TELEHEALTH

Telehealth

Keeping you connected if you can't attend our clinic.

Telehealth is a means of providing physiotherapy services which can occur over the phone, or via video call utilising a smart phone, desktop/laptop or iPad/tablet with a camera attached. Telehealth enables your physiotherapist to assess and diagnose your condition/injury when you are unable to attend a face-to-face consultation, and has been shown to be both safe and effective. It also allows for the provision of appropriate exercises and education/advice to best help you manage your condition.  
How does Telehealth work with physiotherapy?
 
Physiowest is currently offering Telehealth through an App called PhysiApp, which free to use. Your physiotherapist can provide education, demonstration of exercises and exercise program prescription through video chat. 
How will my appointment work?
 
If you are currently a patient at Physiowest, you can chat to your physiotherapist about organising Telehealth for your future appointments should you choose to not attend the clinic. Your physiotherapist will send you a link to join via the app (PhysiApp) where you will have your Telehealth consultation. Please ensure you are available 5-10 minutes before the time of your appointment to set up the app, camera and microphone on your device.
 
How does payment work for Telehealth?

  • If you are a WorkCover client, Telehealth will be covered under your current claim
  • If you are being treated under a GP Medicare EPC referral your Telehealth session will be bulk billed.
  • If you are a TAC client, Telehealth will be covered under your current claim
  • If you are a privately-paying client, you may receive benefits from a range of private health insurance companies which is expected to commence from April 14, 2020 provided that:
- you are an existing client of Physiowest and seen your physiotherapist within the last 6 months for treatment​
- new clients or those not seen for six months or more require a referral from your GP or medical specialist and the primary condition being treated is one of (this will include most of our current clients):​​
   •  Post-orthopaedic surgery rehabilitation (eg. Total hip/knee replacement)​
   •  Chronic musculoskeletal condition (eg. Osteoarthritis, chronic back pain)
   •  Cardiac rehabilitation
   •  Pulmonary rehabilitation 
   •  Pelvic floor muscle training 
   •  You will need to pay for your Telehealth consultation in full over the phone and then claim the usual rebate/refund from your health fund with the receipt provided.

Physiowest has reduced it’s usual Physiotherapy fee for Telehealth to $65 per consultation.


PhysiApp
What equipment do I need?
 
Smart phone, laptop, tablet/iPad or desktop computer with a video camera and microphone, as well as stable internet connection. Home gym equipment is not required.
 

What happens if you don't have internet/camera?
 
Talk to your physiotherapist, who will organise a consultation over the phone if suitable.

How long will my appointment last?
 
Telehealth is currently available during the clinic's opening hours and will take +61393630611 minutes.

What clothing do I wear for my Telehealth consult?
 
We recommend wearing loose fitting clothing that you will feel comfortable in to perform exercise. If possible, please wear a singlet for an upper body complaint, and shorts for a lower body complaint, to allow for an easier assessment by your physiotherapist.
 
Physiowest is striving to continue to provide our clients with the care they require over this difficult time by providing either in-clinic appointments, online group exercise, Telehealth appointments or a phone call at any time to discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have.
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