Exercise Physiology Funding and Referral Options
Understanding Your Funding & Referral Options
Accessing exercise physiology should be clear and straightforward — whether you are a patient, family member, or health professional. Understanding exercise physiology funding and referrals helps patients and referrers choose the most appropriate access pathway for care.
At Healthsmart Exercise Physiology, we support a range of funding and referral pathways to ensure clients can access evidence-based exercise programs that are safe, appropriate, and tailored to their health needs.
This page outlines the most common funding options and referral pathways available.
Who This Page Is For
This information is relevant for:
- Individuals seeking funded exercise physiology services
- General practitioners and medical specialists
- Practice nurses and allied health professionals
- NDIS participants, support coordinators, and plan managers
- Aged care providers and care coordinators
- Family members and carers assisting with access to care
Referral Pathways We Support
Medicare (Chronic Disease Management / EPC)
Clients may be eligible for Medicare-subsidised exercise physiology services with a valid referral from a GP under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan.
- Requires a GP referral
- Up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year (shared)
- Suitable for clients with chronic or complex health conditions
- Services can be delivered in clinic or at home (where appropriate)
We work closely with referring GPs to ensure programs align with medical recommendations and ongoing care plans.
NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
We provide exercise physiology services for NDIS participants under both plan-managed and self-managed arrangements.
Exercise physiology may be funded under:
- Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living
- Capacity Building – Improved Health and Wellbeing
Programs are goal-directed and aligned with functional outcomes such as:
- Strength, mobility, and endurance
- Independence with daily activities
- Falls risk reduction
- Management of neurological and complex conditions
DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
Eligible veterans may access exercise physiology services through Department of Veterans’ Affairs with an appropriate referral.
- Requires a valid DVA referral
- Services delivered according to DVA guidelines
- Home-based and clinic-based options available
Aged Care & Home Care Packages
Exercise physiology services may be funded through:
- Support At Home – Aged Care
- Aged care providers and care coordinators
Programs focus on:
- Maintaining independence
- Improving strength and balance
- Reducing falls risk
- Supporting safe ageing at home
We collaborate with care coordinators and families to ensure programs align with broader care plans.
Private Referrals & Self-Funded Services
Clients may also access exercise physiology services without a formal referral.
This option is suitable for:
- Injury management
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Performance-focused or preventative programs
- Clients not eligible for funded pathways
- Sports Performance
Private services allow flexible program design and scheduling.
What Referrers Need to Know
For health professionals referring to Healthsmart Exercise Physiology:
- Referrals can be addressed to Exercise Physiologist
- Relevant medical history and current diagnoses are helpful
- Imaging or recent reports (if available) support program design
- Ongoing communication and progress updates are provided where appropriate
We prioritise collaborative care and clear clinical communication.
Flexible Service Delivery Options
Depending on the funding pathway and client needs, services may be delivered:
- In our clinic
- In the client’s home
- Within the community
- Across aged care or supported living environments
Delivery mode is guided by safety, functional capacity, and clinical appropriateness.
Not Sure Which Funding Option Applies?
If you’re unsure which pathway is appropriate, we can help.
Our team is happy to:
- Clarify eligibility
- Liaise with referrers or coordinators
- Explain funding requirements
- Assist with next steps