Dear members,
We know these health fund developments carry real weight for your practices and your clients, so we want to be straightforward about where things stand. Progress across the funds has been slower than anyone would like, and we share that frustration. It is driving our work, not slowing it, and ATMS continues to push on every available front.
Advocating for reinstatement
ATMS is actively engaging with Australia’s major private health funds, monitoring developments closely, and consistently making the case for greater recognition of, and access for, qualified natural therapy practitioners. Our commitment remains to keep members informed, supported, and well positioned as opportunities become available.
CBHS and ARHG — assessments underway
The ATMS team is currently assessing eligible members for recognition with CBHS and ARHG across:
- Naturopathy
- Western Herbal Medicine
- Shiatsu
This work has been prioritised, and we have been progressing it behind the scenes so that eligible practitioners can access provider recognition as these funds advance their reinstatement processes.
Medibank and ahm — timeline update
Medibank and ahm have advised that their reinstatement of natural therapy benefits, originally anticipated on 1 July 2026, has been delayed to later in the year, with September 2026 indicated as a possible timeframe. An exact date has not yet been confirmed. ATMS continues to engage with both funds to seek clarity on provider onboarding and implementation, and to advocate for an efficient pathway for members.
Ongoing advocacy with other funds
We remain in regular contact with Bupa, HCF, nib, GU Health and Australian Unity, consistently advocating for our members and encouraging progress toward reinstatement. While no further updates have been provided by these funds at this stage, ATMS continues to actively represent the interests of members and the profession, and to keep provider recognition firmly on the agenda.
Check your eligibility
The most useful step members can take now is to ensure they are ready. Please review the criteria and documentation in the ATMS 2026 Health Insurance Provider Re-registration & Eligibility Guide, which outlines current eligibility, required documents, and key information on health fund recognition and re-registration:
Read the guide: 2026 Health Insurance Provider Re-registration & Eligibility Guide – Australian Traditional Medicine…
Stay informed
ATMS is committed to keeping members updated and will share new information as soon as it becomes available. If you have any questions about health fund recognition, eligibility assessments, or re-registration requirements, please contact our Health Funds Officer at healthfunds@atms.com.au.
Thank you for your continued patience and support.
Warm regards,
Annie Gibbins Chief Executive Officer Australian Traditional-Medicine Society
