Tasmanian children and young people will benefit from the Albanese Government's decision to expand Medicare coverage for life‑changing speech pathology services.
Around 8,000 young Tasmanians under 25 years of age with severe speech and language disorders, including stuttering, speech sound disorders, and cleft lip and palate are now eligible for greater subsidised treatment.
Previously, these patients were only able to access five chronic condition management sessions a year across MBS allied health professions.
Now, eligible patients receive Medicare rebates for up to eight assessment and 20 treatment sessions with a range of allied health professionals, including speech pathologists.
Improved access to speech pathology services can significantly improve communication, participation and wellbeing, helping children and young people build confidence and creating better opportunities for the future.
Patients can access the suite of services through referral to a speech pathologist or other eligible allied health professional by their GP, specialist or consultant physician.
The Albanese Government is investing a total of $74.9 million nationally to improve access to speech pathology services.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White:
"Expanding access to speech pathology services through Medicare can change lives, helping young Tasmanians get the support they need early and close to home.
"For Tasmanian families, access to Medicare rebates will ease financial pressure and provide assurance that their children can get the support they need to thrive.
"Speech and language support can make a real difference to a child's confidence, their learning and how they connect with their friends and family.
"Medicare has always been about care, not cost and the Albanese Government is strengthening Medicare to make health care fairer and more affordable."
Quotes attributable Deputy Chair of RACGP Tasmania, Dr Tim Jones:
"There is no greater impact that we can make on a child's positive development than ensuring they can be heard and understood.
"This initiative will enhance equitable access to speech therapy for Tasmanian families."
Quotes attributable to Director of Clinical Services, Hobart Communication Clinic Helen Hall:
"Communication is a key foundation of learning, social connection, and wellbeing; these updates are a vital start to ensuring every child has the support they need to thrive."
"This increased access helps children build the independence, advocacy, and inclusion skills essential for their future employment and participation in every part of life."
