Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Accredited Hand Therapist?
| Hand therapy practitioners are Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registered allied health professionals, university-trained Physiotherapists or Occupational Therapists who, through further education, clinical experience, and independent study, have an extended or advanced scope of practice. For more information refer to the AHTA website. |
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self-refer.
Although helpful, you do not need a referral from your doctor or surgeon if you are a private patient.
A doctors referral is only required if you have a Workers Compensation claim or you are eligible to claim under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) service or Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
How do I make an appointment?
You can either phone (08) 9840 5666 or email us at admin@hands-on.com.au
How long will my appointment take?
Initial appointments usually take between 45 to 60 minutes.
Length of subsequent appointments vary depending on your injury. Your therapist will be better able to advise after your initial assessment.
What should I bring with me on my first visit?
If referred by your GP or Specialist, we usually receive a copy of your referral and operation report directly. For most scans/x-rays, we are able to access online if you can tell us the provider when you book in.
If applicable, please bring your private health insurance card to process your rebate.
What will it cost?
Private Health Insurance: we recommend checking your policy cover for occupational therapy with your insurer. Healthpoint facilities are provided to process your rebate on the day of your appointment.
Workers Compensation: for approved claims, no payment is required. The employer’s insurance company is invoiced directly.
Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) services: a small gap payment is required for the consultation and full payment for any splints/consumables.
Please call if you have any queries or require an estimate of costs.
Can I claim from Medicare?
Some people with chronic conditions can receive a rebate from Medicare for up to 5 visits per calendar year under the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Services. Please speak to your GP to discuss whether you are eligible, and request the appropriate referral.
If you are referred on a GP Management Plan and Team Care Arrangement (TCA), you will need to pay for your consultation and any consumables/splints at your appointment. We then process your Medicare rebate for the consultation to be paid directly to your account.
What parking is available?
We have our own dedicated client parking at the back of the building
The driveway entry is off Aberdeen St.
There is also free 2 hour street parking at the front (Aberdeen St) and all day parking at the back.
Will I be charged if I cancel my appointment?
If you are unable to attend an appointment please call us ASAP to reschedule.
If you provide 24 hours notice, a cancellation fee will not be applied. If you notify within 24 hours or do not attend your appointment, we reserve the right to charge a cancellation fee.
Do you provide services for NDIS participants?
Yes. We provide hand and upper limb therapy for self managed and plan managed participants.
We are not registered to provide NDIA managed services.