Is physiotherapy covered by Medicare?

In Australia, Medicare is Australia’s universal health insurance system. Medicare rebates help to reduce the burden of healthcare costs. Musculoskeletal pain is a common problem, and many people ask whether services such as physio are covered by Medicare. Since the 01^st of July 2025, there have been changes to Medicare chronic disease management plans which cover allied health services. These were previously known as Medicare or Chronic Disease Management Plans, GP Management Plans, Enhanced Primary Care Plans or Team Care Arrangements. In this post we explain how and when physio is covered by Medicare.

These are the steps to follow for Medicare subsidised physiotherapy:

1. Make sure you are enrolled in Medicare. You must have a Medicare card to accept Medicare benefits. If you do not have a Medicare card, you can apply via this link. 
2. Meet eligibility criteria. The pathway to accessing Medicare-subsidised physiotherapy is through a GP chronic condition management plan (GPCCMP). 
3. Book an appointment with your GP. They will determine if your musculoskeletal condition meets the criteria. 
4. Receive a referral to physiotherapy from your GP. Bring your Medicare Card, GP referral letter and any other relevant information or scan results to your physio appointment. 
5. Choose your physio. At MyPhysio, we require you to pay for the appointment in full. We will process the Medicare rebate on the day for you (provided you bring your Medicare card), so that your rebate is immediately deposited into your bank account.

FAQs

How many sessions are covered by Medicare?

Medicare rebates up to 5 allied health services per calendar year. This covers services such as physiotherapy, dietetics or podiatry. You can decide whether you want to allocate all of these to physiotherapy or whether you want to divide them up between various disciplines. However, it is important you keep track of how many visits you’ve had. You can check your history using the care plan service history functions in your Medicare online account. 

How long does a referral last?

Referrals now last for 18 months and can be renewed by your GP annually.

How much is the gap fee?

The Medicare rebate is currently $61.80 which results in an out of pocket gap fee of $47.20 for a standard consult. If you have a seniors card, low-income healthcare card or are on a disability pension, we are pleased to be able to offer limited weekday sessions at a heavily subsidised fee of $30. Please call the clinic on 9447 6152, or email duncraig@myphysioperth.com.au requesting a Medicare $30 gap fee appointment.

What is a chronic condition?

A chronic condition is something that has been bothering you long term and involves lasting conditions. A chronic medical condition is considered to be one that has been or is likely to be present for at least six months. Some examples include back pain, post-surgical rehabilitation, arthritis or osteoporosis.

How do I get started with Medicare subsidised physio?

Your first step is to see your GP.  They will determine whether your condition is eligible to claim for physiotherapy consultations under Medicare.  Once your eligibility has been determined and you have a letter of referral from your GP, call our friendly team on 9447 6152 or book online here.