Telehealth Physiotherapy Consultations now available at Berrigan Physiotherapy. Consult with your physiotherapist without the need to leave your home. All you need is a phone, laptop or other smart device with a stable internet connection and camera.
Telehealth FAQ
What will a telehealth consultation consist of?
Your telehealth consultation will include an assessment of your condition, advice and guidance on self-treatment techniques, and, where appropriate, the creation of a home exercise program tailored to your issue. Exercise programs are uniquely tailored and will be sent via email along with videos showing exactly how exercises should be performed.
Can I claim Private Health Insurance?
Private Health Care Australia has announced that several private health funds have agreed to cover one on one physiotherapy teleconsultations as of 14th April 2020. The below conditions apply;
- The client is undergoing an existing course of treatment and the client has seen the Physiotherapist over the past six months, or
- New clients will require a referral from their General Practitioner or relevant medical specialist recommending telehealth physiotherapy treatment.
You can read more information about private health rebates on the Australian Physiotherapy Association’s website here. Please check with your private health fund for accurate information specific to your fund and level of cover.
How do I pay for the appointment?
We are currently taking payments for online bookings over the phone with Credit/Debit card details prior to your appointment time. The telehealth system is a new platform for us, so we are working on developing an online payment portal for your ease. We will keep you updated once this platform is up and running. Thank you for your patience. Payment via bank transfer is available upon request and payment receipt will need to be provided prior to your consultation.
How do I prepare for the telehealth consult?
We will send you a confirmation email for your appointment which will include a link to enter your video call. Be prepared 10 minutes prior to your appointment time and follow the link provided. Ensure your smart device is charged, has strong internet access and visual and audio is working. Try to set up in a room where you have space to move around and there is limited background noise. Have a table or chair close by for support should you need it. It’s best to wear clothes that you are comfortable moving around in, just as you would when visiting us in clinic.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
If you are a new patient with us and wish to claim under your Private Health Insurance, you will need a referral. Current patients who have attended an appointment within the last six months will not require a referral. If you do not wish to claim private health rebates, you will not require a referral. New patient referred under the Medicare Chronic Disease Management Program will require a referral as normal.
What equipment do I need?
All you will need to take part is a computer, laptop, phone or other smart device with a camera and stable internet connection. If you are unsure about the technology used in our telehealth consultations, we will happily offer a complementary 10-minute trial to ensure you are comfortable with how the video call will work. Contact our admin team on (08) 6269 2020 to organise this.