Does Medicare cover physio?

The short answer

Medicare does not usually pay for physiotherapy you book yourself at a private clinic. Most people pay the clinic fee and claim part of it back through private health insurance with extras cover. There are some situations where Medicare can contribute, and a few other schemes that may cover treatment.

When Medicare can help

If you have a chronic or long-term condition, your GP may be able to prepare a care plan that allows a limited number of Medicare-supported allied health visits each calendar year. Physio is one of the services this can cover. The number of visits is shared across all allied health services you use, such as podiatry or dietetics, and the rebate is a set amount, so you may still pay a gap.

The rules for these plans have changed over time, so ask your GP what is available now, and check the current details on the Services Australia website.

Private health insurance

Physio is usually covered under extras cover, not hospital cover. Your rebate depends on your fund, your level of cover and your annual limit for physio or general treatment. Many clinics claim on the spot with a card machine, so you only pay the difference. You do not normally need a referral to claim.

Check your policy for the rebate amount, any waiting periods and your yearly limit before you book.

Other schemes that may cover physio

• DVA: eligible veterans may have treatment covered for accepted conditions, and some arrangements need a referral from a GP
• NDIS: physio can be funded if it relates to your plan goals. Read our NDIS physio guide.
• Workers compensation: treatment for an accepted work injury is covered, usually with a claim number and sometimes with prior approval
• Transport accident schemes: injuries from a road accident may be covered by your state or territory scheme
• Public hospital and community health services: some offer physio, often with a wait and eligibility rules

Do you need a referral?

For private physio paid for yourself or claimed through private health, you generally do not need a referral. Funding schemes are different, and some require a GP plan, referral or approval. Our referral guide goes through each scenario.

What to ask before you book

• Do you accept my funding scheme, and what paperwork do I need?
• What will I pay on the day, and can you claim my rebate on the spot?
• Is there a gap, and how much is it?
• Do I need a referral or plan for the way I am paying?

How much will you pay?

Fees differ between clinics, so it helps to ask. Our cost guide covers typical prices and ways to keep them down.

Find a clinic that accepts your cover

Use our physio directory and filter by funding to find clinics that accept private health rebates, DVA, NDIS or workers compensation. Always confirm with the clinic before you book, since arrangements can change.

Common questions

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or physio about your own situation.