Supporting patient access with MyMedicare exemptions

General practice teams are being reminded to consider extenuating or unforeseen circumstances when supporting patients to register for MyMedicare, ensuring those who face barriers to care are not excluded.

MyMedicare registration remains voluntary, but patients must usually meet eligibility criteria, including having received recent face‑to‑face services at their practice. However, the Department of Health and Aged Care has clarified that exemptions can be applied where patients are unable to meet these requirements due to circumstances beyond their control.

When exemptions may apply

Practices are encouraged to take a structured approach when registering patients:

• First, confirm whether the patient meets the standard eligibility criteria

• If not, assess whether extenuating or unforeseen circumstances have limited their access to care

• Select the appropriate exemption category during registration and ensure it is reflected in Health Professional Online Services (HPOS)

These circumstances may include health, geographic or situational barriers that prevent patients from attending face‑to‑face appointments.

Importantly, this exemption is separate from other eligibility categories, such as patients experiencing homelessness, family and domestic violence, or those continuing care with their usual GP.

What’s changed for practices

Recent updates have made it easier for practices to apply these exemptions consistently:

• A dedicated tick box for extenuating or unforeseen circumstances has been added to the MyMedicare Registration Form

• The system has been aligned with program guidelines to improve clarity

• Practices now have clearer guidance on appropriately using exemption pathways

These changes aim to support more equitable access to MyMedicare registration by recognising real‑world barriers patients may face.

Further information

Practices can access detailed guidance and resources via the Department of Health and Aged Care:

• https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/mymedicare-extenuating-circumstances-fact-sheet

• https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/mymedicare-program-guidelines?language=en (see Section 6.4)

• https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/mymedicare-registration-form?language=en

By using these resources and applying exemptions where appropriate, practices can help ensure patients remain connected to their usual care team—even when circumstances make access difficult.