Saturday, 25 October 2025
New ultrasound MBS item for complex gynaecological conditions
From 1 November 2025 a new Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item (55080) will support ultrasound for complex gynaecological conditions including severe endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic congestion syndrome, chronic pelvic inflammatory disease and pelvic floor dysfunction. The new item recognises that certain pelvic ultrasound examinations require greater clinical skill and longer scan times than standard pelvic imaging. It aims to improve diagnostic access and quality of care for women affected by complex gynaecological conditions.
Key features of item 55080
• Applies to pelvic ultrasound (including transvaginal)
• May be claimed only when a complex gynaecological condition is known or suspected
• Requires a minimum of 30 minutes scanning time
• Cannot be claimed on the same day as another pelvic ultrasound item (55038, 55065, 55700, 55704, 55736 or 55739)
• Schedule fee: $255.00 with standard Medicare benefits applying.
Why it matters
This new item recognises the advanced expertise required for complex gynaecological ultrasound and forms part of the Australian Government’s broader review of diagnostic imaging services. It represents an important step toward ensuring women with endometriosis and other complex conditions receive accurate high-quality imaging. The change follows the Select Medicare-Funded Diagnostic Imaging Ultrasound Services review announced in the 2024–25 Budget. Feedback from clinicians identified that the existing pelvic ultrasound item (55065) did not adequately support complex cases and that a new service with a higher schedule fee was needed.
ASA advocacy recognised
The introduction of item 55080 reflects ASA’s advocacy for a dedicated MBS item for endometriosis imaging. ASA called for this reform in both its Commonwealth 2025 Pre-Budget Submission and its submission to the South Australian Parliamentary Inquiry into Endometriosis. ASA welcomes the Government’s recognition of the time, skill and clinical value involved in advanced pelvic ultrasound and will continue to advocate for equitable access to high-quality diagnostic imaging for women across Australia.