For the first time, Australians with severe eating disorders will have access to a comprehensive treatment plan under Medicare. 

Patients with serious psychiatric conditions such as anorexia and bulimia will have access to 40 psychological services and 20 dietetic services each year from November 2019. 

These subsidies may save patients and their families up to $90,000 per year. 

“It is $110 million investment but above all else it is about providing the services for each person when they need it, where they need it for the first time on any scale such as this,” Greg Hunt, the federal Health Minister said. 

“It is not only the largest single step forward for eating disorders, it is the first time there has ever been a dedicated eating disorders item or set of treatment services available under Medicare,” Mr Hunt said. 

Approximately one million Australians suffer from an eating disorder.

Therefore, the introduction of the program is so significant as eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric illness, with anorexia being the deadliest mental health condition in Australia. 

Suicide is usually the leading cause of death among these patients. 

“It is only right that we recognise these debilitating conditions within our Medicare system. It can’t be hidden. As a parent, I know we need to make this change,” Mr Hunt said.  

He also assured that the program will commence no matter who was in the government after next year’s election because it was a Medicare item.  

“It is budgeted, it is funded, it is committed and it will be in place no matter who is in government,” Mr Hunt said.