Does Medicare in Australia cover Exercise Physiology?

Many Australians can benefit from Exercise Physiology services but are often unsure whether Medicare can help cover the cost. One of the most common questions we receive is:

"Can I see an Exercise Physiologist through Medicare?"

The answer is yes; many people may be eligible for Medicare-funded Exercise Physiology services through a referral from their GP.

Let's explore how it works.

What Is Exercise Physiology?

Exercise Physiology is an allied health profession focused on using evidence-based Exercise to prevent, manage, and treat a wide range of health conditions.

An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is a university-qualified healthcare professional who specialises in designing safe and effective exercise programs for individuals with:

• Diabetes

• Cardiovascular disease

• Arthritis

• Osteoporosis

• Chronic pain

• Neurological conditions

• Cancer

• Mental health conditions

• Obesity and metabolic conditions

Exercise Physiologists help improve physical function, quality of life, and long-term health outcomes.

Does Medicare Cover Exercise Physiology?

Yes. Medicare may provide rebates for Exercise Physiology services through a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan, previously known as an EPC (Enhanced Primary Care) Plan.

A CDM Plan allows eligible patients to access allied health services at a reduced cost through Medicare.

Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible for a Medicare-funded referral, you generally need to have:

A Chronic Medical Condition

A chronic condition has been present for 6 months or longer, or is expected to be present for 6 months or longer.

Examples include:

• Type 2 Diabetes

• Osteoarthritis

• Osteoporosis

• Chronic pain

• Heart disease

• Parkinson's disease

• Stroke

• COPD

• Obesity

• Cancer

• Multiple chronic health conditions

Your GP determines eligibility.

How Do You Get a Referral?

The process is straightforward:

Step 1: Visit Your GP

Your GP will assess whether you meet the criteria for a Chronic Disease Management Plan.

Step 2: Receive Your Referral

If eligible, your GP can refer you to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist.

Step 3: Book Your Appointment

Once you have your referral, you can schedule your Exercise Physiology assessment and begin your personalised treatment program.

How Many Sessions Does Medicare Cover?

Medicare provides rebates for up to five allied health sessions per calendar year under a Chronic Disease Management Plan.

These five sessions are shared across all eligible allied health providers, including:

• Exercise Physiology

• Physiotherapy

• Dietetics

• Podiatry

• Occupational Therapy

• Psychology (where applicable under relevant programs)

Your GP can explain how your sessions are allocated.

What Happens During an Exercise Physiology Appointment?

Every person is different, which is why Exercise Physiology programs are tailored to individual needs.

Your initial assessment may include:

• Medical history review

• Functional assessment

• Strength testing

• Mobility assessment

• Goal setting

• Exercise prescription

Your Exercise Physiologist will then develop a personalised program designed around your condition, abilities, and goals.

Why Use Exercise Physiology?

Research consistently shows that Exercise is one of the most effective treatments for many chronic health conditions.

Benefits may include:

• Improved Strength -Helping maintain independence and physical function.

• Better Mobility - Making everyday tasks easier and more comfortable.

• Chronic Disease Management - Supporting blood sugar control, cardiovascular health, and overall wellbeing.

• Reduced Pain - Exercise can help manage chronic pain and improve confidence with movement.

• Improved Mental Health - Regular physical activity has well-established benefits for mood, stress, and quality of life.

Is There an Out-of-Pocket Cost?

Medicare provides a rebate for eligible Exercise Physiology services; however, depending on the clinic, there may be a gap payment. At The Right Move Allied Health Centre, we bulk-bill our sessions without any out-of-pocket costs.

Beyond Medicare

In addition to Medicare, Exercise Physiology services may also be available through:

• Private Health Insurance

• DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs)

• NDIS

• Workers Compensation

• CTP Insurance Claims

Eligibility requirements vary between funding schemes.

The Bottom Line

Medicare covers Exercise Physiology for many Australians living with chronic health conditions through a Chronic Disease Management Plan.

If you have a condition that has been present for 6 months or more, speak with your GP to see if you may be eligible for a referral. Accessing support early can help improve your health, maintain independence, and enhance your quality of life.

Call to Action

If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan or would like to know whether you're eligible for Exercise Physiology services under Medicare, we'd be happy to help.

Contact The Right Move Allied Health Centre today to discuss your referral options and learn how personalised exercise therapy can support your health goals.