Notice of variation to the Common Form of Undertaking for Participating Optometrists

In accordance with Section 23A of the Health Insurance Act 1973, I, as delegate, have approved the revised Common Form of Undertaking for Participating Optometrists.

The Common Form of Undertaking is being varied due to changes to the optometry arrangements announced in the 2014-15 Budget. As part of the Budget measure for optometry services, the Government announced that the charging cap that currently applies to optometrists accessing the Medicare Benefits Schedule is removed, enabling optometrists to set their own fees in a similar manner to other health providers.

The Common Form of Undertaking has been amended by removing references in relation to fee restrictions. The effect of this amendment is that optometrists will be able to set their own fees. 

Additionally, the Common Form of Undertaking has been amended to enable optometrists to be notified of any amendments to the Common Form of Undertaking by publication in the Government Notices Gazette and by updating relevant references.

Details of the amendments made to the Common Form of Undertaking for Participating Optometrists are outlined in the Explanatory Statement, accompanying the Common Form of Undertaking at http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Series/F2005L03325.

The revised Common Form of Undertaking takes effect on 1 January 2015.

Dr Megan Keaney

Acting Assistant Secretary and Medical Advisor

Medical Specialist Services Branch

Medical Benefits Division

Department of Health