What a Chronic Disease Management Plan does
A Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP) is a Medicare-funded pathway for people with chronic or long-term health conditions. It involves your GP documenting your condition, goals, and management plan, then coordinating care across allied health providers. Once in place, it gives you access to Medicare rebates for up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year.
The plan is designed for conditions that require ongoing, multidisciplinary care — diabetes, heart disease, chronic respiratory conditions, persistent pain, and many other long-term conditions can qualify.
How the process works
During a telehealth consultation, your GP will take a history of your chronic condition, identify the allied health providers most likely to help (such as dietitians for diabetes, or physiotherapists for osteoarthritis), and create the plan. You receive a copy, and the relevant referrals are issued to your chosen providers.
Reviews are typically recommended every 3–6 months to check progress and update the plan. Follow-up telehealth consultations are bulk billed for eligible Medicare cardholders.
References
- Chronic disease GP Management Plans and Team Care Arrangements — Services Australia
- Chronic disease management — Medicare items — Australian Department of Health and Aged Care
- Chronic disease management — Healthdirect Australia
This content is informational and does not replace individual medical advice. For personal assessment, book a consultation with your GP. In emergencies, call 000.
Last reviewed 16 April 2026. Editorial policy