Medicare is changing—and it's good news for people with chronic conditions
From 1 July 2025, Medicare is increasing rebates to better support patients living with any chronic condition—and it’s about time.
This change recognises something GPs have known for years: proactive, regular care keeps people well, out of hospital, and in control of their health. At Walker Street Doctors, we see this as a long-overdue step forward—an acknowledgment from the government that primary care matters.
What’s Changing?
Medicare will now support quarterly care planning visits with your GP for the management of chronic conditions. These are structured, purposeful appointments that happen every three months, designed to:
- Review your progress
- Adjust your care plan
- Monitor medications, symptoms, and test results
- Coordinate other supports (like allied health)
- Empower you to stay in the driver’s seat of your care
And importantly: these visits come with increased Medicare rebates, so it’s easier for you to access the regular, high-quality care you deserve.
Why It Matters
For too long, chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, asthma, arthritis, and others have been treated as static problems. But we know that your health changes over time—and your care needs to keep up.
These new quarterly planning visits reflect a deeper understanding of how long-term health really works:
- They’re preventive, not reactive
- They support shared decision-making with your GP
- They put you in the co-pilot seat—with your doctor as your guide
- They help avoid hospital stays and flare-ups
- And they’re part of a nationwide push to reduce the growing healthspan/lifespan gap
Who’s Eligible?
Anyone with a chronic condition that’s lasted (or is expected to last) 6 months or more. That includes:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Lung conditions (like COPD or asthma)
- Osteoporosis
- Depression and anxiety
- Chronic pain
- Kidney disease
- Autoimmune conditions
- Many others
If you're unsure whether you qualify, just ask your GP, we’re here to help.
Talk to Your GP About Quarterly Planning Ahead
You don’t need to be in crisis to check in. In fact, the best time to plan is before things become urgent.
If you’re living with a chronic condition, these quarterly care visits can help you:
- Feel more confident managing your health
- Keep your care plan current
- Coordinate allied health supports
- Set and achieve goals
- Stay well, longer
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Speak with your GP or Nurse Lyca about scheduling your quarterly care planning visits.
Together, we’ll build a roadmap that supports your wellbeing—not just now, but into the future.
Appointments available now at Walker Street Doctors
