Understanding Your GP Chronic Condition Management Plan
A clear, practical guide explaining how a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (Care Plan) supports long-term health management. Learn who’s eligible, what’s included, and how Medicare rebates work to coordinate your healthcare team.
🩺 Understanding Your GP Chronic Condition Management Plan
A coordinated approach to long-term health care
🌿 What is a GP Management Plan?
A GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (often called a Care Plan) is a written plan created by you and your General Practitioner to help manage one or more long-term health conditions.
It outlines your health goals, treatments, and the healthcare professionals involved in your care — all working together to keep you well.
👥 Who is it for?
You may be eligible if you have a chronic medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, six months or more.
Examples include:
Diabetes
Heart disease or high blood pressure
Asthma or chronic lung disease
Arthritis or chronic pain
Obesity or metabolic syndrome
📋 What’s included in your plan
Your GP and practice nurse will:
Review your health — including your history, symptoms, and medications
Set clear goals — for example, improving energy, mobility, or blood sugar control
Outline agreed actions — what you’ll do and how your care team can help
List your healthcare supports — such as your GP, dietitian, or exercise physiologist
Plan regular reviews — usually every 3–6 months to track progress
💰 Medicare rebates
If you have a GP Management Plan, your GP can refer you to allied health professionals for support in managing your condition. These referrals allow you to claim Medicare rebates for a set number of visits each calendar year.
Services may include:
Nutrition and weight management
Exercise and mobility programs
Pain management
Chronic disease education and support
Ask your GP which services are included and whether any gap fees apply.
⚖️ How this differs from other care plans and rebates
Plan Type | Who it’s for | Rebate type | Key difference |
GP Chronic Condition Management Plan | Long-term physical or metabolic conditions (e.g. diabetes, arthritis, obesity) | Medicare rebate for allied health visits | Focuses on overall physical health and coordination of care |
Mental Health Care Plan | Diagnosed mental health conditions (e.g. depression, anxiety) | Medicare rebate for psychology sessions | Managed under a different Medicare program; separate from a chronic condition plan |
Eating Disorder Care Plan | Diagnosed eating disorder meeting specific criteria | Medicare rebate for extended dietitian, psychology, and GP sessions | Includes higher number of sessions and requires GP review |
Private Health Insurance | Based on your private cover level | Private health rebate (not Medicare) | Can sometimes be used in addition to or instead of Medicare rebates, but cannot be claimed for the same session |
💬 Why it matters
A Care Plan helps you:
Coordinate your healthcare team
Set realistic, measurable goals
Access subsidised support for lifestyle and wellbeing
Stay proactive in managing your long-term health
📅 What to expect
Book a longer consultation with your GP or nurse
Discuss your health goals and treatment needs
Receive a copy of your plan to keep
Review every 3–6 months to stay on track
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