Assignment of Medicare Benefits for Simplified Billing

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is preparing for the upcoming changes to Assignment Medicare of Benefit (AOB) for services claimed through simplified billing, which will commence on 1 July, 2026. 

These changes relate to services provided as aprt of hospital treatment and hospital-substitute treatment for patients covered by a private health insurance policy and where the Medicare benefit is received by a private health insurer or an approved billing agent before being paid to a doctor, hospital, or other health professional.

As part of their readiness activities, the Department hosted an information session on 11 February, 2026 and is now holding a follow up information session for Practice Management professionals to ensure there is a clear and consistent understanding of the changes, and to outline what will be required from healthcare providers as these changes are implemented.

They are seeking to engage with Practice Management professionals or those who manage billing on behalf of surgeons, anaesthetists, and other medical providers, specifically those who provide in-hospital treatment to private patients.

This session will also provide an opportunity to clarify any requirements under the new arrangements and any areas of uncertainty.

The session will be held on Tuesday, 31 March, commencing at 1pm AEDT and will run for approximately 60 minutes.

Register to attend via email: AssignmentofBenefit@health.gov.au