Do I need a doctor’s referral to go to a physiotherapist?
No doctor’s referral is needed as physiotherapists are qualified to assess and diagnose without a doctor’s referral.
If you recently had surgery it will be helpful to bring a note from the surgeon with the exact type of surgery that you had done.
If you have been referred on an EPC/GP management program (through Medicare), on WorkCover or DVA, you will need some documentation from your doctor.
Please call our office for more information.
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapists assess, diagnose and treat injuries, illnesses and disability. They also work towards preventing disease and disability through physical means. Physiotherapists are also experts in movement and function and will help correct muscle imbalances and movement, especially after surgical procedures.
What do I need to take with me?
Please bring any scans, X-rays or other medical history that you deem important. Also bring along any letters or paperwork provided by your GP or specialist. Please bring your private health fund card, DVA card or Medicare card if you have been referred on a GP management plan.
What should I wear?
Generally it is wise to wear loose fitting clothes that you will be able to move in as you may be required to do some exercises during the session.
What should I do after my appointment?
You should drink 1-2 liters of water after your appointment if possible.
Due to the fact that our physiotherapy and exercise physiology treatments promotes waste product secretion and clearance, water will help in removing the waste products from the area and reduce the risk of feeling stiff post treatment.
You should also try not to do heavy work post physiotherapy treatment as there is an element of pain relief that accompanies treatment and there is therefor a potential risk of injury.
The Doctor referred me on a GP management plan with visits through Medicare. How does that work?
Your GP would have given you a form or would have sent it through to our office. You will be eligible for a predetermined amount of visits that is determined by your GP. Medicare offers a rebate for physiotherapy sessions but a gap fee still applies for every appointment. Please call our office if you are unsure of the current gap fee. Please also bring your Medicare Card and a bank card of the bank account registered with Medicare to process your rebate. Exercise Physiology sessions currently does not attract a gap fee and is fully funded by Medicare.
Can I use my private health fund card to get an on-the-spot rebate?
Yes, but rebates are dependent on what type of cover you are on.
How much will my private health fund pay and how much will the gap fee be?
This will depend on your fund and your type of cover. Please contact your fund to find out.
Can I pay using EFTPOS?
Yes.
How do I contact Gladstone Hands On Physiotherapy?
You can call us on (07) 4978 5581, email us at [email protected], or send us a message on our contact page.
Our business hours are:
| Monday | 08:00 – 17:00 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 08:00 – 17:00 | |
| Wednesday | 08:00 – 17:00 | |
| Thursday | 08:00 – 17:00 | |
| Friday | 08:00 – 15:30 |
How do I get to Gladstone Hands On Physiotherapy?
What is the difference between a Physiotherapist and an Exercise Physiologist?
A physiotherapist will assess, diagnose and treat you for a specific condition. They will use manual therapy (or hands-on skills), exercise and education during your treatment.
An Exercise Physiologist will assess you and manage your condition through a graduated exercise program. They can also provide advice on general well being through exercise.
What is Occupational Rehabilitation?
Occupational Rehabilitation is a structured, active rehabilitation program that is aimed at helping clients return to work. It provides physical and functional conditioning, as well as education and may include a job site visit and a personalised, graduated return to work plan.