19AA Explained
19AA, it can be pretty confusing, right? Don’t worry, this blog will help you understand the restriction better and who it does and doesn’t affect.
WHAT IS 19AA?
Section 19AA of the Health Insurance Act 1973 recognises and supports General Practice as a vocational specialty. It also provides a framework for achieving long-term improvements in the quality of Doctors working in Australia.
WHO IS RESTRICTED BY 19AA?
From 16 June 2021, a Medical Practitioner’s access to Medicare is determined by their continued registration status with AHPRA.
From 1 November 1996 to 15 June 2021, all non-VR GPs who held Medical Registration on or after 1 November 1996 are restricted by 19AA if they are citizens or permanent residents.
Medical Practitioners who do not have Fellowship with RACGP or ACRRM and were registered before 1 November 1996 will also be subject to Section 19AA of the Act if:
On 1 November 1996, they had not completed intern or supervised training.
On or after 1 November 1996, they were not permanent residents or Australian citizens within the meaning of the Migration Act 1958.
Temporary residents or Citizens of New Zealand are subject to Section 19AA if they were first registered with a medical board in Australia before 1 November 1996. However, if these doctors hold an exemption under Section 19AB of the Act, they will also be exempt from the requirements of Section 19AA.
From 2022 all General Practitioners hoping to achieve Fellowship with RACGP or ACRRM will be required to join a training program to be eligible to sit the Fellowship exams.
WHAT IF I DON’T WANT TO JOIN A 3GA PROGRAM?
GPs who do not achieve Fellowship with the RACGP or ACRRM and are not on a 3GA program cannot access A1 rebates. Therefore, they will be required to bill under the non-specialist A2 rates.
