Information for patients

What can an Exercise Physiologist do for me?

Working either alone, or in conjunction with Medical and other Allied Health Professionals, sports coaches or family members, an Exercise Physiologist can assist with a range of health issues including… (you can download .pdf version of the colour brochure here)

Lifestyle management

An effective lifestyle management program can aid longevity and reduce disease risk. Client centered, inclusive, lifestyle management plans can be specifically developed to suit your busy schedule.

Cardiac rehabilitation

Appropriate exercise is an effective rehabilitation strategy following a cardiac event to improve fitness and restore functional capacity. Graduated exercise aids in the return to full capacity and assists in maintenance of health.

Musculoskeletal rehabilitation

Strength and flexibility training may assist in the restoration of pre-injury levels of work capacity. This ensures a prompt, safe return to work or recreational tasks. Comprehensive education is included to ensure a lesser risk of re-injury.

Diabetes management

Exercise may improve insulin sensitivity and aid in blood glucose control. Exercise also assists in management of the risks associated with diabetes such as heart and kidney disease and stroke.

Depression and anxiety disorders

Exercise not only affects the body’s physical, but the emotional well being. Exercise is often prescribed as an adjunct therapy to conventional pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Exercise can improve mood, assist in managing body weight and improve energy levels.

Health fund rebates

Rebates are available from a number of Private Health Funds. Please contact your Health Fund to confirm your eligibility for a rebate and the level of rebate available. At the time of writing, the following Health Funds offer rebates to members. MBF Grand United NIB AHM

Medicare

        Currently, no rebate is available from Medicare for Exercise Physiology services. Patients who are on an Enhanced Primary Care program via their General Practitioner may be eligible for rebates for GP referred services under the Treatment Plan. Check with your GP for more information.

DVA patients

        DVA patients are now eligible for treatment by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist. Gold card holders are eligible for treatment of all conditions; white card holders are eligible for treatment of an accepted condition. Visit the DVA FactSheet website and download the following fact sheet, (HSV 30 - Exercise Physiology – Information for the Veteran Community) for more information or discuss treatment with your GP.

Payment of accounts

Payment is required upon completion of the consultation. If the treatment is eligible for a Health Fund or Medicare rebate, take the account, paid in full, to the provider for your rebate. Payment may be made by cash, cheque or EFTPOS.

Referrals

        No referral is required in most cases however, patients may be referred by their GP, specialist or other Allied Health Professional. In some cases, to be eligible for a Health Fund or Medicare rebate, a referral is required. Check with your treating professional or Health Fund.