Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) has welcomed a terminology update to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), marking an important step in properly recognising the work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners.
The Department of Health, Disability, and Aged Care has announced that from 1 November 2025, several MBS item descriptions will be updated to better reflect the primary health care services these professionals provide.
The significance of terminology
Mahlia Peachey, Senior Practice Development Officer at WNSW PHN, said the change may look small on paper but carries real significance.
“This change to the MBS, recognising Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners as primary health care professionals, truly reflects the scope and diversity of services that our AHWs and AHPs provide.
“While this change may seem minor, it ensures meaningful recognition for AHWs and AHPs providing comprehensive primary health care to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” Ms Peachey said.
Under the update, the MBS will now use the term “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health care professionals” to describe both health workers and health practitioners. The revision will also ensure these roles are clearly distinguished from allied health professionals when needed.
In addition, MBS items linked to chronic condition management and follow-up care after a health assessment will adopt new naming. What was previously called an “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health service” will be renamed an “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing service.”
This shift reflects the essential and holistic care Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health care professionals provide and will support better health outcomes for communities across the region.
More information
View full media release from Department of Health, Disability and Ageing here.
View full media release from NAATSIHWP here.
