We have advocated strongly to secure a report writing fee in the fee schedule for allied health providers in recognition of the additional work involved in administering the initiative. DVA has agreed to a $30 fee and to creating a simple report template for allied health providers to use when reporting on their patients’ conditions to GPs.

While we support collaborative care, we do not support the rushed manner of the roll out, which is scheduled to begin on 1 July. We are concerned about serious consequences on veteran care, including:

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has urged the federal government to invest further funds into the allied health workforce in order to address the growing burden of chronic and complex disease in our communities.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) recognises that while there are positives in the 2019-2020 Federal Budget, further investment into primary care, beyond general practice, is necessary to sustain the workforce and improve patient outcomes.

The APA welcomes the investment of an additional $6 billion in Medicare from $25 billion in 2018–19 to $31 billion in 2022–23 to respond to recommendations from the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Review Taskforce.

John Contreras
APA Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist

Melbourne-based APA Sports and Exericse Physiotherapist John Contreras believes PHI Pilates reform will help differentiate the profession’s expertise from other health and fitness professionals.

The APA supports the proposed Australian National – Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) report released by the Department of Health last week, which represents a major shift in approach to aged care management and funding.

However, we are disappointed with the lack of separate funding for allied health services, restorative care and pain management, and will be using our seat at the consultation table to advocate for this to be addressed.

Craig Phillips
APA Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist

Melbourne-based sports physiotherapist and Pilates expert Craig Phillips says PHI natural therapy reforms will have little impact on practices treating patients with chronic long-term conditions.

Rachel Combe, APAM
Director at Physio Pilates Proactive
APA Physiotherapy Business group member

Physio Pilates Proactive Director Rachel Combe, APAM, says rebates will not be available for preventative Pilates sessions including 50-60 weekly mat classes and reformer classes at her three practices from 1 April. 

'The majority of the clients have been supportive of us as a small business. They say: "We will keep coming".'