Chronic and complex conditions (Medicare Plus)
Evidence suggests that exercise is a valuable component of self-management of complex and chronic medical conditions, such as:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Heart disease
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Hypertension (High blood pressure)
- Hypercholesterolaemia (High cholesterol)
- Osteoporosis
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Am I eligible?
“To be eligible to receive a Medicare rebate for Exercise Physiology services, patients will need to be referred by their GP and have their health managed through an Enhanced Primary Care plan”(1)
The follow documents need to be competed by a GP prior to organising an initial assessment –
- A ‘GP management plan’ (Item 721), and
- A ‘Team care arrangement’ (Item 723)
What does the program involve?
- Up to five (5) consultations with an AAESS (Australian Association of Exercise and Sports Science) Accredited Exercise Physiologist in a calendar year.
- Physiological Initial Assessment and Reassessment.
- Exercise Program geared to your personal goals.
 What is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist?
An Accredited Exercise Physiologist is a tertiary qualified health professional equipped with the skills and knowledge to safely assess, prescribe and deliver exercise to prevent disease and also assist in rehabilitation for chronic and complex medical conditions including musculoskeletal field. Exercise Physiologists aim to promote general well-being by assisting with active long-term self-management of conditions through exercise geared at improving physical and functional capabilities.
What is the cost of the program?
- $46.80 per session which can be claimed through Medicare (there is no gap).
- You can elect to take part in a home or gym based program. If you elect a gym program, gym membership/usage prices may apply.
What if I’m not eligible for a Medicare rebate but would like to take advantage of the Exercise Physiologists’ services?
- You can see an Accredited Exercise Physiologist for a private personal program, contact the centre on (02) 4221 3057 for further information.
- Your health fund may cover some costs, talk to your health fund to find out if rebates apply.
Further information of the inclusion of Exercise Physiology services under Medicare
Tony Abbott, Minister for Health and Ageing released the following statement in 2005 regarding the recognition of Exercise Physiology services and subsequent inclusion of services in GP care plans;
“Including exercise physiology services under the Medicare allied health initiative means patients will have greater access to professional services for physical rehabilitation and disease prevention. Exercise physiologists provide exercise therapy to prevent and manage chronic disease.
Exercise physiologists can improve the health of people with chronic and complex medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure and arthritis. They can also help patients with dementia, osteoporosis and depression, as well as people who have had a stroke.”(1)
(1)1- 6 September 2005 MEDIA RELEASE, Minister for Health and Ageing, Tony Abbott MHR.
To find out more contact katz@uow.edu.au
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