16 August 2019


Support for GPs ahead of introduction of new Medicare item number for severe and complex eating disorders

GPs are likely to be one of the first health professionals a person with an eating disorder will engage. Eating disorders are associated with significant, wide-ranging medical complications that affect every major organ of the body, and early identification is imperative in transforming the health outcomes of a patient living with an eating disorder.

Commencing on Friday 1 November 2019, a new MBS item number will be introduced for the treatment of eating disorders in Australia. This item number will support the role of GPs in prevention, identification, management and referral of patients with eating disorders in primary care.

The National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NECD) has developed Eating disorders: A professional resource for general practitioners to support GPs and practice staff to understand eating disorders and implement best practice care for patients and their families. The NECD has also developed free, online modules to help educate GPs in the screening, assessment and referral of patients living with an eating disorder.

Visit the NECD website for more information on training and professional development courses for GPs, including additional evidence-based resources and guides on eating disorders.


RACGP eHealth webinar series: Privacy and managing health information in general practice

General practice has a fundamental role in ensuring the privacy of patient health information.

It is important practices understand the current legislative framework for the management of health information at both a practice level and when sharing information-using systems, such as My Health Record.

This month's webinars are designed to support GPs and practice teams with their understanding of privacy obligations and will provide guidance on how to protect patient information.

A number of sessions are available. Visit the RACGP website to register and view previous webinar recordings. Webinars are accredited for two Category 2 RACGP QI&CPD points and are free of charge for all participants.


RACGP Rural: Faculty involvement and skill development

RACGP Rural is seeking expressions of interest from members who would like to work more closely with the faculty and further develop skills in the following areas:

  • mentoring or teaching
  • promoting the benefits of rural general practice
  • providing expertise on committees.

In return, members will have the opportunity to build upon existing skills and develop new skills, broaden professional networks, add achievements to resumes and make a tangible difference to rural and remote health.

Email rural@racgp.org.au with details of interests and areas of expertise by Friday 30 August 2019 to get involved.


Media enquiries

Journalists and media outlets seeking comment and information from the RACGP should contact:

John Ronan

Senior Media Advisor