GPV advises:
The new referral pathway for GPs for children under 13 years where autism or any other pervasive developmental disorder may be apparent or where assessment is needed. The role of the GP is to refer to a Consultant Psychiatrist or Consultant Paediatrician who is able to diagnose and manage the patient, and can refer the child to Allied Health Professionals for assistance with the assessment (up to 4 services) and children under 15 years for treatment (up to 20 sessions). There will be new Medicare items for general psychologists, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists for treatment services for these children. Thus, the GP has a referral role only, not a management role for the patient. In summary:
• There is no requirement for the GP to do a GP MH plan to make this referral to the Consultant Psychiatrist or Paediatrician.
• There is no new Medicare item for the GP in the Autism package.
Refer to the FACSIA for information on their components of the Autism package, especially regarding the Autism Advisors, to assist GPs direct families to appropriate advice and assessment services.
Please see www.health.gov.au/autism and the link to the FACSIA webpage for more information.
