AMA submission to provide feedback on MBS shoulder surgery item changes

The AMA’s submission raises concerns that the proposed shoulder item changes may consolidate distinct shoulder conditions and surgical interventions into single MBS items, under-recognising clinical complexity, creating billing uncertainty and shifting costs to patients. While the AMA supports clinician-led MBS reform that improves clarity and reflects contemporary practice, consolidation must not obscure the work performed. The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has advised the changes include a new item consolidating rotator cuff repair items 48906, 48909 and 48960, a new item for complex rotator cuff repair, and removal of standalone subacromial decompression items 48900, 48903 and 48951 following MSAC application 1711.