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    AnyDr Fiona McIntyreDr Matthias HouvenagelDr Chelsey Kedmenec

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    FAQ’S Home / FAQ’S
    Should I bring my X-rays or Scans with me to the appointment?

    Please bring any x-rays, CT scans, MRI scans or any other test results that you feel are applicable to your presenting complaint. Your Osteopath is also able to refer you for x-rays or further testing should it be required.

    What happens during my first treatment?

    When initially arriving at the clinic, all new patients will be asked to fill out a personal information form, detailing their injury, and any previous medical history details. In the following consultation, the Osteopath will take a full case history – including past medical history.

    During the examination, the Osteopath will perform a comprehensive examination, using a standard medical approach, and various orthopaedic and medical examinations to diagnose your condition.

    Osteopaths utilise hands on techniques as the basis of treatment. A few examples of the many treatment techniques Osteopaths may use are massage, deep tactile pressure, stretching and joint mobilisation (if required). The Osteopath will also focus on patient education; understanding their condition, and self-management techniques. This may include stretching or exercises, nutritional advice, ergonomic and lifestyle advice.

    Is Osteopathic treatment claimable under WorkCover, TAC or Veterans Affairs?

    Yes, At Ascot Vale Osteopathy, all Osteopaths are registered to treat patients supported by third-party insurers such as WorkCover, TAC or Department of Veterans Affairs.

    Can I use my private health insurance? What payment options are available?

    Osteopathy is covered by most health insurers under extras cover. We recommend contacting your private health insurer to clarify the terms and conditions of your policy. We have HICAPS which means your private health insurance claim can be claimed on-the-spot and you then only have the gap to pay. We accept cash, EFTPOS, VISA, Mastercard.

    Medicare also offers the Chronic Disease Management Plan (formerly Enhanced Primary Care), which means if eligible, you may be able to claim a rebate from Medicare for up to 5 osteopathic treatments. Whether a patient is eligible for CDM services is a clinical judgement for their GP. In order to claim on the CDM you must have a referral from your GP.

    Do I need a referral?

    Osteopaths are primary health care professionals so no referral from your GP is necessary. However, we frequently receive referrals from GP’s and when we do we work with your doctor to provide a treatment plan specific to your needs.

    What is the difference between Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists?

    This is one of the most common questions we are asked. Osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists treat the same conditions with different approaches. It is not for us to explain the theories behind Physiotherapy or Chiropractic, but the main principles of Osteopathy are that the body is a unit and that the structure and function of the body are interrelated. This means that dysfunction, or damage, to one area of the body can have drastic effects on other regions of the body.

    As Osteopaths, we aim not only to treat the symptoms of the problem, but the cause behind them. In doing so, all of our techniques are hands-on and are specific to your condition and your medical history. Incorporating a wholistic approach, we are also trained to assess diet, nutrition, ergonomics and lifestyle factors to attain a true sense of wellbeing.