Q and A: Average Time for Care Plan Procedures.

Average Time for Care Plan Procedures

1. Care Plan (GP Management Plan & Team Care Arrangements)
   • Duration: 15–25 minutes with the patient.
   • This process involves explaining the plan, securing agreement on goals, documenting the details, and discussing the next steps with the patient.
   Key Points:
   • Many assume a Care Plan must take an hour, but it is primarily a structured outline rather than a task list requiring immediate action. A well-trained nurse can efficiently complete the process within 20 minutes, including documentation.
   • If paperwork for the Care Plan consistently exceeds 6–10 minutes, the clinic may benefit from improved technological solutions.
2. 6-Month Care Plan Review
   • Duration: 15–25 minutes.
   • This appointment involves reviewing the patient’s progress, making necessary adjustments, and updating referrals as required.
   Additional Billing Note:
   • Where applicable, item 10997 can be billed alongside 732 + 732.
3. Health Assessment for Patients Aged 75+
   • Duration: 45–60 minutes maximum.
   • This assessment evaluates medical, functional, psychological, and social factors, often conducted with nurse assistance.
4. Follow-up for TCA (Team Care Arrangement) Acceptance by External Providers
   • Process:
     • Send the TCA Letter of Engagement to the provider via fax, email, or secure verbal agreement if the provider is on-site.
     • If no response is received within a few hours, follow up with a phone call.
     • If the provider still does not respond, postpone billing or submitting the Medicare claim until the next day.
   Key Points:
   • Approximately 90% of GP clinics refer to the same providers regularly. Establishing a direct communication process via phone can help expedite responses.
   • This requirement is anticipated to be discontinued by July 2025.

These time frames and procedures may vary depending on case complexity and clinic workflows.