Information for new patients:
Osteopathic consultations are available by appointment.
The initial consultation is 1 hour. Subsequent consultations are 30 minutes.
Do I need a referral?
Patients are often referred to osteopaths by doctors and other health care practitioners. However as osteopaths are primary health care providers you can make an appointment without a written referral. If you qualify for a Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan, your doctor will write a referral.
Will I need to bring anything with me?
If you have relevant diagnostic imaging and reports (Ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, MRI), or relevant reports from other specialists, doctors or practitioners, it is requested that you bring them with you.
Can I bring a friend or relative?
Yes, you can have a relative, friend, or carer present with you throughout your consultation and treatment.
You will need to accompany your child if your child is the patient.
Will I need to remove my clothes?
When presenting for treatment, it is recommended that you dress comfortably in loose clothes. There is usually no need for garments to be removed.
What happens at the first consultation?
At the initial consultation, the osteopath will ask questions about your presenting problem and symptoms, and your medical history. You will have the opportunity to discuss the nature of your treatment, and have any questions answered. When you feel comfortable to proceed you will be asked to sign a form of consent, as osteopathy is a manual therapy.
The osteopath will conduct an osteopathic examination. This will include visual assessment of posture and symmetry; and observation of the quality and ease of motion. The hands will be placed over or under some parts of the body for evaluation of the condition of parts beneath and within. Superficial observation may be made, such as of relevant bruising or scar tissue.
As osteopathy views the body holistically, the practitioner may need to assess parts of your body other than, and related to the part that is troubling you. There may be a need for orthopaedic, neurological, or other diagnostic tests.
Osteopathic treatment should not cause undue discomfort. Treatment is delivered with careful attention.
Following treatment, the osteopath may advise additional investigation such as X-ray or blood tests, or referral to another health professional. Other advice may be given, such as doing an exercise at home.
Can I claim on my consultations?
Osteopathy is covered by most private health funds, by the Department of Veteran Affairs, and by Medicare if your doctor has issued a CDMP referral.
Is there a cancellation policy?
It is requested that a minimum of 24 hours notice be given when advising of a change of appointment or a cancellation, or payment of the fee may be due.
How do I access the practice?
The practice is at the corner of Elgar Road and Fowler Street, Box Hill South.
The entrance and ample car parking are accessed from Fowler Street at the rear of the property.
The practice is within short walking distance of the Elgar Road and Riversdale Road intersection where the City to Wattle Park number 70 tram terminates.
Buses from surrounding areas and Box Hill station stop close by, in either Riversdale or Elgar Road.
