FAQ

Osteopathy / General FAQ

Do I need a referral from my GP?

In short, no! Osteopaths are primary care practitioners meaning you can visit us privately anytime without any referral from your doctor.

What do I need to bring?

If you have any x-rays or reports please bring these along as it helps your Osteopath to determine what treatment and management is best for you. If you have no scans, not to worry, the Osteopath will determine if you need them.

Why am I asked so many medical questions on my first visit?

We need to complete a full medical history so we get a better picture of your health and best ways to manage you. Also so we don’t miss anything sinister in your medical history.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable track pants or shorts/singlet.

Do I have to remove my clothes?

If we need to treat the lower or upper body then you may be asked to remove your clothes, if you feel more comfortable wear a flexible pair of shorts, or appropriate underwear or bra. Obviously if you don’t feel comfortable to remove anything at all, not to worry we can work around you and help you to feel comfortable at all times.

Can I bring a friend or relative?

Generally we are happy to have someone in the room with you. As there are time restrictions we ask that chatter be reserved for when the patient is on the treatment table so we can get in as much treatment as possible!

As we are a family clinic, children are welcome in the room. Please bring some toys or books for your children to keep them entertained whilst they wait.

Should I take painkillers before my consultation?

Please try not to take anything before coming to see us, as it may mask your true pain level and because of this as you may feel sorer after the painkillers wear off! If your pain is absolutely unbearable then you can take some, please notify the treating practitioner that you have taken something before coming.

Is Osteopathic treatment painful?

At Moreland Osteopathy your treatment will be for the most time, pain free, however there may be areas of your body that are more tender than others due to injury or dysfunction. These areas may be tender to touch, but your Osteopath will ensure they choose a technique that will be less painful.

How long will my appointment take?

At Moreland Osteopathy, private Initial consultations run for 60 minutes, this is to ensure there is enough time for History taking, examination, treatment and after care. We pride ourselves on the quality of healthcare offered and we also allow enough time for any questions you may have. Standard return consultations run for 30 minutes, however if you have a few areas of pain you can choose to have a 45 min session or 60 min return session.

How many appointments will I need?

It really depends on your condition and problem, however you should be able to see a change in your symptoms within the first 2-3 sessions. Please follow your Osteopaths management plan for best results.

Will there be any additional investigations or treatments?

If your Osteopath feels it is necessary to refer you for further investigation, they are able to refer you directly or advise you on the best way to get scans that won’t be as costly to you.

Will I feel sore after my Osteopathy consultation?

It’s normal to feel sore after treatment. Sometimes post treatment soreness can last for 2 days following treatment, then dull off by the third day. The reason for this is that manual treatment may produce inflammation of joints/muscles/ tendons which is good for healing. Some people may not feel post treatment soreness at all, everyone is different.

Chronic Disease Managemnt Care Plan – Medicare Program FAQ

I have a care plan referral from my doctor, do you accept these?

Yes, we do accept the chronic disease management care plan at our clinic. Your doctor will decide if you are eligible for this program which allows up to a maximum of 5 allied health services per calendar year.

How do I book in?

Please call Dr. Sofie at the clinic on (03) 9386 4780 and mention that you have a doctor’s referral as this process is different from our private patients.

You will be asked for your email address and to fill in your medical history and details online before coming into the clinic so the process is much more efficient and we have more time to help your presenting complaint!
You must bring in your original paperwork on your first visit.

What if I don’t have an email?

Not to worry, we will have a chat over the phone to collect all your information before coming in.

Do I have to pay anything out of pocket for the care plan?

At Moreland Osteopathy there is NO out of pocket fee, we bulk bill Medicare directly! At Moreland Osteopathy we like to give back to the community, and we believe that everyone should have access to incredible health care.

How long will my consultation be under the chronic disease management care plan?

Initial and Return consultations both go strictly for 30 minutes.

What if I want more time under the chronic disease management care plan?

If you have many areas of pain and you feel as though 30 minutes is not enough then you can book in for a 45 min or 60 min session under the care plan. A GAP fee will apply. You will be asked to pay the full amount of the consultation up front, then Medicare will refund you $55.10 on the spot (price current from July 2021) A savings card is needed for this. Refunding onto a credit card won’t work!

I want to come to Moreland Osteopathy, however my doctor referred me to another Osteopath or physiotherapist. Can I still come to you with these papers?

If you would like to come to our clinic you need to get the clinic details switched over to our clinic as it is illegal for us to use papers with another clinic’s details on them. Please check these details on the care plan before booking your appointment with us.

If the details are not our clinic, it’s usually a quick fix; call your doctor and ask them to change the clinic and give them our details below:
Moreland Osteopathy
Shop 2, 146 Bell Street, Coburg, 3058.

For further questions please contact Sofie at the clinic on (03) 9386 4780.