Medicare rebates for chronic migraine treatment*
At our clinics you may be entitled to two Medicare rebates when you are clinically assessed and treated by one of our neurologists.
The consultation, where your history will be taken and you will be clinically examined, is covered by Medicare item number 110 with a rebate amount of $128.30. For subsequent consultations the Medicare item number is 116 (contact for rebate amount).
The procedure for treating chronic migraine with injections of the PBS listed medication also has a Medicare item number, 18377 (contact for rebate amount).
Each clinic is free to charge their own rates for the clinical consultation and procedure so it is good to check what these are so that you are aware of any "gap" payment.
Chronic migraine medication covered by the PBS*
The medication has been available on the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) for the treatment of chronic migraine since March 2014. This means that the whole cost of the medication, normally around $900 for chronic migraine, is covered by the government*. It is strictly regulated:
- Patients must meet the criteria of the diagnosis of chronic migraine (over at least 6 months): average of 15 or more headache days per month, with at least 8 days of migraine;
- Patients must be an adult;
- Patients must have experienced an inadequate response, intolerance, or an contraindication to at least 3 prophylactic migraine medications e.g. propranolol, amitriptyline, methysergide, pizotifen, cyproheptadine or topiramate.
- Patients who have medication overuse headache must be appropriately managed.
- Only Neurologists can access the medication through the PBS for chronic migraines.
For further information visit the following links:
- MBS Online (Medicare Benefits Schedule)
- Therapeutic Procedures for Chronic Migraine (MBS)
- Services Australia - Highly Specialised Drugs
Get frequent migraines? Act now!
If you or a member of your family suffer from frequent migraines then we may be able to help. Simply contact us to book an appointment for assessment and treatment at one of our clinics (or if you have any questions).
End your suffering and stop chronic migraines with the experts
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
*Subject to change and availability. All information provided for guidance only and as such accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Please contact us for the latest information or if you have any questions.
