Capsule endoscopy: A new technology for investigating obscure gastrointestinal bleeding

Abstract

In Australia, Medicare rebate was approved in May 2005 for use of capsule endoscopy in children aged 10 years and over. Approval was granted for an interim period to allow investigation of obscure ongoing or recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding, for which no cause could be found after investigation, including conventional radiology and endoscopy. Strict eligibility criteria for Medicare rebate for the procedure have been developed. These criteria relate to patient selection, type of device, timing of the procedure, qualifications of providers and requirements for prospectively monitoring the use, uefulness, safety and cost-effectiveness of the procedure in children.