GP Care Plan Dietitian Referral
What it is: A GP Care Plan Dietitian Referral is a referral from your GP to see a dietitian as part of a chronic disease management plan (GPMP + TCA). This can also apply for those needing a DVA Dietitian Referral or NDIS Dietitian Referral.
Eligibility: You must have a chronic medical condition (e.g. diabetes, obesity, heart disease) to qualify for these referrals.
Number of sessions: You can access up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year, which can be shared across all allied health professionals, including dietitians.
Rebate: You receive a Medicare rebate of $61.80 per session for your GP Care Plan Dietitian Referral.
Cost: Telehealth sessions will be bulk billed, meaning there is no cost to you. For face-to-face sessions, you will pay the gap between the provider’s fee and the rebate.
Referral required: Your GP must complete a care plan and provide a written referral for each service, whether it's for a private dietitian appointment or any other allied health professional.
DVA Dietitian Referral
What it is:
A DVA Dietitian Referral is a recommendation from a GP or specialist that allows eligible DVA Gold or White Card holders to consult a dietitian under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) health program.
Eligibility:
Gold Card holders: Fully eligible for clinically necessary dietitian services, regardless of the condition.
White Card holders: Eligible if the service relates to their accepted service-related condition.
Number of sessions:
Typically, 6 initial sessions per calendar year can be provided. This can be extended up to 12 sessions or more based on clinical need, with additional sessions requiring justification and approval by DVA.
Cost:
There is no out-of-pocket cost (no gap fee) for the veteran. Dietitians bill DVA directly using DVA item numbers, making it accessible for those who need a GP Care Plan Dietitian Referral.
Referral process:
A D904 referral form (or equivalent written referral) is completed by the GP for the DVA Dietitian Referral. This referral is usually valid for 12 months or for the specified number of sessions. For those considering other options, a Private Dietitian Appointment or an NDIS Dietitian Referral may also be suitable alternatives.
NDIS Dietitian Referral
What it is:
Access to dietitian services funded through an NDIS plan, for eligible participants with a disability-related nutritional need. This can also complement other options like a DVA Dietitian Referral or a GP Care Plan Dietitian Referral for individuals seeking specialized dietary support.
Eligibility:
Must be an NDIS participant with a current, approved plan. Dietitian services must be related to the participant’s disability and included under their plan goals.
Services are usually funded under:
Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living
Or sometimes Core Supports, depending on the participant's goals and funding flexibility.
Number of sessions:
The number of sessions depends on the funding allocated in the plan and how it is managed (plan-managed, or self-managed). Frequency and duration are based on clinical need and funding availability, which can also apply to a Private Dietitian Appointment if needed.
Cost:
Sessions are fully covered under NDIS if funding is available — no out-of-pocket cost to the participant. Dietitians charge according to the NDIS price guide (currently around $193.99/hour, subject to updates).
Referral process:
No GP referral is required. A service agreement is established directly between the participant (or their nominee) and the dietitian. The dietitian may request a copy of the NDIS plan goals or a support coordinator’s contact.
Private Dietitian Appointment
What it is:
An individual can book a private dietitian appointment without needing a GP referral, which is known as a self-referral.
Eligibility:
Anyone can access private dietitian services — there are no specific eligibility criteria. This service is suitable for general nutrition advice, weight management, sports nutrition, digestive issues, food intolerances, and more. Additionally, clients may seek DVA Dietitian referrals, GP Care Plan Dietitian referrals, or NDIS Dietitian referrals if applicable.
Number of sessions:
Sessions are flexible — the number and frequency are determined by personal goals and clinical needs. No annual session limits apply.
Cost:
Private fees typically range from $110 to $150 per session, depending on duration and whether it is an initial or review session. Note that there is no Medicare rebate unless you are under a care plan or other program. Clients may also use private health insurance with extras cover; rebate amounts vary depending on the insurer and level of cover. Some funds may require a minimum waiting period before claiming.
Referral process:
No referral is needed for a private dietitian appointment — clients can contact the dietitian directly to book.
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