You may be eligible to access Medicare funded Exercise Physiology under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program. The program improves care co-ordination between GPs and health professionals who provide care for people of any age with chronic conditions and complex care needs. Through the EPC program, certain people can gain access to Medicare rebates for up to five allied health services per year. A chronic condition is one that is of more than six months duration. Your GP will be able to assess whether you have complex care needs. To access Medicare funded Exercise Physiology, you will need to speak to your GP about whether you are eligible for this initiative.

In addition to the five allied health visits per year, if you have Type 2 Diabetes there is an opportunity to access further services with an Exercise Physiologist. This service involves an assessment and group exercise classes.

If eligible for either or both of these services, you and your doctor will develop a care plan. Your Exercise Physiologist will communicate with you and your doctor about your progress and at the end of your treatment there is an opportunity for your GP to review the care plan and discuss your future healthcare needs.

For more information about the EPC program talk to your Exercise Physiologist and your GP, go to the Medicare Australia website: www.medicare.gov.au, or call Medicare Australia on 132 011.

If you are ineligible for Medicare funded services, many private health insurers will pay a rebate for Exercise Physiology. To find out more, contact your health fund or call us on 8331 1557.