Higher Medicare rebates to cut contraception costs in NSW

The move is part of Australia’s $513.9m (A$792.9m) Women’s Health Package.

From 1 November, rebate increases for intrauterine device (IUD) and contraceptive implant procedures will take effect in New South Wales as part of the Australian Government’s $513.9m (A$792.9m) Women’s Health Package.

The rebate for IUD insertion will rise from $60.81 (A$93.55) to $140.37 (A$215.95), whilst implant insertion will increase from $26.98 (A$41.50) to $65.26 (A$100.40).

Three new Medicare Benefits Schedule items will be introduced to allow nurse practitioners to deliver long-acting reversible contraception services.

In line with this, a new 40 per cent bulk-billing incentive will encourage more health professionals to offer these services.

The Government is also funding free training for health practitioners in the insertion and removal of IUDs and implants through the national AusLARC programme.

A$1 = $0.65