If you work in diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology in Australia, you’re likely familiar with the term LSPN—Location Specific Practice Number. This unique identifier is essential for Medicare billing and accreditation purposes. But how do you find or verify an LSPN? That’s where the LSPN search tool comes in. In this blog, we’ll explain what an LSPN search is, why it’s important, and how you can use it effectively.
What is an LSPN?
An LSPN (Location Specific Practice Number) is a unique six-digit number assigned by Services Australia to diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology practice sites or mobile service bases. It identifies the exact location where Medicare-eligible diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology services are provided.
Why Perform an LSPN Search?
- Verify Practice Registration: Confirm whether a diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology site is officially registered and accredited with Medicare.
- Ensure Medicare Compliance: Medicare claims for diagnostic imaging must include a valid LSPN. Using an unregistered or incorrect LSPN can lead to claim rejections.
- Confirm Accreditation Status: Only practices with a registered LSPN and accreditation under the Diagnostic Imaging Accreditation Scheme (DIAS) are eligible for Medicare benefits.
- Locate Practice Details: Find the address, contact information, and service details of registered diagnostic imaging providers.
How to Use the LSPN Search Tool
The official Medicare LSPN Register is publicly accessible online and allows you to search for registered diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology sites. Here’s how to use it:
- Visit the Medicare LSPN Search Page: The search tool is available on the Medicare Australia website.
- Enter Search Criteria: You can search by LSPN number, practice name, or location (address or suburb).
- View Results: The search will return details including the LSPN, practice name, address, and status.
- Verify Information: Use the results to confirm the practice’s registration and Medicare eligibility.
Additional Ways to View Your LSPN Details
If you are a registered provider, you can also view your LSPN details through Health Professional Online Services (HPOS):
- Log in to your PRODA account.
- Navigate to My Organisations and select your linked LSPN record.
- View or manage your LSPN details, including updating practice information if you have the appropriate permissions.
Maintaining Your LSPN Registration
It’s important to keep your LSPN registration details up to date. Services Australia requires practices to notify them within 28 days of any changes to:
- Business name, ABN, or ACN
- Practice address or mobile base location
- Equipment types used at the site
- Ownership or staffing changes related to the LSPN
Failure to update your details can result in suspension or cancellation of your LSPN, affecting Medicare eligibility.
Why is the LSPN Search Important for Patients and Providers?
- Patients can use the LSPN search to verify that their diagnostic imaging provider is registered and accredited, ensuring they receive Medicare-eligible services.
- Providers use the search to confirm their own registration status or check details of partner practices, helping maintain compliance and smooth Medicare billing.
The LSPN search is a crucial tool for anyone involved in diagnostic imaging or radiation oncology services in Australia. It helps verify practice registration, supports Medicare compliance, and promotes transparency in healthcare service delivery. Whether you’re a provider ensuring your details are current or a patient verifying a provider’s credentials, the LSPN search offers reliable, up-to-date information at your fingertips.