Exercise Physiology Service

How to see an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)

Exercise & Sports Science Australia Home (essa.org.au)

If you’re not currently seeing an Exercise Physiologist but are interested in doing so, there are multiple processes you can undergo:

Private referral

This is the easiest way to see an AEP as you can book directly without needing a referral from a GP or other health professional. This is great for those who want to start immediately or if you are seeking exercise guidance which is not covered by other compensable schemes such as Medicare, Workcover, DVA, NDIS, or Aged Care. This option is out-of-pocket; however, many private health insurance policies offer rebates for exercise physiology services – just check with your health insurance provider to understand your level of cover, any extras cover and any potential out-of-pocket expenses. This can reduce overall cost, making it more affordable to maintain regular sessions.

Medicare Doctor referral

Medicare provides a scheme called ‘Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan’ OR ‘Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) Plan’ which permits five allied health services per calendar year. If your doctor allocates 1 or more sessions under exercise physiology, costs can be partially covered under Medicare. Your GP will assess whether you are entitled to receive these sessions if you have a chronic medical or health condition.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Gold or White DVA card holders can access AEP services with a doctors’ referral. DVA covers the cost of these services to provide rehabilitation needs and managing overall health and function.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Individuals with a disability who have a NDIS plan may have access to AEP services as part of their support package. The services must be deemed ‘reasonable and necessary’ and included in your plan. Speak with your NDIS planner or coordinator to include exercise physiology is part of your treatment goals to help improve your quality of life. Waves currently accepts self-managed clients.

Workplace Health Programs

Many workplaces have employee health and wellness programs which includes access to exercise physiology services. These programs are designed to promote physical activity prevalence, prevent injuries and enhance overall employee health with benefits such as increased productivity and mental health. Check with your HR department to see if this is available to you!

Aged Care Services

Residents in aged care facilities or older adults who require extra support for mobility and independence goals can access AEP services if it is included in their aged care package. Exercise has been proven to help with function, mobility, quality of life, strength and overall health in older adults. Speak to an existing Aged Care Provider to get assessed for exercise physiology services.

Referral from Other Allied Health Professionals

Exercise physiology could be a good way to complement your treatment, if you’re already seeing another allied health professional for an ongoing health condition. This is a great way to build towards long-term progressions and establish healthy lifestyle habits.

• Anxiety or depression
• Cancer
• chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain and arthritis
• Heart disease
• Hypercholesterolemia
• Hypertension
• Neurological and neuromuscular conditions
• Osteoporosis
• Pre-diabetes or diabetes
• Weight gain or obesity.

We suggest you bring the following items to all appointments:

• Referral – a referral is only necessary if you are claiming for a chronic disease management (CDM) plan.
• Medication list – of all your current medications, vitamins, and supplements.
• Test results – including CT, X-ray, test results and pathology from the past 6–12 months.
• Discharge summaries or procedure reports if necessary.
• Comfortable clothing and enclosed footwear 

When first visiting Waves Exercise Physiology, all patients will be seen by an exercise physiologist for a thorough initial assessment to determine their individual needs. This assessment includes a review of your medical and treatment history, medications, current levels of physical activity and, importantly, your personal health goals

Medicare rebates may be available for allied health services for patients managing a chronic health condition. Please speak with your GP about your eligibility for a chronic disease management (CDM).

Please note there will be a gap between the Medicare rebate and our fees.

Private health rebates are available from most private health funds, depending on your level of cover. For more information, speak to your health fund directly about what’s covered in your policy. You might want to ask if Exercise Physiology is covered under your Extras Cover. 

Waves Exercise Physiology is not a bulk billing practice, so you will need to pay at the time of your consultation and claim from Medicare or your Insurer yourself.

New patients must bring details of your Claim Number, Insurer Details and contact details of your case manager.