PALMS PHYSIOTHERAPY & ALLIED HEALTH
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📞9376 1443 - Noranda 📞6285 6185 - Malaga
Medicare Care Plans & GP Chronic Condition Management
Exercise Physiology with Medicare Rebates - Perth
Allied Health Therapies for Medicare Care Plan clients - Clinic & Mobile Visits
Looking for high-quality allied health services with Medicare rebates? At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we proudly accept Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Care Plans – also known as EPC referrals – across Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology & Exercise Physiology.
We help you make the most of your referral with flexible session lengths, easy claiming & a bulk-billing option for clients experiencing financial hardship.
Exercise Physiology Services Under Medicare in Perth
Exercise Physiology Services Under Medicare in Perth
At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we provide clinic-based exercise physiology services in Perth for eligible clients referred under a GP chronic condition management plan. Our exercise physiologists support children, adults and older adults with practical, individualised exercise programs aimed at improving strength, endurance, physical function, confidence with movement and participation in everyday life.
Exercise physiology may be relevant for people experiencing:
reduced strength or endurance
deconditioning after illness, injury, surgery or inactivity
chronic health conditions affecting physical function
reduced confidence with movement or exercise
difficulty maintaining activity levels
rehabilitation needs related to function and capacity
Our approach is focused on practical, goal-directed support that is tailored to the individual’s needs and day-to-day life.
Can exercise physiology be accessed through Medicare?
Can exercise physiology be accessed through Medicare?
Yes — for eligible patients, exercise physiology services may be accessed through Medicare when a valid referral is provided under a GP chronic condition management plan. The current MBS item for exercise physiology under this pathway is 10953.
The MBS states that the patient must have a chronic condition and complex care needs, the service must be recommended in the patient’s plan, and the appointment must be at least 20 minutes in duration.
Medicare benefits are only available where the patient meets eligibility requirements and has a valid referral from their GP or prescribed medical practitioner.
What is a GP chronic condition management plan?
What is a GP chronic condition management plan?
A GP chronic condition management plan (GPCCMP) is the current Medicare care plan pathway for eligible patients with a chronic condition. It allows a GP or prescribed medical practitioner to coordinate care and refer the patient to allied health services where appropriate.
The old GP Management Plan and Team Care Arrangement system was replaced from 1 July 2025, although older plans written before that date can still be used until 30 June 2027.
How exercise physiology may help
How exercise physiology may help
Strength and endurance
Strength and endurance
Exercise physiology may assist people who want support to improve physical capacity, stamina and tolerance for everyday activities.
Chronic condition support
Chronic condition support
Exercise physiology may be relevant for some people living with chronic conditions where structured, individualised exercise is appropriate as part of broader management.
Rehabilitation and recovery
Rehabilitation and recovery
Exercise physiology may help with graded return to exercise and activity after illness, injury, surgery, hospitalisation or a period of reduced activity.
Physical function and movement confidence
Physical function and movement confidence
For some people, exercise physiology may assist with building confidence in movement, improving conditioning, and supporting participation in daily life.
Healthy ageing and activity support
Healthy ageing and activity support
Older adults may benefit from tailored exercise support to help maintain strength, endurance, mobility and general physical function.
Clinic-based Medicare exercise physiology
Clinic-based Medicare exercise physiology
This page is for clinic-based Medicare exercise physiology. Clinic appointments may suit people who:
prefer a structured exercise setting
benefit from access to equipment and supervised therapy spaces
want support in a dedicated clinical environment
are attending for rehabilitation, chronic condition support or capacity-building exercise
Clinic-based exercise physiology can also make it easier to coordinate support with other allied health services where needed.
Who may be eligible?
Who may be eligible?
Eligibility depends on Medicare rules and the referring medical practitioner’s clinical judgment. The MBS states that the patient must have:
a chronic condition and complex care needs
a current GP chronic condition management plan prepared or reviewed in the last 18 months, or an eligible older plan during the transition period
a referral for exercise physiology as part of the management of that chronic condition.
Services Australia’s Medicare billing rules also state that patients are eligible where the medical practitioner has billed a GP chronic condition management plan item, and older GP management plans / team care arrangements in place before 1 July 2025 can continue until 30 June 2027.
How many Medicare exercise physiology sessions can I get?
How many Medicare exercise physiology sessions can I get?
Medicare allows a maximum of 5 individual allied health services per calendar year under this pathway. These sessions are shared across eligible allied health disciplines, not 5 exercise physiology sessions specifically. That means your total 5 sessions may be split across services such as exercise physiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology, depending on your referral and needs.
Session length and billing
Session length and billing
Under the MBS rules, an exercise physiology service billed under item 10953 must be at least 20 minutes in duration. The current MBS schedule fee for item 10953 is $72.65, with a Medicare benefit of $61.80.
Please note: Eligible clients may access 20-minute Medicare exercise physiology consultations by request during selected clinic hours. Longer appointments are also available where more comprehensive assessment, treatment or support is needed.
Medicare rebates are subject to eligibility, referral and item requirements, and out-of-pocket costs may apply depending on appointment length and billing arrangements.
Payment is required in full on the day of service for all Medicare appointments. We process your Medicare claim immediately after your appointment, and your rebate is typically returned by Medicare later that day, depending on Medicare processing times. Medicare’s chronic condition allied health billing rules are set by Services Australia.
Our approach
Our approach
At Palms, we focus on practical, individualised exercise physiology support. That means exercise programs are built around what matters most in everyday life, whether that is:
improving strength or endurance
becoming more active again after illness or surgery
supporting long-term physical function
improving confidence with movement
building a sustainable exercise routine
We also work as part of a broader allied health team, so where appropriate, clients may be able to access coordinated support across exercise physiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology.
Looking for Medicare exercise physiology in Perth?
Looking for Medicare exercise physiology in Perth?
Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health provides clinic-based exercise physiology services for eligible clients referred under a GP chronic condition management plan.
Contact our team to discuss referrals, appointment options, and whether exercise physiology may be suitable for your needs.
Please note:
We offer 20-minute gap-free Medicare consultations for eligible clients, available by request between 10:00am and 2:00pm, Monday to Friday. Outside these times, standard private fees apply.
We offer flexible appointment lengths from 20 to 90 minutes, depending on your needs and the therapy required. For clients needing more comprehensive assessment or treatment, we generally recommend booking a longer session with a small out-of-pocket cost, rather than a 20-minute gap-free appointment.
Payment is required in full on the day of service for all Medicare appointments. We process your Medicare claim immediately after your appointment, and your full Medicare rebate is typically paid back to you later that day.
Who We Support
Who We Support
We support children, adults and older adults with disability, injury, chronic conditions, developmental concerns, communication needs, mobility challenges and rehabilitation goals.
Get Help Today
Get Help Today
At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our experienced team is here to help children and adults manage their sensory condition and improve their quality of life.
Book an Appointment: Click Here
Contact Us: Click Here
FAQ
FAQ
Can I get exercise physiology through Medicare?
Can I get exercise physiology through Medicare?
Yes, if you are eligible and have a valid referral under a GP chronic condition management plan. Exercise physiology is covered under MBS item 10953 for eligible patients.
What is the Medicare item number for exercise physiology?
What is the Medicare item number for exercise physiology?
The Medicare item for exercise physiology under the chronic condition management allied health pathway is 10953.
How many Medicare exercise physiology sessions can I have?
How many Medicare exercise physiology sessions can I have?
Eligible patients can generally access up to 5 individual allied health services per calendar year under this pathway. These are shared across eligible allied health disciplines, not just exercise physiology.
Do I need a referral?
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A valid referral from a GP or prescribed medical practitioner is required under a GP chronic condition management plan.
How long does a Medicare exercise physiology appointment need to be?
How long does a Medicare exercise physiology appointment need to be?
For item 10953, the MBS requires the service to be at least 20 minutes long.
Is this the same as EPC or CDM?
Is this the same as EPC or CDM?
Those are older terms. The current Medicare term is GP chronic condition management plan, although some older GP Management Plans and Team Care Arrangements remain valid until 30 June 2027.
Will Medicare cover the full appointment fee?
Will Medicare cover the full appointment fee?
Not always. Medicare provides a rebate for eligible services, but out-of-pocket costs may still apply depending on the clinic’s billing arrangements and the appointment type. The current Medicare benefit for item 10953 is $61.80.
Can children use Medicare exercise physiology?
Can children use Medicare exercise physiology?
Potentially, yes, if they meet eligibility requirements and have the correct referral. Eligibility is determined by the referring medical practitioner and Medicare rules.
Do you offer longer appointments than 20 minutes?
Do you offer longer appointments than 20 minutes?
Yes. While the Medicare item requires a minimum of 20 minutes, longer appointments may be more suitable when a person needs more comprehensive assessment, treatment or support. Billing arrangements can vary depending on appointment length and clinic policy.
FAQ: How to Access Medicare-Funded Allied Health Sessions through a TCA or GPMP
FAQ: How to Access Medicare-Funded Allied Health Sessions through a TCA or GPMP
1. What is a Team Care Arrangement (TCA) or GP Management Plan (GPMP)?
A Team Care Arrangement (TCA) and GP Management Plan (GPMP) are programs under Medicare that allow patients with chronic medical conditions to access a range of allied health services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and exercise physiology. These plans are created by your GP to coordinate care between your general practitioner and other healthcare providers.
1. What is a Team Care Arrangement (TCA) or GP Management Plan (GPMP)?
A Team Care Arrangement (TCA) and GP Management Plan (GPMP) are programs under Medicare that allow patients with chronic medical conditions to access a range of allied health services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and exercise physiology. These plans are created by your GP to coordinate care between your general practitioner and other healthcare providers.
2. Am I eligible for a TCA or GPMP?
To qualify for a TCA or GPMP, you must have a chronic medical condition that has been present for six months or longer. This may include conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or musculoskeletal disorders. It’s important to note that eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is at the discretion of your GP. Your GP will evaluate your medical history and determine whether you qualify for these plans.
2. Am I eligible for a TCA or GPMP?
To qualify for a TCA or GPMP, you must have a chronic medical condition that has been present for six months or longer. This may include conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or musculoskeletal disorders. It’s important to note that eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is at the discretion of your GP. Your GP will evaluate your medical history and determine whether you qualify for these plans.
3. How do I get a TCA or GPMP?
3. How do I get a TCA or GPMP?
To get a TCA or GPMP, you need to book an appointment with your GP. During your visit, discuss your chronic condition and how allied health services might support your treatment plan. If your GP agrees, they will create a GP Management Plan (GPMP) and/or a Team Care Arrangement (TCA). They will refer you for up to five allied health sessions per year, depending on your condition and healthcare needs.
4. What allied health services can I access under a TCA or GPMP?
4. What allied health services can I access under a TCA or GPMP?
With a TCA or GPMP, you may be eligible to access allied health services such as:
Physiotherapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Exercise physiology
The number of sessions allowed is typically up to five per year, but this may vary depending on your needs and the advice of your GP.
5. Is the cost of allied health services covered under Medicare with a TCA or GPMP?
5. Is the cost of allied health services covered under Medicare with a TCA or GPMP?
Medicare may cover the cost of your allied health sessions, but this will depend on the clinic’s billing policy. Some clinics bulk bill for these services, while others may charge a gap fee. It is important to confirm the payment structure when booking your appointment.
6. Can I see any allied health professional for my TCA or GPMP?
6. Can I see any allied health professional for my TCA or GPMP?
While your GP will refer you to allied health professionals as part of the plan, you can choose from a range of qualified providers. Be sure to confirm with the clinic whether they are Medicare-registered and accept TCA or GPMP referrals.
7. Can I request a longer session if I need more time with the therapist?
7. Can I request a longer session if I need more time with the therapist?
If you require more time with your therapist, you can choose to pay a gap fee for longer sessions. Under Medicare, your sessions for TCA or GPMP are usually limited to a shorter duration (e.g., 20 minutes). If you would like additional time to fully address your chronic condition, speak to the clinic staff about arranging an extended session for an additional cost.
8. How often can I access Medicare-funded allied health services under a TCA or GPMP?
8. How often can I access Medicare-funded allied health services under a TCA or GPMP?
You can access up to five sessions per year for each chronic condition that is covered under your TCA or GPMP. However, these sessions are reviewed annually by your GP. If your condition improves or worsens, your GP may adjust the plan accordingly.
9. What should I do if my GP doesn't think I am eligible for a TCA or GPMP?
9. What should I do if my GP doesn't think I am eligible for a TCA or GPMP?
If your GP determines that you are not eligible for a TCA or GPMP, you can discuss alternative options for managing your chronic condition. Many clinics offer private appointments or can direct you to other forms of support and care that may be more suitable for your needs.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you’re unsure which facility, service, or technology is the right fit, our team can guide you based on your goals and presentation.
Exercise Physiology in Perth – Expert Rehabilitation & Chronic Disease Management
Exercise Physiology in Perth – Expert Rehabilitation & Chronic Disease Management
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise Physiology involves the use of clinical exercise interventions to prevent or manage chronic diseases, rehabilitate injuries, and improve physical function. Our accredited exercise physiologists at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health work with individuals of all ages, whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic illness, or looking to improve your overall health.
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise Physiology involves the use of clinical exercise interventions to prevent or manage chronic diseases, rehabilitate injuries, and improve physical function. Our accredited exercise physiologists at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health work with individuals of all ages, whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic illness, or looking to improve your overall health.
How Can Exercise Physiology Help You?
Exercise physiology is a science-backed approach that provides a wide range of benefits, including:
How Can Exercise Physiology Help You?
Exercise physiology is a science-backed approach that provides a wide range of benefits, including:
Chronic Disease Management: Tailored exercise programs to manage conditions like Type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain.
Injury Rehabilitation: Post-surgical or injury recovery programs to restore strength, mobility, and function.
Exercise for Disabilities: NDIS-supported exercise programs for individuals with disabilities, aimed at improving independence and quality of life.
Weight Management and General Fitness: Programs designed to support weight loss, fitness improvement, and long-term health goals.
Our Exercise Physiology Services
Our Exercise Physiology Services
At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our Exercise Physiology services are tailored to meet the unique needs of every client:
Chronic Disease Management
Exercise is critical in managing conditions like Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Our exercise physiologists design evidence-based programs to help you stay active, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of further complications. Bulk billing is available through Medicare for eligible patients.Injury Rehabilitation
Whether you’re recovering from a motor vehicle accident (MVA), workers’ compensation injury, or surgery, our exercise physiologists will work closely with you to create a rehabilitation plan that promotes healing, reduces pain, and restores mobility.Exercise for Disabilities (NDIS)
We offer tailored exercise programs for individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). These programs help people with disabilities improve strength, coordination, and functional capacity to increase independence and participation in daily activities.Weight Loss & Fitness Programs
For clients looking to improve their fitness, manage weight, or address conditions related to obesity, our exercise physiologists design personalized exercise programs based on your goals, current fitness level, and medical history.
Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health for Exercise Physiology?
Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health for Exercise Physiology?
Experienced, Accredited Exercise Physiologists: Our team is qualified, experienced, and passionate about helping individuals achieve their health goals.
Medicare Bulk Billing Available: Eligible clients can access Medicare-funded sessions, making our services affordable.
NDIS Provider: We support individuals with disabilities through the NDIS framework, offering inclusive and effective exercise programs. We can see plan and self managed participants.
Multi-Disciplinary Team: Our exercise physiologists work alongside physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists to offer a holistic approach to care.
Sensory Room and Kids Therapy Gym
Our state-of-the-art sensory room and kids therapy gym are designed to provide sensory integration therapy and gross motor development in a fun and safe environment. These spaces are equipped with a trampoline, climbing frames, swings, and other tools to help children and adults with sensory processing challenges or developmental delays.
Sensory Room and Kids Therapy Gym
Our state-of-the-art sensory room and kids therapy gym are designed to provide sensory integration therapy and gross motor development in a fun and safe environment. These spaces are equipped with a trampoline, climbing frames, swings, and other tools to help children and adults with sensory processing challenges or developmental delays.
Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health for Exercise Physiology?
Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health for Exercise Physiology?
Qualified and experienced occupational therapists with a passion for helping people
State-of-the-art facilities, including sensory rooms and rehabilitation gyms
Tailored therapy plans for all ages and abilities
NDIS provider offering individual and group sessions (plan and self managed participants)
Multidisciplinary team working alongside physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, and speech therapists
Browse Our Services by Therapy Area
Browse Our Services by Therapy Area
Find the right support by discipline, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, exercise physiology and other allied health services.
How We Can Help
How We Can Help
At Palms Allied Health, our dedicated therapists provide personalised care to both children and adults. Our services include:
Children: Helping children with developmental delays, sensory processing issues, and other challenges to improve their ability to perform daily activities and succeed in school and play.
Adults: Assisting adults in regaining independence and functionality after injuries, illnesses, or surgeries, and helping manage chronic conditions to improve overall quality of life.
NDIS Participants: We are able to work with you to help meet your goals through the NDIS. We are currently able to see participants that are self-managed or plan-managed.
Private Patients: Customised therapy plans tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.
Medicare Care Plan Patients: Coordinated care plans that integrate occupational therapy to enhance overall treatment.
Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA): Specialised programs to support veterans in managing health conditions and improving daily living skills.
Workers Compensation Injury: Rehabilitation programs designed to help injured workers return to their jobs safely and effectively.
Motor Vehicle Accident Injury: Comprehensive therapy to aid in recovery and restore functional independence.
Explore Our Services & Facilities
Explore Our Services & Facilities
Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health offers a range of therapy services and specialised supports. You can browse by therapy area, explore specialised services, or learn more about the facilities and equipment we use in-clinic .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Exercise Physiology
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Exercise Physiology
Q: What is the role of an exercise physiologist?
Q: What is the role of an exercise physiologist?
An exercise physiologist designs and implements clinical exercise programs to help individuals prevent or manage chronic diseases, recover from injury, and improve their overall health. Unlike personal trainers, they work with patients who have specific health conditions or physical limitations.
An exercise physiologist designs and implements clinical exercise programs to help individuals prevent or manage chronic diseases, recover from injury, and improve their overall health. Unlike personal trainers, they work with patients who have specific health conditions or physical limitations.
Q: What conditions can exercise physiology help manage?
Q: What conditions can exercise physiology help manage?
Exercise physiology can assist with the management of several chronic conditions, including:
Cardiovascular disease
Osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders
Respiratory conditions like COPD
Neurological disorders, including Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson's Disease (PD)
Q: Is exercise physiology covered by Medicare?
Q: Is exercise physiology covered by Medicare?
Yes, exercise physiology is covered by Medicare for eligible patients. You’ll need a referral from your GP under a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM), which allows you to access up to 5 subsidized sessions. There is another plan that enables you to 8 x Medicare sessions of exercise if you are a Type 2 Diabetic.
Q: How is exercise physiology different from physiotherapy?
While both exercise physiologists and physiotherapists work to improve physical health, exercise physiology focuses on designing exercise programs for chronic disease management and fitness improvement. Physiotherapy tends to focus on hands-on treatment and rehabilitation after injuries or surgeries.
Q: How is exercise physiology different from physiotherapy?
While both exercise physiologists and physiotherapists work to improve physical health, exercise physiology focuses on designing exercise programs for chronic disease management and fitness improvement. Physiotherapy tends to focus on hands-on treatment and rehabilitation after injuries or surgeries.
Q: Can I access exercise physiology under NDIS?
Yes, Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is a NDIS provider, and our exercise physiology services are available for individuals with NDIS funding. We work with people with disabilities to create exercise programs that improve strength, mobility, and independence. We can see participants who are self or plan managed.
Q: Can I access exercise physiology under NDIS?
Yes, Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is a NDIS provider, and our exercise physiology services are available for individuals with NDIS funding. We work with people with disabilities to create exercise programs that improve strength, mobility, and independence. We can see participants who are self or plan managed.
Q: Can exercise physiologists help with weight loss?
Q: Can exercise physiologists help with weight loss?
Yes, our exercise physiologists create tailored exercise programs to support weight loss and improve overall fitness. We take into account your health status, medical history, and personal goals to ensure the program is safe and effective.
External Resources for Exercise Physiology in Australia
External Resources for Exercise Physiology in Australia
Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA)
https://www.essa.org.au
The peak body for exercise physiology in Australia. Provides information for the public about exercise physiology services and professional standards.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
https://www.ndis.gov.au
Information on how NDIS participants can access exercise physiology services.
Diabetes Australia
https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au
Learn more about how exercise can help manage Type 2 Diabetes, with resources and guidelines for patients.
Heart Foundation Australia
https://www.heartfoundation.org.au
Resources and programs for managing cardiovascular health, including exercise recommendations.
Arthritis Australia
https://www.arthritisaustralia.com.au
Learn about managing arthritis through exercise, with detailed guides and support options.
Better Health Channel (Victoria)
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
Offers comprehensive information on the role of exercise in managing chronic conditions, injury rehabilitation, and general health.
Clinic Based Exercise Physiology Areas Serviced
Clinic Based Exercise Physiology Areas Serviced
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