A chronic disease management plan enables your GP to plan and coordinate your health care. This can assist you in gaining access to services that are required for ongoing maintenance of your health issues. Management plans are available to those who have a terminal condition or a condition that has been there or is likely to be there for more than 6 months. This includes diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s and Osteoarthritis. You will need to discuss your eligibility with your GP prior to obtaining a management plan. If you are deemed eligible then you will require an appointment with your practice nurse and GP.
A chronic disease management plan has the following benefits:
- Promotes healthy living
- Identifies your health care needs
- Provides ongoing support
One of the benefits of a management plan is that it entitles you to five Medicare funded visits to services such as physiotherapy, podiatry, exercise physiology, dietetics and more. Regular access to these services can be a fundamental part of ongoing care for some chronic health conditions. These services can be expensive to access privately so the management plan is beneficial in enhancing accessibility and minimising out of pocket expenses. Regular reviews are required with your practice nurse and GP.