Is Physiotherapy Covered by Medicare?
Physiotherapy can be a beneficial treatment for many people. This holistic, whole-body approach to healing aims to improve pain, movement, functionality, and overall well-being by using an array of evidence-based techniques.
If this sounds like something that could be of interest to you, you may be wondering if you can fit it into your budget. When seeking out professional care for health issues, planning your finances first can be an important factor. Some private health insurance providers support physiotherapy treatment, but does Medicare?
Physiotherapy could be the solution to your pain or mobility issues. At Whole Body Clinic, we deliver high-quality care at competitive prices, but financial support can always be helpful. Find out if physiotherapy is covered by Medicare in our helpful guide.
What is Medicare?
Health care can be expensive and without support, many of us may need to delay or avoid treatment. That is where Medicare steps in.
Medicare helps to cover the cost of most health care in Australia. There is a range of services that can be claimed under the Medicare policy once you reach certain eligibility criteria.
To enrol in the Medicare system and to find out the specific details regarding claimable services and eligibility criteria and how to make a claim, contact Medicare or explore their website.
Our team is happy to discuss with you how you can claim for physiotherapy treatment and assist you where we can.
Am I Eligible for Medicare Rebates For Physiotherapy?
Within Medicare, there is the Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) scheme. This is aimed at people who live with chronic conditions, particularly those that require a multidisciplinary approach.
Physiotherapy treatment is part of this scheme, so if your doctor has referred you to a physiotherapist for complex or chronic musculoskeletal issues as part of your treatment, you can claim with Medicare.
In this context, you must have been dealing with your issue for at least six months, or your doctor expects it to be present for at least this amount of time. The conditions that are considered eligible are assessed individually.
Another factor that impacts your eligibility is how many healthcare practitioners you require. To make a claim, your condition must be complex, which means there must be at least three healthcare professionals helping you, including your physiotherapist. Physiotherapy care is only eligible if it lasts for more than 20 minutes and is not provided at a hospital.
There are specifics related to citizenship and residency that we recommend you consult Medicare about if you are uncertain.
How Much is a Medicare Rebate?
There is a limit to how many appointments with an allied health care professional you can claim for. If your condition is chronic and complex, you can claim for five appointments each calendar year.
After your appointment, you pay as usual. Then you submit your claim, or we can do this for you. Your rebate will be calculated and returned to you. The difference between the session cost and the rebate typically involves a gap payment. If you have private health insurance, you can then claim with your provider the rest of the amount.
How Can The Whole Body Clinic Help You?
We are dedicated to delivering care that is tailored to your needs. During your initial consultation, your physiotherapist will provide a comprehensive assessment to identify issues and underlying factors. From there, they will develop a treatment plan that incorporates your requirements and goals. Our physios are highly experienced and qualified professionals who offer a range of techniques and approaches that are most suitable to your needs.
Your physiotherapy treatment may include methods such as:
- Deep tissue massage.
- Stretching.
- Joint mobilisation.
- Dry needling.
- Electrotherapy or shockwave therapy.
- Rehabilitation program.
- Prescription of exercises and stretches.
- Education and advice.
From acute and chronic conditions to sporting injuries to wear and tear, we can support you towards better comfort and an improved quality of life. We look forward to helping you by utilising the most appropriate physiotherapy treatment for you.
Receive High-Quality Physiotherapy at Whole Body Clinic
Our team provides thorough and personalised physiotherapy treatment to all our patients. If you are experiencing pain, reduced functionality, or limited mobility, please contact us to organise an initial consultation.
If you have any further questions regarding costs or claims, please talk to our friendly team for details and guidance.