Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is an allied health profession primarily concerned with the treatment and management of the musculoskeletal and movement systems of the body. A Physiotherapist is University qualified and must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). At Body Plus Physio, our physiotherapists are also members of Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), which is the peak body that represents the interests of Australian physiotherapists and their patients. Physiotherapy treatment relies on evidence-based modalities, management techniques and exercise therapy. We look at correcting postures and movement patterns that can lead to or have led to injury or damage to the body. If you have suffered an injury (soft tissue sprain or strain), the physio treatment augments the body’s normal healing process to speed up recovery. Regaining muscle control and strength through exercise is often the most important part of treatment as it will reduce the recurrence of symptoms in the future.

What Makes Body Plus Physio Different?

At Body Plus Physio we are determined to provide our customers with a personalised and professional service. We have a very hands-on approach and operate in a one-on-one basis with our clients. We also understand the importance of giving you the tools to help manage your condition now and into the future with exercise programs and education regarding posture, lifestyle and ergonomics. Our dedicated physiotherapists are well trained and can deal with any musculoskeletal complaint from a simple strain to chronic pain syndromes. There is no production line, our physios take the time to listen and provide a diagnosis and evidence-based treatment. We will email you your exercise plan and provide external support at your gym or pool if necessary. We like to win!

Why Choose an APA Physiotherapist?

All physiotherapists registered to practise in Australia are qualified to provide safe, effective health care. Physiotherapists who are members of the Australian Physiotherapy Association make an extra commitment to quality health care. APA physiotherapists are required to undertake continuing professional development programs to keep themselves up to date and to abide by a Code of Conduct which sets out expected standards of professional conduct. Body Plus Physio is proud to be associated with APA and conforms to their high standards.

Are You a Preferred Provider?

Body Plus Physio is one of the few local practices that boasts a preferred provider relationship with BUPA and Medibank Private, as well as being part of the HCF “More For Muscles” program. No referrals are needed to access these programs and clients can make a claim on the spot using the HICAPS network. Please contact us for more information.

Do I Need A Referral?

Private patients do not need to provide a referral. However, if you are a DVA, WorkCover or Third Party client then a referral from your Doctor is necessary. If you wish to use the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program, or a “Care Plan”, then the appropriate paperwork is also required. It is usually best to ring us to find out what is required in these circumstances.

What If I Have More Than One Problem?

When you first speak to one of our physiotherapists you can explain what your main issue is and any other problems you may also have. It is very common for patients to have problems in multiple regions. Occasionally these issues are related to each other and your physiotherapist will need to assess and treat both those regions at the same time. When you first speak to your physiotherapist, they will determine how best to treat your primary issue first. If there are other issues that are completely unrelated the physiotherapist can discuss basic management options, but you will need to make another appointment at a later date to allow the physiotherapist to properly assess that problem before treating it.

How Long Will I Be There?

Each appointment will be between 20 and 30 minutes. You will be with your physiotherapist the whole time, there is no lying around with hot packs or machines that go ping. We spend our time with you trying to get as much out of each session as we can, and give you exercises and management techniques to use at home between visits.

How Many Times Will I Need To Come And How Often?

It is very hard to determine this as it will depend on the condition you have and the severity, your time commitments (eg work, sport, holidays), and other practical considerations such as finances. Your physiotherapist will make a recommendation, but ultimately it is up to you to determine your next appointment and when you feel ready to self-manage.

What Do I Wear?

Physiotherapy assessment and treatment requires the physiotherapist to observe your injured area, your posture, and the movements available. Often we need to observe and assess adjoining regions so undressing of outer garments is often required. You will need to move freely. You may be stretched into odd positions or required to perform exercises. As such it is recommended you wear suitable clothing such as a t-shirt, shorts and underwear (or swimwear) that you are comfortable in.

Do You Work With NDIS Patients?

Yes we do! If you are a self-managed or plan-managed NDIS client then all you need to do is contact us and we will talk you through the process and make your booking.

FUNDING QUESTIONS

What Are The Costs?

Due to the various funding options available, it is best to contact us directly so we can give you an accurate estimate of costs. We are confident that you will be impressed with our pricing structure in comparison to other practitioners and treatment options.

How Can I Pay?

We have facilities for EFTPOS, credit cards (incl. tap and go) and cash. We do not accept American Express.

Can I Use My EPC/Care Plan with Body Plus Physio, and is it Bulk Billed?

The simple answer is yes to both, however, there are regulations that surround the EPC program, and our practice has certain stipulations that you will need to follow. It is best to contact our rooms for more information and to make a booking, but the following are the more important considerations. An EPC referral will provide, at most, funding for 5 allied health appointments per calendar year (eg 4 on physio, 1 on podiatry, NOT 5 physio, 5 podiatry). Your GP must complete the appropriate referral (or referrals in some cases) to comply to the EPC program. Where there are multiple referrals to multiple providers, you must keep track of the number of visits you use during the year. If you go beyond 5 sessions with us or another provider, Medicare will not provide funding and you will then bear the cost of that session. We can help you keep a count but we only know how many times you have seen us. Our practice does provide bulk billing for EPC clients with our junior physio staff between 9am and 2pm. You can still make appointments outside of those times and with our senior staff but there is a small gap you will need to pay. The main reason for this is to allow us to continue to provide a quality service to all our clients. It means we can keep our appointment times at 30 minutes, hold onto our great staff and premises and focus on patient care by minimising the cost deficit of bulk billing.

Can I Use My NDIS Plan With Body Plus Physio?

The simple answer is yes. You will need to provide a copy of your current NDIS Plan’s dates and the goals so we can best address your needs. You can contact us directly or through your plan-manager to discuss the type of physio service you are wanting to receive. Before your first visit we will confirm whether you are a self-managed or plan-managed NDIS client. When you attend for your first visit you will complete a service agreement and we work together to create a plan to help you achieve your health goals.

How Much Does My Private Insurance Cover?

Each private health fund has different plans with various levels of cover. There is also a maximum amount of physiotherapy cover allowed in a year, and this varies between health funds. To know exactly what your fund allows it is best to call them. If you come to our office we can use our HICAPS system to give you a idea of the gap payment you should expect to pay.

Is There A Cancellation Policy?

24 hours notice is required to cancel or change an appointment. Missed appointments or cancellations made on the day of the appointment attract a cancellation fee, up to a full consultation fee, which is NOT covered by DVA, 3rd Party, WorkCover, Medicare, Private Health Insurance or any other compensable body. Exceptional circumstances will be considered when this fee is incurred. If you accrue this fee further physio services cannot be arranged until invoice is paid in full.

Do you have any other questions?

Please feel free to contact us to find out more.