A “Collaborative Arrangement” is a legislated requirement for midwives providing care in a Medicare-funded capacity. Whilst Midwives Australia recognises the importance of collaboration in the provision of care; we view the legislated requirement as a point of contention between midwives and doctors. However, it is vital for midwives who are providing Medicare rebated care to have a collaborative arrangement in place for any care attracting a Medicare rebate.
Midwives Australia is well placed to provide practical advice about how to establish and maintain a collaborative arrangement.
If women accessing your services are to receive a Medicare rebate for the care you provide, you will have to have a “collaborative arrangement”.
Please see the Commonwealth Department of Health pages about Medicare Benefits Schedule.