573 - Bulk Billing vs Mixed Billing: Market Dynamics and Solutions for GPs

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dan Wijeratne from Modern Innovations about the evolving landscape of billing and operational efficiency in Australian primary care clinics.

They discuss the recent and upcoming changes to Medicare bulk billing incentives, the challenges faced by general practices in adapting to shifting business models, and how tools like MyGPMPtool are helping clinics manage chronic disease care more effectively.

The conversation also explores the broader impact of technology on patient experience and clinic sustainability.

Listeners will learn how digital tools can streamline workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and support coordinated chronic disease management, allowing practices to deliver higher-quality care while maintaining financial viability.

The discussion highlights practical strategies for both bulk billing and mixed billing clinics to adapt to policy changes and remain resilient in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.

Key Takeaways

🔄 The shift between bulk billing and mixed billing models is having a significant impact on clinic operations, influenced by new Medicare incentives and changing patient demographics.

📝 Effective chronic disease management (CDM) relies heavily on operational efficiency and the adoption of digital tools to streamline care planning, eligibility tracking, and patient engagement.

👩‍⚕️ Clinics are facing challenges in workforce adaptation, particularly in redistributing CDM-related workflows between nurses and GPs as expectations and demands increase.

⏱️ Simple digital process improvements, such as removing paperwork and automating reminders, can result in substantial time and cost savings for clinics.

📈 Modern Innovations is developing new CRM and AI features within MyGPMPtool to further support practice efficiency, patient engagement, and care continuity, including upcoming modules for aged care and advanced patient segmentation.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Introduction and overview of MyGPMP tool with Dan Wijeratne

00:00:43 – Differences between acute and chronic disease management in general practice

00:01:54 – Understanding Medicare item numbers and billing for CDM services

00:03:04 – Changes to CDM workflows post-1 July and impacts on GPs

00:05:22 – How technology addresses administrative burdens and inefficiencies in care planning

00:07:05 – Key features of MyGPMP tool and use of AI for workflow optimisation

00:08:44 – The benefits of streamlined CDM processes for patient outcomes

00:10:24 – Importance of collaborative, cloud-based solutions for multidisciplinary care

00:11:21 – Current priorities and opportunities for GPs in 2025, and market trends

00:13:30 – The future of healthcare technology, CRM systems, and patient engagement

Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.

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