Banding is a process where items are classified for billing based on different criteria associated with the service. This information is used by hospitals, insurance companies and DVA to calculate the fees due for a procedure.

There are four day accommodation bands which apply to day surgery procedures based on the time in theatre and type of anaesthetic used.

These calculations are schedule specific and can vary between states.

Band 1 is used for a minor procedure.

Band 2 treatment means procedures other than those that are Band 1 carried out under local anaesthetic with no sedations.

Band 3 treatment means procedures other than those that are Band 1 treatment carried out under

• general anaesthesia; or
• regional anaesthesia; or
• intravenous sedation

where the theatre time, being the actual time in theatre, is less than one hour.

Band 4 treatment means procedures, other than those that are Band 1 treatment carried out under

• general anaesthesia; or
• regional anaesthesia; or
• intravenous sedation

where the theatre time, being the actual time in theatre, is one hour or more.

More information on banding can be found at http://www.apha.org.au/2014/07/apha-national-procedure-banding-schedule-update-2/