From 1 July 2026, Medicare requires all practices to use digital Assignment of Benefit (AoB) for bulk‑billed and Medicare‑assigned claims. DCM supports this requirement by allowing patients to review and accept consent electronically using a range of secure devices.

This page explains the options available and how your clinic can choose the method that best suits your workflow.

1. Patient’s Own Mobile Phone (Recommended)

Patients can receive a secure link via SMS and complete the AoB form on their own device.

How it works

• Reception or clinical staff trigger the AoB request from Direct CONTROL
• The patient receives a secure link
• They review the form and tap I Accept
• The signed consent is automatically stored in the patient record

Why clinics choose this option

• No hardware to purchase
• No shared devices
• Ideal for telehealth, waiting rooms, and in‑room consultations
• Fully compliant with 2026 digital AoB requirements

2. Clinic‑Owned Tablet (iPad, Surface Go, Samsung Tab)

A tablet can be handed to the patient or mounted at reception for easy access.

How it works

• Direct CONTROL displays the AoB form on the tablet
• The patient taps I Accept or signs using the touchscreen
• Consent is stored automatically

Benefits

• Simple, familiar interface
• Easy to sanitise between patients
• Suitable for high‑volume clinics and day hospitals

3. Signature Pads (USB or Bluetooth)

Direct CONTROL supports industry‑standard signature pads for clinics that prefer a dedicated device.

Common models

• Wacom STU‑430
• Wacom STU‑540
• Wacom DTU‑1141B (larger display)

Benefits

• Compact and durable
• Designed for front‑desk environments
• Captures signatures or tap‑to‑accept actions

4. Touchscreen Kiosks

For clinics with check‑in stations or high patient throughput.

How it works

• Patients complete AoB during check‑in
• The kiosk displays the form
• The patient taps I Accept
• Consent flows directly into Direct CONTROL

Benefits

• Reduces reception workload
• Integrates with digital intake workflows
• Suitable for ophthalmology, imaging, and day hospitals

5. Touchscreen PCs at Reception

If your clinic already uses touchscreen all‑in‑one PCs, patients can complete AoB directly on the existing hardware.

Benefits

• No additional devices required
• Fast and convenient
• Works well for smaller practices

Which option should your clinic choose?

How DCM stores consent

Regardless of the device used:

• The AoB form is linked to the patient record
• The acceptance timestamp is recorded
• The consent is available for audit at any time
• No paper storage is required

This ensures your clinic remains compliant with Medicare’s 2026 digital claiming requirements.

Need help setting this up?

Our team can assist with device selection, workflow configuration, and staff training. Contact DCM Support for guidance tailored to your clinic’s environment.