The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has used its 2021-2022 pre-budget submission to urge the federal government to fund team-based, integrated care to ensure Australians get the most appropriate and effective care.

APA National President Scott Willis said it is vital that physiotherapy is included in funding in the primary care setting to support our post COVID recovery.

“The COVID crisis clearly demonstrated the need for more connected healthcare options and this opens a new policy window to reshape our health system,” Mr Willis said.

The extension of Stage 4 restrictions in Melbourne which only allow allied health treatment for patients meeting extremely narrow criteria is causing distress and potential long term harm to patients. The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) is calling on the Victorian government to ease these restrictions and enable physios to treat patients who need their care.