reduces pain, and keeps you moving.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan, chat with your GP at your next visit. If you already have one, rest assured your podiatry care continues as before - just under a new name.