GP information and Medicare referrals

This page provides information for GPs and other authorised referrers. Eligibility and claiming remain subject to current Medicare requirements.

What makes a referral valid?

The referral must be in writing, signed and dated, and include the client’s identifying details, symptoms or diagnosis, current medications, number of requested services, and whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan or Psychiatrist Assessment and Management Plan exists. It should be addressed to Matthew Eden or Eden Psychological Services.

The plan is not the referral

A Mental Health Treatment Plan is not itself the referral. A copy of the plan normally need not be sent to Eden; the written referral must state whether a plan has been prepared.

Before the first Medicare consultation

Matthew must receive and retain the valid written referral before the first Medicare consultation. Eden asks that it be provided at least two business days before a tentatively held appointment. This is an administrative readiness requirement, not a Medicare cancellation penalty. Private appointments do not require a referral.

Number of services

An initial Better Access referral is for a maximum of six individual services. A written report is required at completion of the initial course and after any subsequent course.

Correspondence with the referring practitioner

After an accepted Medicare referral, an acknowledgement can be sent to the referring practitioner where the client has authorised this. Required course-completion reports are provided at the relevant point. Any additional, non-required correspondence is discussed with the client and requires appropriate consent.

Sending referral documents

Please contact Eden before sending referral or approval documents so a safe method can be confirmed. Ordinary email is not appropriate for detailed sensitive health, identifying or funding information. General questions can be directed to 0494 817 870 or referrals@edenpsych.com.au.

Suitability and acceptance

Receipt of a referral does not guarantee acceptance or an appointment. Each referral is reviewed for suitability, capacity and the client’s needs. Eden is not a crisis service.