Physiotherapy is a form of holistic, non-invasive, and drug-free healthcare that can be advantageous for many people with a broad variety of concerns and conditions. Patients young and old can gain diagnoses and be supported with personalised treatment based on their specific needs and goals. But the big question is, can you afford treatment for the length of time required?
Receiving adequate healthcare can be pivotal to your overall quality of life. Physical therapy delivered by qualified and experienced physiotherapists has the potential to improve pain, decreased mobility and functionality, and increase your athletic performance. However, the prospect of covering the costs can be daunting. The good news is, there are steps you can take to lessen the load.
If you are in need of physiotherapy care but are not sure if you can make it work with your budget, read on to learn about whether physio is covered by Medicare.
What is Medicare?
Paying for healthcare can sometimes seem endless. That is why the Australian government’s Medicare fund can be significantly beneficial. This system means that many forms of healthcare are covered, partly or fully, by rebates. If your citizenship or residency status means you are eligible to be a member, you must enrol to receive a Medicare card. You will then present this when you visit suitable health professionals.
Medicare benefits and associated requirements are specific to each area of healthcare, such as hospital services and nuclear medicine. Thankfully, physiotherapy is one of the services covered by Medicare.
Who May Benefit From Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is covered by Medicare for eligible people because exercise and physical therapy are akin to medicine in terms of providing potential improvement for countless health conditions. Many of these conditions are preventable or treatable, or therapy may stop them from becoming worse.
Some conditions and concerns that typically meet the eligibility criteria for Medicare-covered physiotherapy include:
- Osteoporosis.
- Obesity.
- Hypertension.
- Diabetes.
- Musculoskeletal injury.
- Arthritis.
- Post stroke.
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Parkinson’s disease.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Spinal cord injury.
- Post joint replacement.
- Post surgery recovery.
- Vestibular disorders.
- Gait issues.
- Post heart attack or heart surgery.
- Severe whiplash.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction.
Who Can Receive Medicare For Physiotherapy?
To receive Medicare benefits for physiotherapy, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. This relates to citizenship and residency, and healthcare needs.
These health care requirements involve you having:
- Complex care needs. As such, you receive ongoing support from a multidisciplinary team under a GP Management Plan and Team Care Arrangement or through a shared care plan.
OR
- A chronic health condition. This is a condition that has existed for at least six months or a condition that is likely to persist for at least six months.
How to Get 5 Free Physio Sessions
If you experience long-term pain or health issues, finding the most appropriate way to manage the situation can be pivotal. Speak to your GP and they will assess whether receiving physiotherapy may be an advantageous addition to your care based on your needs and goals. If so, they can create a GP Care Plan, which includes a referral for physiotherapy. This means that Medicare will cover up to five sessions per calendar year. This is alongside rebates on any other physiotherapy sessions you may have beyond those five in one year.
Does Ace Allied Health Provide Physiotherapy Covered by Medicare?
Absolutely! Our team is dedicated to delivering physiotherapy care of a high standard to each of our patients. We would love to look after you and provide comprehensive, personalised support that targets your issue and underlying factors to get you back on track. If you have questions about whether you are eligible for Medicare rebates for physiotherapy and five free sessions, we recommend visiting Medicare’s website or giving them a call. Your GP will also be able to assess your condition and requirements, decide whether you are eligible, and provide you with a suitable care plan and referral.
Receive Medicare Rebates for Physiotherapy
Managing your ongoing health condition or injury to maintain or improve your functionality and comfort is of utmost importance. Physiotherapy can be a great option for many issues and target outcomes, and we are happy to talk to you about whether it may suit your needs.
Medicare rebates and the five free sessions offer a way to be able to include physiotherapy into your budget. If you are dealing with an issue that may benefit from physiotherapy, please contact our friendly team to organise an initial consultation. Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment and develop a tailored plan for your needs. We look forward to supporting you.
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