Is Hydrotherapy Covered by Medicare?
Many people use hydrotherapy, either on its own or as part of their physiotherapy plan. Hydrotherapy in its current form has been used for hundreds of years, though it may even be traced back to ancient Greek, Egyptian, and Roman times. But even with such an extensive history and a long list of potential benefits, is hydrotherapy covered by Medicare?
This blog explores hydrotherapy and determines whether or not it is covered by Medicare in Australia. For personalised advice, contact our team at Muscle Joint Bone today.
What is Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a form of therapy that uses water in any of its forms, including ice and steam, in an effort to promote health and address disease. It’s sometimes known as aquatic therapy, as many forms of hydrotherapy take place in pools.
While pool hydrotherapy is probably the most well-known form, it can also include methods such as cold compresses and steam therapies, so it doesn’t necessarily mean submerging your body in water. Depending on the specific issue being addressed, hydrotherapy may also include hot and cold baths, whirlpool therapy, hydrotherapy showers, sitz baths, and more.
What is Hydrotherapy Used For?
Hydrotherapy is often used for a wide range of reasons, including pain management, rehabilitation from surgery or an injury, and improving general mobility. This is because water has therapeutic properties, such as its warmth and buoyancy, making it a great way to potentially soothe sore muscles, reduce joint stiffness, and help with relaxation.
People with chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and many other conditions may also benefit from hydrotherapy’s gentle nature. It’s often used as part of a holistic treatment plan, where the aim is to restore function, reduce pain, and improve a person’s quality of life.
Hydrotherapy is often used when somebody can’t bear weight on the affected area, such as with a broken leg or ankle. Water allows buoyancy, helping you to move freely and without the pressure on your joints that often comes with rehabilitation on land. This tends to make it easier to do exercises that would otherwise be too difficult, or perhaps even impossible.
Overall, hydrotherapy provides a gentle way to potentially rebuild strength and improve range of motion, all in a controlled environment. For people recovering from surgery or an injury, hydrotherapy may help to accelerate the healing process and have you back on your feet sooner.
Is Hydrotherapy Covered by Medicare?
You may be able to claim hydrotherapy services through:
Medicare
Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy. In Australia, physiotherapy may be covered under a Chronic Care Management Plan, depending on the reason you’d like to use physiotherapy as part of your treatment plan. Under a Chronic Care Management Plan, you may be able to claim up to five physiotherapy sessions (including hydrotherapy) under Medicare per year.
The way to get a Chronic Care Management Plan is through your GP. They will help to determine your eligibility and write a plan for you.
NDIS
Hydrotherapy may also be covered under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This is dependent on whether you have an NDIS plan, and if so, if your plan covers physiotherapy. If hydrotherapy is covered under your NDIS plan, it will likely be part of Improved Daily Living Skills or Improved Health and Wellbeing. If you’re unsure what your plan covers, check with your local area coordinator or other NDIS contact.
Other providers
You may also be able to access hydrotherapy through TAC, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Worksafe, or your private health cover. These are also dependent on your specific circumstances and levels of cover, so ensure you check your eligibility with your provider first.
Move Your Body with Muscle Joint Bone
At Muscle Joint Bone, we’re dedicated to assisting you through physiotherapy. Whether you’re dealing with an injury, suffering from a chronic condition, or simply want to move more freely in your daily life, we’re here for you! To find out more or to book an appointment, contact us today.