What to ask before choosing a rehab provider

Match the provider to the person's needs

Different providers focus on different conditions, age groups and care settings. A provider that is excellent for one situation may not be the best fit for another. Confirm that the disciplines you need are offered in a setting that suits you.

Check registration and accreditation

In Australia, regulated health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and psychologists must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). Other allied health professions are governed by their professional associations. It is reasonable to ask a provider about practitioner registration and any professional accreditation they hold.

Experience and available disciplines

• Experience working with the person's condition or goals.
• Which allied health and medical disciplines are available in-house.
• How the team communicates and shares information about the person's care.

Location, access and appointments

• Clinic location, parking and accessibility.
• Availability of telehealth or home visits where appropriate.
• Typical wait times for an initial appointment and follow-ups.

Funding pathways and costs

Ask which funding pathways the provider accepts, including Medicare, private health insurance, NDIS, DVA, workers compensation, motor accident schemes or self-funded care. Confirm any expected out-of-pocket costs, including assessment fees and cancellation policies.

Goals, reviews and communication

• How goals are set with the person and their family.
• How often progress is reviewed and plans updated.
• How the provider communicates with referrers such as a GP or specialist.

Privacy, consent and information sharing

Providers should explain how personal and health information is collected, stored and shared, and seek consent for sharing information with other parts of a care team.

Scheme approval or accreditation where required

Some schemes, such as workers compensation or motor accident insurance, require providers to be approved by the scheme regulator. Check that the provider meets any scheme requirements that apply to your situation.

How Get Rehab's quality check differs

Get Rehab performs its own quality check on providers in our network. This is not the same as government registration or scheme approval, and it is not a clinical recommendation. You should still confirm registration, scheme approval and suitability for your individual circumstances.

Second opinions

You are entitled to seek another provider or a second opinion at any time. A different perspective can be helpful, particularly for complex or long-term care.