Chronic and complex musculoskeletal conditions and Medicare
Is Physiotherapy covered by Medicare? The short answer is yes. Is there a bulk bill physiotherapy near me? This is where the team at Lane Cove Physio can help you understand the Medicare and Bulk Billing process for physiotherapy a little bit more.
If you’re looking for information about physiotherapy covered by Medicare, it’s important to start with the updated Medicare benefits schedule about physiotherapy and bulk-billing.
Physiotherapy is one of the services that is covered by Medicare, but there are certain criteria that you will need to meet in order to be eligible for treatment.
Lane Cove Physio are Medicare registered and offer a wide range of services, from general physiotherapy to sports injury rehabilitation. Our team of highly skilled physiotherapists are dedicated to providing quality care, and our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest technology.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a government-funded health insurance scheme that provides cover for a range of medical and allied health services.
In Australia, all residents are eligible for Medicare coverage, which means that you can access a range of free or low-cost medical treatments.
Who is covered by Medicare?
- Any Australian citizen
- A New Zealand citizen
- An Australian permanent resident
- Applying for permanent residency in Australia
- A temporary resident covered by a ministerial order
You are also eligible to enrol in Medicare Australia if you are a citizen or resident of:
- Norfolk Island
- Christmas Island
- Cocos (Keeling) Island
- Lord Howe Island
How does Medicare cover physiotherapy?
In order to qualify for a Medicare rebate you need to have what is deemed a chronic and complex musculoskeletal condition. This might sound a bit scary, yet a chronic condition is generally considered a problem or condition that you have had for longer than 6 months or is likely to last more than 6 months. The complex component typically means you need it to be managed by a General Practitioner (GP).
If you have a chronic and complex musculoskeletal condition, Medicare will cover you for up to 5 visits to a physiotherapist. When it comes to claiming a Medicare benefit for your physiotherapy appointment, the protocol can vary from clinic to clinic.
Here at Lane Cove Physio we see quite a few patients who are affected by chronic pain conditions such as:
- osteoarthritis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- low back pain
- neuropathic pain
How do I pay for my appointment and get a rebate?
After your GP referral, simply contact your local Lane cove physio or book in online. We’ll tailor a treatment program to your specific needs and help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.
In some cases, you may need to pay for your appointment in full and then claim the benefit from Medicare yourself. As such, it is always best to check with your chosen clinic beforehand to find out their specific process.
If you’re not sure whether your condition qualifies for Medicare coverage, our team can help you understand the requirements and determine the best course of treatment. Contact us today to learn more.
At Lane Cove Physiotherapy, our goal is to provide our patients with the latest in evidence-based care. Whether you’re looking for relief from a chronic condition or you’re recovering from an injury, we’re here to help. We look forward to helping you on your road to recovery.
Contact us today to book an appointment.
