Clarification of eligibility for PIP teaching payments
In response to recent member concerns, the AMA has sought clarification from the Department of Health (DoH) regarding eligibility for Practice Incentive Program teaching payments for practices that receive support via Rural Clinical Schools. The DoH advised that these practices, which are funded by the Australian Government under the Rural Clinical Training and Support (RCTS) program, are considered eligible for PIP teaching payments.
The PIP teaching payment guidelines outline that practices are ineligible for PIP teaching payments if ‘the supervising GP is paid for teaching activities through other Australian Government funded teaching programs’. This restriction is in place to ensure that the Australian Government does not make multiple payments to a practice for the same activity.
The Department recognises that practices that receive payments or support via third parties that are funded by the Australian Government should not necessarily be ineligible for PIP teaching payments and has undertaken to consider these on a case-by-case basis where not clear.
The Department has provided clarification to the Department of Human Services (DHS) on this matter.
Practices requiring further information on the PIP teaching payment should refer to the PIP teaching payment guidelines or contact the Department of Human Services via email at pip@humanservices.gov.au or phone on 1800 222 032.
