If you work in diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology in Australia, you may have come across the term LSPN or Location Specific Practice Number. But what exactly is an LSPN, and why is it important? This blog post will explain what an LSPN is, its purpose, and how it fits into the Australian healthcare system.
What is an LSPN?
An LSPN (Location Specific Practice Number) is a unique identifier allocated by Services Australia (formerly Medicare) to specific practice sites that provide diagnostic imaging and/or radiation oncology services. This number is assigned to fixed locations as well as bases for mobile equipment, ensuring each site is distinctly recognised within the Medicare system.
Why is an LSPN Important?
The LSPN plays a critical role in the administration and funding of diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology services in Australia. Here’s why it matters:
- Unique Identification: Each practice location or mobile base providing diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology services must have its own LSPN. This ensures accurate tracking and identification of where services are delivered.
- Medicare Claims: When submitting Medicare claims for diagnostic imaging services, the LSPN must be included on all accounts, receipts, and Medicare assignment of benefits forms. Claims without a valid LSPN are rejected.
- Accreditation Requirement: To provide Medicare-eligible diagnostic imaging services, practices must be accredited under the Diagnostic Imaging Accreditation Scheme (DIAS) and have a registered LSPN. Accreditation cannot be granted without an LSPN.
- Registration Maintenance: Practices must maintain their LSPN registration by updating their details annually. Failure to comply can lead to suspension or cancellation of registration, which impacts eligibility for Medicare benefits.
Who Needs an LSPN?
LSPNs are required for any practice sites that:
- Provide diagnostic imaging services such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and nuclear medicine.
- Offer radiation oncology treatments.
- Operate mobile diagnostic imaging equipment bases.
How to Obtain and Maintain an LSPN
- Apply to Services Australia: Practices intending to provide Medicare-eligible diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology services must apply for an LSPN through Services Australia.
- Achieve Accreditation: After obtaining an LSPN, the practice must seek accreditation under the Diagnostic Imaging Accreditation Scheme.
- Annual Updates: Services Australia requests annual updates from practices to confirm or amend registration details. Practices must respond promptly to avoid suspension.
- Compliance: Maintaining accurate and current registration ensures continued eligibility for Medicare benefits.
Practical Use of LSPNs
- When submitting Medicare claims for diagnostic imaging, the LSPN must be included to identify the service location.
- Hospitals or imaging centres may have multiple LSPNs if they operate multiple sites or mobile units.
- In practice management software, LSPNs can be stored and linked to specific locations to automate claim submissions.
Where to Get More Information
- Visit the Services Australia website for detailed guidance on LSPN registration and maintenance.
- The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care provides resources on the Diagnostic Imaging Accreditation Scheme and LSPNs.
- For specific questions, contact Services Australia or the Safety and Quality Commission’s advice centre at 1800 304 056 or email AdviceCentre@safetyandquality.gov.au.
Conclusion
The Location Specific Practice Number (LSPN) is a vital component of Australia’s healthcare system for diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology services. It ensures that each service location is uniquely identified for Medicare claims and accreditation purposes. If you operate or manage a diagnostic imaging practice, understanding and maintaining your LSPN is essential for compliance and continued access to Medicare benefits.