Who is Eligible?
Applicants must be clinically diagnosed with EB and be an Australian citizen or resident who is eligible to receive Medicare benefits.
People with all types of EB are eligible under the scheme.
Proof of diagnosis by the way of one of the following is required to support your application:
- skin biopsy testing results; or
- genetic testing results; or
- genetic testing results of a family member.
➤ This evidence must clearly state the diagnosis and subtype of EB for the family member. Sufficient evidence of family relationship (including birth certificates) and the probability of inheritance must also be supplied.
- Provisional access to the NEBDS can be provided on clinical diagnosis by an Approved Specialist Health Care Professional or a multidisciplinary EB clinic.
➤ Note that clinical diagnosis must be followed by a skin biopsy, genetic testing or genetic tests of a family member:
• within six (6) months of provisional approval; or
• within three (3) months for a newborn
Where a new applicant’s eligibility to access the scheme is unclear (in accordance with the Eligibility Guidelines), the application can be referred to the Clinical Advisory Committee (CAC) who will assess the application and make a recommendation regarding eligibility to access the NEBDS. Please note, in these circumstances the approved specialist health care professional is required to provide a detailed letter clearly outlining the applicant’s case, their expert opinion of the EB sub type category, and any additional supporting evidence, including clinical photographs.
A more in-depth review of the eligibility criteria is provided in the National Epidermolysis Bullosa Eligibility Guidelines.
What if I’m not Eligible?
People who are not eligible for the scheme are welcome to purchase dressings on the approved list and other specialised dressings and products stocked by Independence Australia at their own cost.
You can place orders through Independence Australia by the following methods: