The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) ECG Review Committee has been formed to consider the changes to cardiac imaging services which were recommended by the MBS Taskforce. The first stage of these changes were implemented in August 2020 and included changes to items for electrocardiograms.   
 
Due to a high level of concern about these changes from peak bodies the Minister announced the Department would undertake a six-month review of the changes, commencing in February 2021. 

The ECG review will consider ECG changes in line with the Terms of Reference for the Committee. This will include an assessment of patient outcomes arising from the changes, any impact to patient access to ECG services in the community (out of hospital), and financial considerations of the patient rebate for item 11707. The Committee will be limited to 12 members, independent from the MBS Review Taskforce and the Cardiac Services Clinical Committee.  
 
Dates for the review are in the process of being finalised. Participation in the ECG Review Committee depends on availability for the following proposed meeting dates: 

- Week of 15 March  – Online meeting  
- Week of 19 April –  Online meeting  
- Week of 17 May – Online meeting 
- Week of 14 June  – Online meeting    
- July (if needed) – TBC – Online meeting  
 
If you are interested in representing the College on this Committee, please contact j.johnson@acrrm.org.au no later than Friday 26 February. Please include an outline of any relevant experience and training and confirm that you would be able to make yourself available to participate in Committee meetings (noting that only indicative dates are available at this stage).  

This is a voluntary position. The College acknowledges and appreciates the contribution of members who take on these roles.