Effective from 1 November 2023, Medicare is introducing new rebates for essential carrier screening tests. This initiative is designed to provide comprehensive support to individuals planning pregnancy or those already expecting, along with their reproductive partners. Patients will be able to claim a Medicare rebate for carrier screening to determine carrier status of selected genetic carrier screen tests. 

What tests are covered?

1. Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
2. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
3. Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)

These tests can be used for people who are planning pregnancy or who are already pregnant and their reproductive partners and are important in making informed reproductive choices.

Rebate details

For the 3 above listed tests, testing can now be done with no out of pocket costs for those eligible.

This rebate will also support the accessibility of more expanded genetic carrier screening options. If you would like to do a more expanded carrier screen covering more genes including those eligible as described by the rebate, the value of approximately $340 will apply, and the remaining would be out of pocket.  

Please note that this rebate is available for one test per lifetime.

To be eligible for the rebate, sample collection for genetic carrier screening (whether by blood test or Saliva) will need to be completed on or after the 1^st November 2023.

Your Specialist's Recommendation:

Based on your specific needs and medical history, your dedicated specialist will guide you on the most suitable test to ensure you receive personalised and effective care.