Brett Mason (Queensland, Liberal Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health and Ageing) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to thank Senator McLucas and Senator Sterle for their contributions to this debate. On behalf of the government, I acknowledge the opposition’s support for the Health Insurance Amendment (Diagnostic Imaging Accreditation) Bill 2007. This bill establishes a framework under Medicare for the introduction of an accreditation scheme for practices providing diagnostic imaging services covered by the Radiology Quality and Outlays Memorandum of Understanding. Patients should have timely access to high-quality radiology services. From 1 July next year, accreditation against objective and realistic standards will become a condition for facilities providing Medicare eligible diagnostic imaging services. The impetus for accreditation is not a reflection on the quality of services now being provided. However, accreditation provides government and the community with extra assurance that the 12 million or so diagnostic imaging services supported by Medicare, at a cost of $1.2 billion annually, are provided by organisations that are able to meet specified standards. The presence of many senators in this chamber signifies the importance that the government attaches to this bill.

The government is working closely with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists and the Australian Diagnostic Imaging Association, the relevant industry body, to develop a scheme that is practical and workable and that will minimise the cost to each practice. We are seeking expert advice on the standards through our extensive consultation with a wide range of bodies and a wide range of groups. The transitional arrangements in the bill will ensure that these practices will have ample time to prepare for the accreditation process. The bill also includes a mechanism to ensure that any adverse decision regarding a practice’s accreditation status will be the subject of an independent review, and so no-one will lose access to Medicare without a full and a fair process. The government is aware that there are robust discussions going on between the college and the industry on the development of the regime. We appreciate their commitment and trust that they will be able to work in collaboration with relevant professional medical groups to reach an agreement on the nature and structure of the accreditation regime. On behalf of the government and the Minister for Health and Ageing, I restate our willingness to assist the college and industry to meet the 1 July 2008 commencement date. Early agreement on the accreditation regime will ensure the necessary planning and implementation arrangements are completed in good time. I commend the bill to the Senate.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.