What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a system of manual medicine which is based on unique biomechanical principles.  Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques to treat musculo-skeletal problems and other functional disorders of the body.  Osteopaths are primary health care practitioners, which means they are trained to recognise conditions which require medical referral.  They are also trained to carry out standard medical examinations of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems.

Do I need a referral? You do not need a referral from your doctor to see an Osteopath.  However under some circumstances your GP may refer you to an Osteopath under the Enhanced Primary Care program (EPC) which attracts a Medicare subsidy.  You can discuss your eligibility with your GP.

How long are appointments at Gateway Osteopathy, and what will it be like? As a new patient your appointment will run for approximately 45 minutes where your Osteopath will ask you about your current complaint and past medical history.  An examination is then performed to assess your musculo-skeletal system and what may be causing your pain.  Treatment may involve massage, stretching, joint mobilisation, manipulations and balancing techniques.  A follow up treatment is usually required (30mins) and your Osteopath will advise you as to how many appointments they feel may be needed to resolve or manage your complaint.  Your Osteopath may also give you exercises to help better manage your condition.

When do people commonly see Osteopaths? Osteopaths consult or treat people presenting with complaints relating to;

• Head and Neck
• Back
• Upper Limb
• Lower Limb
• or with Chronic Pain
• Pregnancy Related Pain
• Postural concerns
• If you’d like to read more about Research & Evidence – Osteopathy Australia’s Website.

Is Osteopathic treatment covered by my health fund? The level of rebate you receive will depend on your health fund policy.  If you have extras cover your health fund will usually pay for some of the cost of your treatment.  At our clinic we offer HICAPS, it allows you to claim on the spot by swiping your health insurance card.  In the event you are unable to claim on the day you can present your receipt to your health fund.

Osteopaths Qualifications? All of our Osteopaths will have either a double degree Bachelor of Applied Science (Clinical Science) / Bachelor of Osteopathic Science or they may have a Bachelor of Applied Science (Complimentary Medicine) and a Master of Osteopathy.  In Australia Osteopaths can choose to study Osteopathy at either RMIT University , Victoria University. , or Southern Cross University NSW

Department of Veteran Affairs? The practitioners working from Gateway Osteopathy are proud to treat those who have served and have qualified for a  DVA card.  Please note that a referral is required from your GP, DVA gold card holders will not be required to pay any extra for their appointments under the current system.