Why are NDIS fees different to your standard fees, and do you have to charge the full NDIS rate?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) hourly rate for Allied Health providers (clinicians) is set by the Federal Government, with variations depending on which state treatment is given, as well as for rural and remote participants (patients).
All providers are able to choose their rate to treat, with the NDIS rates set as a maximum allowable rate.
As NDIS participants require a fair degree of administrative preparation and ongoing management outside of consultation time, by both our administrative team and providers, the fee as set by NDIS, when compared with treating private billing patients, is seen as fair to the clinicians as well as participants.
Our Motor Vehicle and Workers’ Compensation patients in comparison are currently billed at a similar hourly rate, as set by WorkCover WA, a branch of the Government of WA.
While they also require administrative management, it is generally to a lesser extent than the numerous stakeholders often involved within an NDIS participant’s optimal management and ongoing care.
Our standard fees have been set at a lesser hourly rate than NDIS and WorkCover WA as a means of providing affordable healthcare to our local community and beyond.
Other FAQ's
WLC Medical is a private billing clinic and appointments are not routinely bulk billed.
If you are attending under a Medicare-funded care plan or referral, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate depending on the service and your individual circumstances. Please contact our reception team if you would like to confirm the fees that apply to your appointment.
I have a GPCCMP — will my visits be bulk billed?
No. A GP Chronic Condition Management Plan allows you to claim a Medicare rebate for eligible consultations. It does not guarantee bulk billing. Any gap fee is payable by the patient. However, we do offer a 10% discount for children under 18, students and seniors. A 25% discount does also apply for Health Care Card holders and Pensioners.
How do payment and rebates work?
All appointments are privately billed, with payment required on the day of your consultation.
Depending on your referral and eligibility, you may be able to claim a Medicare rebate or use private health insurance. Please check with your insurer or GP for confirmation.
Can I use a GP referral or Care Plan?
Yes. We accept GP referrals and GP Chronic Care Management Plans (GPCCMP); however, a gap fee will apply, as we do not bulk bill.
Can I claim a Medicare rebate?
Medicare rebates may be available for some Physiotherapy, Dietetics and Psychology appointments when you have an eligible referral or care plan from your GP.
Eligibility and rebate amounts depend on the type of referral and service. Please speak with your GP or our reception team if you’re unsure.
Can I get Private Health Rebates?
Yes, you can.
Private Health Insurance rebates are available (e.g. HBF, Bupa, etc), with the rebate amount varying depending on your level of cover.
This can range from around $20 in some patients, to others including a gap saver that covers their full consult fee, depending on your choice of insurer.
If you are unsure of what your eligible rebate may be, it’s best you contact your Private Health Insurer to confirm or contact our lovely admin team who may be able to provide a quote.
Do I need a GP referral to attend WLC Medical?
No. You do not need a GP referral to book an appointment with a Physiotherapist, Dietitian or Psychologist at WLC Medical, or to book a DEXA scan.
We are happy to accept referrals from GPs and other healthcare providers where applicable. If you have a referral, simply bring it with you to your appointment.
Some Medicare rebates require a valid GP referral or care plan. Please speak with our reception team if you’re unsure whether this applies to you.
Can I bring someone to the appointment with me?
We prefer it if possible.
Having a partner/friend/the whole family present can provide support, as well as help remember important details discussed during your consults.
Is there parking on-site?
Parking is available at the front of the building, as well as at Nations Church next door.
Verge parking is also available in front of both the clinic and church, with a total of 65 nearby parking bays.
Am I allowed to record a conversation with a clinician during a consult?
It can be very helpful to have a recorded consult to listen to at a later stage and help remember key points discussed.
If you are considering recording a conversation, please let your clinician know in advance and be sure everyone in the room has given consent before recording.
