Frequently Asked Questions
Why Heathmont Physio & Sports Medicine (HePSM)?
Heathmont Physio & Sports Medicine is dedicated to the provision of high quality, cost effective, accessible physiotherapy and related health care services.
HePSM Physiotherapists are highly skilled professionals who:
Listen to their clients’ needs and wants (shared decision-making process),
Assess, diagnose and manage your dysfunction and enhance physical and functional capabilities.
Provide Hands on local therapy
Restore, maintain and promote not only optimal physical function but also optimal quality of life as it relates to each individual.
Do I need a Doctor’s referral?
No. However, a referral from a medical practitioner is necessary only if:
Your treatment is covered by Veterans Affairs
You are claiming your treatment expenses through a 3rd party claim.
Your physiotherapist is also able to refer you on to other medical and allied health professionals where appropriate.
Can I claim a rebate for my physio treatment?
If you have private health cover and subscribe to the “extras” cover you should be eligible to claim part of your treatment fee through our HICAPS system which we provide for your convenience. There are many different schemes and you are best advised to check your level of cover with your insurer e.g. NIB gives you 60% of your consult fee. This leaves you only the gap to pay. You will need to bring your health fund card with you.
Medicare now offers Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Programmes to allow a Medicare rebate for up to 5 physio treatments a year. The programme is for people with chronic conditions, patients must be referred by their GP. If you have any queries regarding this service please don’t hesitate to speak with our admin staff.
What happens at my first treatment with a physio?
Following an initial comprehensive assessment, a full objective examination and hands on assessment with functional testing is performed to establish potential differential diagnosis (there could be more than one). You are welcome to ask any questions you may have throughout the consultation.
Treatment may involve different ways of relieving pain, restoring function, flexibility and strength. Skills and techniques used may include mobilisations of joints and or soft tissues, manipulation, postural correction, electrotherapy, exercises and muscle rehabilitation. You will also learn techniques to use at home to manage your problem, which may include exercise and preventative measures.
At Doreen Physio & Sports Medicine our physiotherapist we also liaise with others involved in your care if applicable and will refer you for alternative treatment if Physiotherapy is not the best option e.g. a Sports Physician (Specialist Doctor whom we work closely with).
How long does my physio treatments take?
An initial consultation for one problem will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on the complexity
A follow up consultation will take approximately 30 minutes. Whatever is required to make a difference to your problem will be done during the treatment.
As a new client we would appreciate if you could arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment to allow time to fill out relevant paperwork.
Our physios strive to keep to their appointment schedule, but there are occasional unforeseen circumstances.
What to bring to your first physio appointment?
When you book in for your first appointment with us, we recommend bringing with you;
A pair of shorts if its lower limb condition
Your Private Health fund card if you have one
Any x-rays, scans results
A list of any questions you may have
