NDIS physio on the Sunshine Coast: a guide for self-managed and plan-managed participants

Can I see a physio who isn't a registered NDIS provider?

Yes, if you use a plan manager or manage your own funding. With a plan manager, you can choose registered or unregistered providers [1]. The same goes if you self-manage [2].

If the NDIA manages your funding, it's different. Your providers must be registered with the NDIS, and you can't use unregistered providers for those supports [3].

Every NDIS provider, registered or not, must follow the NDIS Code of Conduct and handle complaints properly [2].

Isn't a physio always registered?

Yes, but that's a different kind of registration. Only qualified allied health professionals who are registered can provide NDIS therapy supports [4]. For physios, that means registration with AHPRA, which I have. Being a registered NDIS provider is a separate, optional step that I haven't taken.

Which part of my plan pays for physio?

Physiotherapy is one of the therapy supports the NDIS can fund [4]. It usually comes from the capacity building part of your plan, in the funding for improved daily living [5]. Your plan manager or support coordinator can tell you what your plan says and how much is set aside for therapy.

The NDIS asks for evidence that your therapy supports are right for you, and that evidence comes from your allied health professional [4]. My reports are written with that in mind.

How does paying work?

If you have a plan manager: I send my invoice to your plan manager, who pays it from your plan [1].

If you self-manage: I send my invoice to you, and you pay it from your NDIS funding.

My fees are at or below the NDIS price limits in force at the time of each session. Time spent on reports and talking with your team is charged at the same hourly rate, and we agree it in advance. Travel is charged in line with NDIS rules. All of this goes into a service agreement before we start, so there are no surprises.

What happens at the first visit?

I come to you, or you come to my Monday clinic in Peregian Beach. We talk about what's hard for you day to day, such as moving around the house, getting out and about, or keeping up with the things you want to do. Then we agree on goals that fit your plan.

After the visit, you'll know the plan and the reason for it. With your permission, I send a short report to your support coordinator.

Where do you visit?

I visit homes from Aura and Caloundra up the coast to Noosa, including Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Buderim, Coolum Beach and Peregian Beach. In the hinterland I visit Maleny, Montville and Flaxton, and further north I visit Gympie, including Jones Hill, Southside and Monkland.

What if the NDIA manages my plan?

Then you'll need a registered NDIS provider for NDIS-funded physio [3]. You can still see me privately, or through Medicare if your GP sets up a chronic condition management plan. The fees and funding page explains each one.