Is physiotherapy covered with Health Insurance?

When it comes to physiotherapy coverage on your private health insurancepolicy you’ll need to take out extras cover. Each policy is different so it’s wise to do your extras research and consider the best private health cover for your physio needs. 

What exactly is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is all about helping you regain, preserve, and optimise your mobility, functionality, and overall well-being. It’s all about enabling you to move more freely and with less discomfort, but it does this without relying on medications or surgery. Instead, physiotherapy employs physical techniques like massage and exercise.

This approach isn’t just about addressing immediate issues. It can also work wonders for the long term. Regular use and strengthening exercises can slow down the natural process of muscle and bone deterioration. Plus, if you’ve faced injuries or have ongoing medical conditions, physiotherapy can play a crucial role in improving your healing.

What does physiotherapy treat?

Physiotherapy coverage is an extra that private health insurance policies offer. It’s designed to provide benefits when you need to see a physiotherapist. If you’re someone who deals with or anticipates issues related to:

  • Mobility limitations – shoulder injuries, knee pain and injuries
  • Post-accident or injury recovery
  • Pre & Post Surgery treatments
  • Specific chronic conditions
  • Neurological disorders
  • Back and neck pain
  • Sports-related injuries
  • Sporting Injuries
  • Ankle Sprains
  • TMJD (jaw pain)
  • Fracture management (casting, boots and braces)

Then, it might be a smart move to consider getting a dependable extras policy that covers your physiotherapy needs. 

What advantages does physiotherapy bring?

Beyond the obvious perks of boosting your mobility and strength, physiotherapy and strength training offer a host of wide-reaching benefits that can enhance your overall well-being and even extend your lifespan. The stronger you are, the lower the risk of other health conditions. 

What types of physio treatments are covered with an extras policy?

Well, there are many options, and it really depends on your private insurance provider and the level of extras coverage you’ve chosen. If you’ve got a basic extras policy, the coverage might be limited, but if you’ve splurged on a more comprehensive extras plan, you’ll likely have broader coverage.

Let’s break down what you might be able to claim if you have an extras policy that includes physiotherapy:

  1. Initial Consultation and Health Diagnosis: This covers your first visit to the physio, where they assess your condition and come up with a plan.
  2. Follow-Up Consultations: Ongoing visits to the physio to track your progress and make adjustments to your treatment.
  3. Treatment Plan Development: The creation of a structured plan tailored to your specific healthcare needs.
  4. Rehabilitation: If you’re on the road to recovery, this can include the exercises and therapies needed to get you back in action.
  5. Dry Needling: Some policies might even cover specialised treatments like dry needling.

How long are the waiting periods for physiotherapy?

When it comes to the waiting periods for your general treatment, which include your extras coverage for physiotherapy, it’s worth noting that these timelines are determined by your specific private health insurance provider. Waiting periods tend to fall in the range of two to six months for services like physiotherapy. There are however policies that have no waiting periods on physiotherapy meaning you can take the cover out and use the service right away!

To wrap up, when it comes to the question of whether physiotherapy is covered by your private health insurance, the answer lies in your extras cover. Every private health insurance policy is unique, so it’s essential to do your homework and select the right plan to suit your physiotherapy needs.

Physiotherapy, as we’ve explored, is a powerful ally in enhancing your mobility, strength, and overall well-being. It’s a natural approach that avoids the need for medications or surgery, making it not just a solution for immediate issues but a key player in long-term health. From slowing down the aging process of muscles and bones to aiding recovery from injuries and managing chronic conditions, physiotherapy offers a wealth of benefits.

Your choice of extras policy will determine the extent of your coverage. Whether it’s that initial consultation, follow-up sessions, treatment plans, rehabilitation, or even specialised treatments like dry needling, the level of coverage can vary based on the plan you select.

Lastly, keep in mind that waiting periods for physiotherapy, like any other extras, can differ from insurer to insurer. Typically, they fall within the range of two to six months. So, as you navigate the world of physiotherapy coverage, remember that it’s all about finding the right policy to keep you moving forward on your journey to better health and well-being.

Our Team are ready to take your call

To compare private health insurance funds and discuss physio cover today.

Call us on  1300 861 413 or email us hello@health.compare

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How do I make a claim on private health insurance?

Welcome to the hassle-free guide to make a private health cover claiming easier! We’re here to simplify the process for you.

Pre-Claim Checklist: 

Before you dive into making a claim, make sure you’ve got these bases covered:

Bank Details: Ensure we have your up-to-date bank details. That’s the secret for a seamless claim process so funds go right into your nominated account.

Know Your Coverage: Take a moment to check that your treatment or service is covered, and you’ve patiently served any waiting periods. Make sure you’re eligible for the services you’re claiming and that you have served relevant waiting periods for each service.

Timing Matters: You can’t claim in advance. So, make sure you’ve already had the treatment or service, and you’re within two years of the date of service.

Read the Fine Print: Read all the Terms and Conditions of your private health insurance, though often overlooked, these are a crucial part of the journey. Make sure you’ve read and agreed to the provider’s T&Cs.

Keep in Mind: Sometimes, your private health provider might need a bit more info to process your claim smoothly. So they may reach out for some extra details.

Ways to Claim: 

Now, let’s explore the avenues you can take to claim back some of your healthcare fees:

Online: If you’re the tech-savvy type, claiming online via your provider’s website on your desktop is the way to go. It’s like online shopping but for your health benefits.

Membership Card: For those who prefer the old-school choice of presenting a physical card, most extras providers offer the convenience of on-the-spot claiming using your membership card in store.

Via Traditional Mail: Simply send your provider a letter with your completed claim form and the original invoices or receipts. 

Mobile App: If you have a smartphone, simply download your provider’s app, and your digital card to make your claim. This option is effortless at health providers with a HICAPS machine.

FAQs: 

Q: What’s a Benefit?

A: It’s the reimbursement private health funds give back to you for a service or treatment you’ve had. Think of it as a health bonus – you deserve it!

Q: How Much Will I Get Back from an Extras Claim?

A: The amount depends on a few things, like the item number of the service, your level of cover, and how much you’ve already claimed in the calendar year. 

Q: How Long Does Claim Processing Take?

A:Claims typically take about 7 working days to process. Once we’re done, the private health fund will deposit your benefit into your chosen bank account. 

Still Confused? Talk to Us!

If you’re still unsure how to make a claim for a hospital stay, extras treatment or ambulance journey speak to us today on 1300 861 413 or email us hello@health.compare

We will assist you with finding the best private health insurance provider. 🎉🏥💪

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