Does Medicare Cover Physiotherapy: Everything You Need to Know

Medicare, Australia’s public health system, provides essential healthcare services for all Australians, but when it comes to physiotherapy, many people are unsure about what is covered. 

While Medicare does not routinely cover private physiotherapy services, it does offer some support under specific circumstances. Through the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, patients with chronic or complex conditions can access a limited number of physiotherapy sessions, covered under Medicare. This plan allows for up to five allied health appointments per year, which can be shared across different services such as physiotherapy, podiatry, and dietetics. 

To qualify for this scheme, you must be referred by your GP, who will assess whether your condition requires multidisciplinary care. The CDM plan is especially beneficial for those dealing with long-term musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis, chronic back pain, or rehabilitation after surgery. Whilst Medicare only covers a portion of the session cost, it ensures that your out of pocket gap remains lower than paying for a session outright. 

For those needing more frequent or long-term physiotherapy, private health insurance may be an option to consider, as it typically offers more extensive coverage for private physiotherapy services. 

In short, while Medicare provides limited coverage for physiotherapy, the Chronic Disease Management plan can offer some financial relief for those with ongoing conditions, helping to make physiotherapy services more accessible. Always speak with your GP and physiotherapist to understand your eligibility and options.