Closed: 21March 2016
The Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) are considering an application for a new MBS item using Transient Elastography (TE, known by its trade name, Fibroscan) for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
The RACGP are seeking member views and feedback to assist us in developing a response. Specifically, MSAC are seeking feedback on:
- The clinical utility of Fibroscan for patients with hepatitis C or hepatitis B
- The diagnostic information offered by Fibroscan compared to the information provided through other currently available tests. For example, what benefits does Fibroscan offer over other existing diagnostic services? Does the use of Fibroscan change treatment options/regimes for patients?
- Dissemination of the service into gastroenterology and GP practices. Is this service currently offered? And if so, in what type of practices? Would an MBS rebate affect uptake for this service?
The Final Protocol to guide the assessment of transient elastography at 50Hz for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B or C can be viewed.