What if your next chronic condition management plan appointment didn’t mean a trip to the clinic?
From 1 November 2026, that may be possible. Medicare is adding phone appointments for preparing and reviewing a plan. That means some of your care can fit around work, family and travel time. Also, a new Medicare Healthy Kids Check for 3-year-olds starts on the same day.
This guide explains how both changes work and how to get ready.
What Is a Chronic Condition Management Plan?
A chronic condition is a health problem that has lasted, or is likely to last, six months or longer. Diabetes, asthma, heart disease and arthritis are common examples.
A GP chronic condition management plan is a written plan you build with your GP. It sets out your health goals, your medicines and the people who help care for you.
You may have heard older names, such as a GP management plan or team care arrangement. Since 1 July 2025, one plan has replaced both. If your GP refers you, it may also open the door to Medicare-rebated visits with allied health providers. Examples include a dietitian or physiotherapist.
What Is Changing for Phone Appointments?
Until now, these appointments have been available in person or by video. From 1 November 2026, new Medicare items let a GP prepare or review a plan by phone, as well. The RACGP has welcomed the change, noting that reviews in particular can suit a remote appointment where it is appropriate.
Just a reminder that the plan isn’t a one-off because your GP can still review it every three months if needed. That’s where a phone appointment may help most.
At Meroo Street Family Practice, all of our GPs will offer phone appointments for plans and reviews from 1 November. As with our other phone consultations, they are available to existing patients.
How a Phone Consultation GP Appointment Works
Your GP will decide whether a phone appointment suits you. Some visits still need to happen in person, such as when you need an examination or test. Your GP will let you know.
To get the most from your call, it helps to prepare a few things first:
- Choose a quiet, private space where you can talk freely
- Keep your phone nearby and off silent around your booked time
- Have your current medicine list ready
- Gather recent test results and any letters from specialists
- Write down your questions and any changes in how you feel
Your GP will go through the next steps at the end of the call. Jot them down so you know what happens next. This may include a blood test, a referral or a follow-up visit.
What Is the Medicare Healthy Kids Check?
The Medicare Healthy Kids Check is a new health assessment for 3-year-olds, and it starts on 1 November 2026. It is part of the Government’s Thriving Kids initiative. The aim is to notice early signs of developmental delay or neurodevelopmental differences, and to link families with support. Each child can have the check once, and they need to be eligible for Medicare.
Children grow and learn at different rates, so it’s natural to wonder how your little one is going. Milestone guides can help, and this check gives you a chance to talk it through with your GP.
At our practice, the 3-year-old health check is a face-to-face appointment. You book it by calling our reception team on (02) 4421 4655 because it can’t be booked online.
What Happens at a 3-Year-Old Health Check?
Your GP looks at your child’s overall health, growth and development. According to the MBS factsheet, the check includes:
- A chat about your child’s health history, immunisations, behaviour and milestones
- Questions about family life, care arrangements and early learning or childcare
- Questions about food, activity, screen use, sleep and toilet habits
- A basic physical check of eyesight, hearing, teeth and gums, plus height and weight
- Advice for you, and referrals if your child needs extra support
Your GP will also offer you a written report. It may help to bring your child’s Blue Book, if you have one, along with a list of questions.
When to See a GP
You don’t need to wait for a scheduled check if something is worrying you. Book a visit if:
- Your symptoms change or become harder to manage
- You’re not sure how your plan is going, or you think a review is due
- You’re concerned about your child’s speech, behaviour, hearing or vision
- Your child has lost a skill they once had
NSW Health’s 3-year checklist can help you decide what to raise with your GP. In an emergency, such as chest pain or severe difficulty breathing, call 000.
Care That Fits Your Family’s Routine
From 1 November 2026, a chronic condition management plan can be prepared or reviewed by phone. The new Medicare Healthy Kids Check is also open to 3-year-olds. Here is where to start, for you or your child:
For you: If you live with a long-term condition, learn more about our chronic condition management service. Our guide on how your GP can support you is a helpful next read.
Call our reception team on (02) 4421 4655 to ask about a phone appointment. If you prefer to come in, you can still book online for an in-person visit.
For your child: If your little one is turning 3, see our paediatric healthcare page. When you’re ready, call (02) 4421 4655 to book the check with one of our GPs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Have a Phone Appointment for a Chronic Condition Management Plan?
Yes, from 1 November our GPs will offer phone appointments to prepare and review plans for existing patients. Your GP will decide whether a phone appointment suits your situation. Some people may still need to come in, for example when an examination or test is needed. Call our reception team to ask what’s right for you.
How Often Is a Chronic Condition Management Plan Reviewed?
Your GP can review your plan every three months if clinically needed. To keep Medicare access to allied health, your plan must have been prepared or reviewed in the past 18 months. Your GP can tell you when yours is due.
Can I Book the 3-Year-Old Health Check Online?
No. At Meroo Street Family Practice, the check is a face-to-face appointment. Families book by calling our reception team on (02) 4421 4655. Our team can also answer questions when you call, so it’s a good time to ask what to bring.
Are These Appointments Bulk Billed?
Meroo Street Family Practice bulk bills all services, except procedures such as iron infusions and private medicals. If you’re unsure which group your appointment falls into, our reception team can confirm before you book. You can call them on (02) 4421 4655 with any questions.
What if My Child Isn’t 3 Yet?
The Medicare Healthy Kids Check is for Medicare-eligible 3-year-olds, and each child can have it once. Younger or older children can still see a GP for regular care, or to talk about any development concerns. If you’re unsure about the right timing for your child, our reception team can help.