Exercise Physiology FAQs 

Am I entitled to medicare rebates? 

An Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is a recognised provider of allied health services under the Enhanced Primary Care Plan (EPC). One is eligible for an Allied Health Care Plan if they are managing a chronic health condition. A chronic condition is any diagnosed medical condition that has been present for 3 months or more.

 

It is known that lifestyle factors are the strongest contributors to all cause chronic disease. Under an EPC plan, members of the community are eligible for the expert services of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist. Once an individual is on an Enhanced Primary Care Plan, the exercise physiologist will communicate and work in conjunction with the General Practitioner for the very best patient outcomes.

 

What is an Enhanced Primary Care Plan?

The EPC plan is a government initiative that allows people with chronic injuries or disease to access professional allied health services to assist with the management of their condition. Eligible patients are then entitled to a Medicare Rebate on those services. Under the care plan; patients are eligible for 5 services from allied health providers in a calendar year. If a GP specifies exercise physiology under the care plan, patients will be entitled to a $55.10 rebate per session through Medicare. All Exercise Physiologists at Empower are registered to provide these services.

 

What about Private Health Insurance? 

The services of an Exercise Physiologist are covered by many private health care providers. The gap you pay will be dependent on your provider and your level of cover. Click Here to find out if your private health insurer covers Exercise Physiology services.

 

I was injured at work. Can I see an Accredited Exercise Physiologist as a part of my recovery?  

Absolutely. Our Exercise Physiologists are registered to provide rehabilitation of work-related injuries under Workcover NSW. Click here for more information and to get the process underway.  

 

Exercise Physiology vs Physiotherapy vs Personal Training?

For the patient, it can be very confusing who to see and for what. With a more health conscious society and greater competition among health and fitness professionals, the lines can often be blurred by mixed or contrasting messages from different providers. Below is a summary to give some clarity as to what service you should seek.

 

Physiotherapy

• Acute stage injury 0 - 4 months.

• Taping, icing and other pain management techniques. 

• Improving and restoring range of motion through massage, dry needling, hands on therapy, joint manipulations and other modalities. 

• Restoring basic strength.

 

Exercise Physiology

• Exercise progressions to restore full function or increase physical capacity following injury.

• "Active modality" where patient is instructed what to do. AEP's do not treat with their hands.   

• Equipped to deal with medically diagnosed chronic disease, persisting pain and injury. 

• Will prescribe specific exercises to improve a number of parameters including strength, motor control and coordination, range of motion, and markers of metabolic health.

 

Personal Training

• Not an Allied Health professional.

• Qualified to work with apparently healthy or low risk populations

• Will work with clients to improve general fitness and improve body composition.