Physiotherapy services typically do not require a referral from a doctor unless specified by a health insurance provider or specific conditions (e.g., Medicare or workers' compensation). In most cases, you can directly contact a physiotherapy clinic and schedule an appointment without the need for a referral. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to confirm if a referral is necessary for coverage.

A Medicare Care Plan (also known as a Chronic Disease Management Plan or CDM) is a plan created by your general practitioner (GP) to help manage a chronic condition or injury. Under the Medicare system, the plan allows you to access up to 5 sessions of physiotherapy per calendar year with a Medicare rebate. To qualify for a Medicare Care Plan, you need to meet certain criteria, such as having a chronic condition or complex health needs. Your GP will assess your health and determine if a care plan is appropriate. Once created, your physiotherapy sessions under the care plan are typically covered, reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Always check with your GP and physiotherapy clinic for specific details on how to access and use the plan.

Initial Physiotherapy Session: Typically lasts between 30 to 40 minutes. During this session, the physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment, review your medical history, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Subsequent Sessions: Follow-up sessions generally last 20 to 30 minutes. These focus on progressing your treatment, monitoring your progress, and making any necessary adjustments to your therapy plan.