Type 2 Diabetes Exercise Classes - Diabetes Empowerment Program (DEP) Classes

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we offer Medicare-funded Exercise Physiology group sessions for adults living with Type 2 Diabetes.

Our Diabetes Empowerment Program is designed to help you feel more confident with exercise, improve strength and fitness, and support your overall diabetes management in a safe and supervised environment.

Eligible clients may be able to access:

• One initial individual Exercise Physiology assessment each calendar year

• Up to 8 Medicare-funded group exercise sessions each calendar year

• No out-of-pocket cost when sessions are bulk billed

All participants must complete an initial individual assessment before joining the group program. This helps us make sure the class is safe, appropriate and tailored to your current health, fitness level, goals and diabetes management needs.

How the Program Works

Step 1: See Your GP

Speak with your GP about whether you are eligible for Medicare-funded group Exercise Physiology sessions for Type 2 Diabetes.

Your GP will need to provide a referral for group allied health services for Type 2 Diabetes.

Step 2: Initial Individual Assessment

Before starting the group classes, you will complete an individual assessment with one of our Exercise Physiologists.

This appointment allows us to:

• Review your health history

• Discuss your diabetes management and exercise goals

• Assess your current fitness, strength and mobility

• Identify any risks or modifications needed

• Decide whether group exercise is suitable for you

For Exercise Physiology, the Medicare item for the in-person initial assessment is item 81110.

Step 3: Group Exercise Sessions

Once you have completed your assessment and are suitable for the program, you can attend up to 8 Medicare-funded group exercise sessions per calendar year.

These sessions are supervised by an Exercise Physiologist and may include:

• Strength training

• Balance and mobility exercises

• Cardiovascular fitness

• Education around safe exercise and diabetes management

• Support to build confidence with ongoing physical activity

Group sessions are run in small groups, allowing you to exercise safely with professional supervision.

Step 4: Communication With Your GP

At the end of the program, we provide communication back to your referring GP as required, so they are kept updated on your progress and ongoing recommendations.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible for this program if you:

• Are over 18 years of age

• Have Type 2 Diabetes

• Have a valid referral from your GP for group allied health services for Type 2 Diabetes

• Have a current GP chronic condition management plan, or an eligible existing GP Management Plan during the Medicare transition period

Your GP can confirm whether you are eligible and provide the required referral information.

Is This the Same as a Standard Medicare Care Plan?

No. This Type 2 Diabetes group program is different from the standard individual allied health sessions that people may access under a chronic condition referral.

The Type 2 Diabetes group program may allow eligible clients to access one initial assessment and up to 8 group sessions each calendar year. This is separate from the usual individual allied health sessions available under Medicare chronic condition arrangements.

We can also see clients under standard Medicare chronic condition referrals for individual Exercise Physiology or Physiotherapy appointments if that is more appropriate.

What to Bring

Please bring:

• Your GP referral

• Any relevant medical information

• A list of current medications

• Comfortable clothing and enclosed shoes

• Water bottle

• Blood glucose monitoring equipment if you usually use it

Location

Our Type 2 Diabetes Exercise Physiology program runs from our Malaga clinic.

Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health
Malaga Health Hub

How to Book

To get started, please contact our team and let us know you are interested in the Type 2 Diabetes Exercise Physiology program.

Phone: (08) 6285 6185
Or use our online booking/contact form and our team will help guide you through the next steps.

If you are unsure whether you have the correct referral, please contact us and we can help you check what is needed before your first appointment.

Important disclaimer: This webpage contains general information only and is not intended to be relied upon as personal clinical advice. While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, it may not reflect the most current research or your individual circumstances. Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health does not accept liability for decisions made based on this information without an individualised assessment by an appropriately qualified health professional. If you have concerns, please contact us to book an assessment or speak with your GP/medical team.