TMS treatment is covered under Medicare if a patient has a depression diagnosis and has trialled antidepressants without a satisfactory response or tolerability concerns, is over 18 and has not previously had TMS.
Medicare referral criteria for TMS treatment
- Diagnosis of major depressive disorder
- > 18 years old
- Trialled at least two antidepressants or cannot tolerate medication
- Has tried psychotherapy if appropriate
- Has not previously tried TMS treatment
Patients who have previously had TMS treatment as an inpatient or outpatient may be eligible for a private health rebate for maintenance treatment. Read more about private health fund rebates here