FAQ – TMS Medicare and Private Health Insurance
What costs are involved with TMS therapy at TMS Erina?
The following services are fully bulk billed for eligible patients:
- Initial Psychiatric TMS Assessment
- Initial TMS treatment course (35 Sessions)
- Maintenance course (15 Sessions)
Self-funding costs
For those who do not meet the Medicare criteria, prices range from $100-$145 per session.
Is TMS covered by Medicare Australia?
Yes, Medicare provides a rebate for those who meet the following eligibility criteria:
- A minimum of 18 years of age.
- Diagnosed with major depressive episode and provide a referral from a GP or psychiatrist
- Failed to experience relief of symptoms after trialling a minimum of two antidepressants
- Have also undertaken psychological therapy (unless inappropriate)
- Have not previously received TMS treatment
For more information about Medicare and TMS treatment please click here.
To find out if TMS is for you, please seek further information from your GP or psychiatrist. As stated above a referral is necessary for TMS treatment.
Is TMS covered by Veteran Affairs or Workcover?
Patients who have their medical expenses covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs or Workcover may have the cost of TMS covered. Contact our staff to discuss your individual situation. We will arrange for an initial appointment to determine if TMS is the right treatment for you.
Do private health insurance companies help with TMS costs?
At this stage private health insurance companies do not cover the costs of outpatient TMS. As the legislation changes, health insurance companies are likely to provide cover for TMS treatment. We recommend that you keep in touch with TMS Erina as new updates arise.
Is TMS a cost-effective form of depression treatment?
TMS may seem expensive but it is considered to be a cost effective treatment alternative. (Please refer to the related article by Voigt, Carpenter, Leuchter “Cost effectiveness of comparing rTMS”). Not only did the article find TMS to be more cost effective than antidepressants. It also found TMS to be clinically more effective for treatment resistant depression.
Can TMS Erina help me to decide if this type of therapy is right for my depression?
Our staff will guide you through all the costs involved before you decide if TMS is right for you. It is important to us that you feel comfortable about the therapy before you start so knowledge is key. They will also provide you with the information you need to know about the treatment and how to get the most out of it. Take advantage of our initial assessment with our psychiatrist to help you decide. Is TMS is right for you? Call us on 02 4314 7000