Physiotherapy

What are physiotherapy services?

Physiotherapists treat physical, respiratory and neurological conditions using techniques such as massage, manipulation and exercise.

Who is eligible?

If you have a Repatriation Health Card – For All Conditions (Gold Card), the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) will pay for your physiotherapy services, upon referral, to meet a clinical need.

If you have a Repatriation Health Card – For Specific Conditions (White Card), DVA will pay for your physiotherapy services, upon referral, to meet a clinical need that is an accepted disability, or malignant cancer, pulmonary tuberculosis, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or anxiety and depression, if DVA has accepted responsibility for the treatment of these conditions.

How do I get access to this service?

You must be referred to a physiotherapist who is participating in arrangements with the Repatriation Commission. The referral must come from one of the following professionals:

  • a Local Medical Officer (LMO)
  • a General Practitioner
  • a medical specialist
  • a treating doctor in hospital
  • a hospital discharge planner
  • another physiotherapist who has previously received a referral.

How many services can I have?

The number of services you receive depends on your clinical need.

Do I need to pay?

No. Your physiotherapist will bill DVA directly for any care provided to you. If you are billed, do not pay the account, and advise DVA immediately.

On your first visit

The following table shows what happens on your first visit to a physiotherapist:

  • 1 The physiotherapist: assesses your need for physiotherapy prepares a written care plan for the period of your care that they discuss with you.
  • 2 You will be required to sign a service voucher at the completion of each visit. Before you sign, please check that the service voucher shows your name, file number, date of treatment, and item number.
    Note:   If you are unable to sign, a member of your family or the physiotherapist may sign on your behalf.
  • 3 The physiotherapist will give you a copy of the service voucher.

See: Physiotherapy Services