Question 1

Do I need a referral from my GP?

Accepted Answer

No, you can make an appointment directly without a referral. If you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition and require complex care you may be eligible for Chronic Disease Management (CDM) assistance. The GP must complete a special referral form (PDF, 201kb) to refer you to an osteopath for treatment.

Question 2

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring along any X-rays, scans or test results that you may have.

Question 3

Am I required to arrive early for my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes you should arrive 10 minutes early for your first appointment as you will need to fill out initial paperwork.

Question 4

Why am I asked to complete paperwork?

Accepted Answer

An osteopath will need to record your medical history to assist in discussing treatment options. Under the law, an osteopath needs to obtain your approval to treat you, so you may be asked to sign an ‘informed consent’ form.

Question 5

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

It’s important that you feel comfortable, so wear a comfortable shirt and loose pants or bring a pair of shorts to change into.

Question 6

Do I have to remove my clothes?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the area of your body requiring treatment, your osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear. Your modesty is protected at all times and you will be covered with a towel when on the treatment table.

Question 7

Can I bring a friend or relative?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.

Question 8

What happens at my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your osteopath will ask about your problem and symptoms. This will include your medical history, any medications you are taking or other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem. Your osteopath will advise you if they can treat you or you need to be referred. Your osteopath will conduct an examination and clinical tests. These include diagnostic, orthopaedic or neurological tests, postural assessments and activities or exercises, which will help determine how best to manage your condition. The examination may include passive and active movements. The osteopath may lift your arms or legs and you may be asked to bend over or stand in your underwear. Be sure to wear comfortable, flexible and appropriate underwear. Osteopathy takes a whole of body approach to treatment. Your osteopath may look at the area that is troubling you as well as other parts of your body. For example if you have a sore knee, your osteopath may also look at your ankle, pelvis and back. Your osteopath may also provide education and advice to help you manage your condition between treatments. This may include giving you exercises to do at home or work.

Question 9

What if my condition changes over time?

Accepted Answer

It is important you tell your osteopath if your medical condition changes over time. This includes any new injuries or change of medications.

Question 10

Is osteopathic treatment painful?

Accepted Answer

Most osteopathic treatment is gentle and should not cause undue discomfort. If your injuries do require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, your osteopath will aim to make you as comfortable as possible. There are techniques which may cause some short term discomfort or pain. You may experience mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, similar to that felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly, call your osteopath to discuss your concerns.

Question 11

How long will my appointment take?

Accepted Answer

Your initial consultation may last up to one hour. This will enable your osteopath to take a thorough history, examine and depending upon your condition, treat you. Follow-up treatments last up to 45 minutes.

Question 12

How many appointments will I need?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your condition. Generally you would expect to see some changes in your symptoms after one or two visits. Long term or chronic conditions may require more treatment. Your osteopath will discuss this with you.

Question 13

Are there additional investigations or treatments?

Accepted Answer

Following treatment, your osteopath may decide that additional investigations such as X-ray, scans or blood tests are required. Your osteopath may refer you to another health professional.

Question 14

Do we treat DVA patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Osteopaths are registered with the Department of veteran Affairs to provide treatment to eligable DVA patients. The patient will need a 'D904' referral form from their GP which enables the osteopath to claim direct from the DVA.

Question 15

Is Osteopathy included within the ‘Enhanced Primary Care’ Medicare rebate scheme?

Accepted Answer

Yes, within the EPC, patients are entitled to up to 5 appointments per calendar year from a selection of registered allied health professionals. Click http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/mbsprimarycare-chronicdiseasemanagement for further details

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Fees

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