What can I expect at my initial osteopathic consultation?

Your Osteopath will ask you questions about why you are visiting today and clarify information that you provided in your new patient form. Gaining as much information as possible allows us to better diagnose and tailor the treatment to your needs.

Next, your osteopath will assess your general mobility and posture and if necessary do diagnostic, orthopaedic or neurological tests to confirm an initial diagnosis.

Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treatment, so your practitioner may look at other parts of your body that may be contributing to your problem as well as the area of pain and discomfort. For example, if you have a sore knee, your Osteopath may also look at your ankle, hips and back.

Our Osteopaths have many hands on tools to assist your body in healing and you will experience many of them during a treatment such as soft tissue massage, stretching, dry needling, mobilisation and manipulation.

Your Osteopath will also provide you with tools, such as ergonomic and postural advice as well as exercises to manage your condition between appointments or a management plan to reach long term goals.

Should I arrive early for my initial appointment?

We recommend that you arrive 5-10 mins early to your initial consultation for all our services as you will be required to fill out a new patient form. You can also download, print and complete the form prior to your appointment in order to save time.

Will I be asked to complete paperwork?

Yes. In order to assist you, it’s vital that we understand your medical history and complaint or injury. Supplying us with the above details will assist us in making a diagnosis and discussing the best treatment options for your circumstance. We will also need you to sign our ‘informed consent’ form after you have discussed any queries with your practitioner as under the law, an Osteopath needs to obtain your approval to treat you.

What do I need to bring?

Please bring along any existing scans eg X-ray, MRI, CT, Ultrasound and blood test results you may have regarding your relevant concern.

What do I need to wear?

Depending on the area of the body being treated, your Osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear in which case you will be offered a gown. The practitioner will leave the room to give you privacy. It is important that you feel comfortable at all times. If you are asked to remove outer clothes, you will be covered with a towel during treatment. You may want to wear a loose top, stretchy pant or bring a pair of shorts to change into.

Can I bring a friend or relative?

Of course you can if it makes you more comfortable, especially if it is your first visit. Please note we have limited space in our treatment rooms but will do our best to make all comfortable.

Do I need a referral?

No, you don’t need a referral to see our practitioners. However under certain schemes (see medicare question below) you may need a referral. To make an appointment or if unsure about whether we can assist you with your injury or complaint, please call the clinic on 02 4739 8827.

What if I can’t make my appointment and what is your cancellation policy?

Please call us as soon as possible so we can arrange another time to address your needs. Our practitioners are often fully booked. As a result we require that all cancellations and reschedules are made by phone with at least 24 hours notice.

This allows us to help other patients who are in pain or on the waiting list. If you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment time or miss the appointment you will be charged the full consultation fee as we may not have enough time to fill the appointment.

Is Osteopathy covered by my healthfund?

Yes Osteopathy should be covered by your healthfund if you have extras cover. If you are unsure of your level of coverage, please check with your private health insurer. Blue Mountains Osteo has a HICAPS facility which enables those with private health insurance to claim their rebate immediately at the clinic.

Is Osteopathy covered by Medicare?

Osteopathic treatment is only covered by Medicare under an EPC (enhanced primary care) plan set up by your GP. To be eligible for an EPC plan, patients must be suffering from a chronic condition or have multiple chronic conditions. It is at your GP’s discretion as to whether you are eligible to participate in the program. If you feel that you may be eligible please speak to your GP.

The EPC program entitles eligible patients to a rebate for up to 5 osteopathic treatments per calendar year. At the time of your consultation you will be charged the standard consultation fee and upon payment will be issued a receipt needed to claim back your rebate either at your nearest Medicare office or online.

We do not bulk bill, so a gap fee is therefore paid for as an out of pocket expense by you, the patient.

Is Osteopathy registered with Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA)?

Yes, our osteopaths are registered with DVA. Those seeking treatment through this department will need a referral from your GP to obtain DVA funded osteopathic care. There will be no additional out of pocket expense for DVA patients. Please bring your white or gold card to your initial consult.

Is Osteopathy registered with Workcover and Motor accident insurers?

Yes, our osteopaths are registered Workcover and Motor accident service providers, however, if you are claiming through Workcover or a Third Party Insurer, Blue Mountains Osteo requires payment at the time of treatment. You will be issued a receipt to self claim. A letter from the insurance company approving Osteopathic treatment for your injury should be obtained prior to your treatment and given to your Osteopath.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on your condition. Long term or chronic conditions may require more clinical management than acute or short term conditions. Our practitioners will discuss this with you, based on your individual needs. In general, you may feel some change within 1-3 treatments.

Is Osteopathic treatment painful?

If your complaint or injury requires treatment of the painful area, your Osteopath will aim to make you as comfortable as possible. Unfortunately some conditions are painful and may be tender during movement, stretching or treatment. You may experience mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, similar to that felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly, call our clinic and speak to your Osteopath to discuss your concerns.

Will the Osteopath refer me to another health professional if need be?

Yes. Your care and safety is our utmost priority. If we believe you would be better suited to another health or medical discipline we will happily refer you. If we need further investigations before we can safely proceed with treatment we will refer you back to your GP.