Up, up and away: The growth of after-hours MBS claims

作者：de Graaff Barbara^*; Nelson Mark; Neil Amanda

来源：Australian Family Physician, 2017, 46(6): 407-411.

Background and objective
Media reports suggest that growth in urgent, after-hours Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) claims has coincided with an increasing number of after-hours medical deputising services (AHMDSs). This article assesses these claims in the context of an increasing presence of AHMDSs.
Method
Retrospective analysis of MBS claims data for general practitioner (GP) after-hours items from 2010-11 to 2015-16 was conducted. The Tasmanian experience is presented as a case study.
Results
The number of claims was greatest for MBS item number 597 (urgent, sociable after-hours consultations), increasing by 170% over the study period. For jurisdictions with dates identified for the introduction of AHMDSs, dramatic growth in per capita claims were observed: 1270% for the Australian Capital Territory, 485% for Tasmania and 150% for the Northern Territory. For Tasmania, no decrease in emergency department presentations was observed.
Discussion
Rapid increases in after-hours claims for MBS item number 597 have coincided with the introduction of AHMDSs in three jurisdictions. The impact on patient outcomes and equitable resource distribution requires attention.

• 出版日期2017-6
• 单位河北医科大学