Physiotherapy at Ace Allied Health (Bendigo) uses manual techniques and exercise regimes to address a variety of health conditions. A physiotherapist tailors care to suit your needs, whether that be support with chronic disease management or recovery from an injury.
Physical therapy delivered by qualified and experienced physiotherapists has the potential to improve pain, enhance mobility, and increase athletic performance. But the big question is, can you afford treatment for the duration of care that you need?
Between Medicare and private health insurance, there are several ways you may manage the potential costs. In this article, we’ll detail what is and isn’t covered by Medicare and how you may get the support you need.
If you are in need of physiotherapy but are not sure if you can make it work with your budget, reach out to our helpful team and book physiotherapy at Ace Allied Health today.
What is Medicare?
Paying for healthcare can sometimes seem endless. That is why the Australian government’s Medicare fund may 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 allied health or medical professionals.
The Medicare benefits schedule and associated requirements are specific to each area of healthcare, such as hospital services and nuclear medicine. Under specific circumstances, physiotherapy services can be covered by Medicare.
Understanding Allied Health Services
Allied health professionals are fully trained and qualified to provide diagnostic services, therapeutic treatment, and rehabilitative care. While they are not a part of the medical or dental fields, they may work in conjunction with these services.
Physiotherapy is an allied health service along with other practices such as podiatry, psychology, occupational therapy, and more.
Who Can Receive Medicare For Physiotherapy?
To receive Medicare benefits for physiotherapy, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. First, you must be either an Australian citizen, an Australian permanent resident, or require medically necessary care.
Next, your health care requirements must 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.
Many people may also receive a rebate as long as they have a Medicare referral. This is when a medical professional, such as your GP, refers you to a specific health service.
What if I Don’t Qualify?
If you do not qualify for a valid Medicare card, you won’t be able to access Medicare benefits. However, certain private health insurance plans may include physiotherapy services under extras. If you have private health insurance, carefully check your plan to see if you are covered.
Who May Benefit From Physiotherapy?
Medicare coverage is offered to some people receiving physiotherapy, as it is a service that may significantly impact their well-being. For instance, if they have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, a physiotherapist may be able to tailor or contribute to a chronic disease management plan.
There are many conditions that may be preventable or treatable. Regular physiotherapy appointments may even 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.
How to Get Five Free Physio Sessions
If you experience long-term pain or health issues, finding the most appropriate way to manage the situation may be pivotal. Speak to your general practitioner, and they will assess whether receiving physiotherapy may be an advantageous addition to your care based on your needs and goals.
If so, they may 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 in addition to rebates on any other physiotherapy sessions you may have beyond the five in a year.
Does Ace Allied Health Provide Physiotherapy Covered by Medicare?
Absolutely! Some physiotherapy clinics and medical practitioners may not accept Medicare benefits or claims. However, our team is not one of them. We accept all kinds of medicare referrals so that you may receive the tailored support you need.
Our team is dedicated to delivering high-standard physiotherapy care to all of our patients. We may work alongside multiple healthcare providers to address your concerns attentively and provide the ongoing care you need.
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
Physiotherapy may be what you need to better handle your chronic condition. As long as you meet the eligibility requirements, your Medicare claim should be accepted so that you may benefit from rebates.
Our physiotherapy clinics accept Medicare referrals, so that you may receive the right care within your budget. With locations in Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Maiden Gully, Maryborough, and Castlemaine, Ace Allied Health is your partner in physio. No matter your concern, our friendly team is always eager to help. Reach out to us today and start putting your health first.
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