A physiotherapist (‘physio’) is a registered health provider who can diagnose and treat pain or injury and improve how the body moves. Physios can help you manage a wide range of musculoskeletal (muscles, bones and joints) conditions in the body. A physiotherapist may assess and treat your condition through various techniques, such as hands on treatment, movement and exercise.
Providers
Physiotherapists
FAQs
You don’t need a referral to see a physio, but a GP can help you with a recommendation.
If you are a Bupa member, you can find a physio by using our Find a provider tool. For most physio consultations with Members First providers, you may get more money back.*
To find a physio near you:
- Visit the Bupa Members First Network.
- Select extras.
- Select physiotherapy from the dropdown menu under extras type.
- Enter your current location to find a physiotherapist near you.
If you’re not with Bupa:
If you’re not with Bupa, you can use the Australian Physiotherapy Association’s (APA) Find a physio search tool.
Bupa is not associated with or sponsored by APA.
Your physio can help you with your pain and any injuries and improve the way your muscles, bones and joints work. Physio treatments aim to encourage you to be actively involved in your own care, help find the underlying factors causing the problem and give you the tools to maintain and prevent any future problems.
Some musculoskeletal conditions that physios treat include:
- neck and neck pain
- hip and knee pain
- shoulder pain
- sports injury recovery and prevention
- ligament sprains and muscle strains
- arthritis.
A physiotherapist assesses your condition to develop a personalised plan for recovery. At each appointment, they track your progress and if needed, they change or update your treatment.
Physios also work with a range of hands-on and exercise based techniques, including:
- soft tissue massage of muscles, tendons or ligaments
- exercise therapy and rehabilitation
- muscle strength and conditioning training
- joint mobilisation therapy
- manipulation of the neck or spine
- stretching
- core stability training.
Physios treat a broad range of conditions; it is important to find one that’s the best for you. You can find this information on their website or by giving their clinic a call.
You may be covered for physio treatment if you have eligible extras cover that includes physiotherapy. The gap (what you pay out-of-pocket) will depend on your cover and your physio’s fees.
For most physio consultations with Members First providers, you may get more money back.*
If you’re a Bupa health insurance member, you can check your cover online.
Generally, physiotherapy is not covered under Medicare. But, you could be eligible for a Medicare rebate with a relevant GP referral. If you have a chronic condition, your GP may refer you under a plan, such as a GP Management Plan (GPMP) or Team Care Arrangement (TCA). Speak to your GP to see if you are eligible.
Get more from your cover
Talk to a Bupa health coach to help manage your condition
If you're living with a long-term medical condition such as osteoarthritis or diabetes, need support to get back on track, or just want to find a healthier you, Bupa’s health coaching program is here to help. Get information or advice from a qualified nurse or dietitian at times that suit you.
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This program provides resources and health information as a guide only, not as a substitute for medical advice or a professional endorsement. If you think you have a medical emergency, call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department.
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*Depending on your level of cover, for most services at our Members First extras providers covering dental, physiotherapy, chiropractic and podiatry consultations. Bupa has Members First providers for these services. Not available in all areas. Yearly limits, benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, fund and policy rules apply.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.