Description
A physiotherapist is a healthcare professional that assesses, diagnoses, treats and works to prevent disease and disability through movement and exercise. Physiotherapists are experts in body movement and function. They work with people affected by injury, illness or disability to help them improve the movement and functioning of their body.
Services provided
- Assessment, diagnosis and treatment services for movement issues
- Development of treatment programs
- Development of exercise programs
- Injury treatment
- Manual therapy, such as massage and joint manipulation
- Electrotherapy, such as ultrasound and TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
- Technique correction
- Taping and splinting
- Advice on mobility aids
Eligibility
Appointments may be made directly without a doctor's referral.
Your doctor or other health professional may also refer you to a physiotherapist.
How to access
Go to the Australian Physiotherapy to find a physiotherapist near you.
Costs
Physiotherapist services may be partly or fully covered by Medicare.
Physiotherapist’s fees are covered by some private health funds, but the amount will depend on your insurance policy. Contact your insurer for more information.
Profile
Sector
Conventional healthcare.Regulation
Regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA).Registration
Physiotherapists must be registered through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.Minimum qualifications
The minimum education requirement for a physiotherapist is a Bachelors or Masters Degree in Physiotherapy.Tip
Take results of any tests with you (such as x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs).
Complaints
- Health Complaints , Complaints and Information, call 1300 582 113
- Australian Health Practitioner Regulation (AHPRA) in your state, call 1300 419 495
- Better Health Channel - Complaints about health services