Extra security checks when verifying Medicare card numbers
GPs are reminded that the Department of Human Services (DHS) is implementing the recommendations of the Independent Review of Health Providers’ Access to Medicare Card Numbers.
GPs will now be asked some additional security questions as part of the security check to access the patient verification service through the provider phone enquiry line. The additional questions are one of the measures introduced to strengthen the security of Medicare card information. When calling, GPs will be asked for identifying information for DHS to confirm the identity of the caller.
Requirements to ensure you have the patient’s consent before you seek access to their Medicare card number has not changed. Administrative employees must also have the authority to request the information on behalf of a health care provider.
Instead of calling the provider enquiry line, you can access real-time Patient Verification Services online through the Health Professional Online Services. For more information go to www.humanservices.gov.au/hpos.
