Chronic Disease Management (CDM) / Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) Osteopathy
Medicare Rebates for Osteopathy — Melbourne & Caroline Springs
Live Well Health Centre provides osteopathy treatment under Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plans, previously known as Enhanced Primary Care (EPC).
This page explains eligibility, costs, referrals, and what to expect when using your Medicare allied health care plan for osteopathy.
What is a CDM / EPC plan?
A Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, previously called an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan, is prepared by your GP to help manage long-term health conditions.
If eligible, Medicare contributes toward selected allied health services — including osteopathy — as part of a coordinated healthcare approach between your GP and treating practitioners.
Who is eligible?
You may be eligible if:
- You have a chronic medical condition lasting — or expected to last — 6 months or longer
- Your condition requires ongoing management or coordinated care
- Your GP assesses your needs and prepares a CDM plan
Eligibility is determined by your GP based on your individual health needs. Medicare does not provide a fixed list of qualifying conditions.
For official eligibility details: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/requirements-for-chronic-condition-management-plan
Common conditions treated under CDM osteopathy
Patients often use CDM referrals for management of:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Arthritis or joint pain
- Persistent headaches or migraines
- Long-standing sports or overuse injuries
- Postural problems
- Chronic muscle tension
- Mobility or balance issues
If you are unsure whether osteopathy is suitable, our team can help guide you.
How many sessions does Medicare cover?
Medicare provides rebates for up to 5 allied health visits per calendar year under a CDM plan.
Important to know:
- Visits may be shared across different allied health providers
- Your referral is generally valid for 18 months from the date of referral
- Medicare visit limits reset each calendar year
- Unused visits do not roll over
Fees and Medicare rebates
As of February 2026, Medicare contributes $61.80 per osteopathy consultation under a CDM referral.
How payment works:
- You pay for your appointment in full on the day
- We process your Medicare claim electronically
- The rebate is deposited into your Medicare-registered bank account
- Most rebates are received within 24–48 hours
An out-of-pocket gap applies depending on practitioner level and appointment type.
What will my out-of-pocket expenses be?
We are not a bulk billing clinic. This allows us to provide longer consultations, personalised treatment, and a high standard of clinical care.
Fees reflect practitioner experience and appointment length.
Typical Associate Osteopath Fees (Feb 2026)
| Appointment | Fee | Medicare Rebate | Your Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | $133.00 | $61.80 | $71.20 |
| Standard Consultation | $102.00 | $61.80 | $40.20 |
Senior practitioner fees are higher due to additional clinical experience.
Reception can confirm exact costs before booking.
Why choose Live Well for CDM osteopathy?
- Longer, unrushed appointments
- Individualised treatment plans
- Evidence-informed clinical care
- Experienced osteopaths
- Strong communication with your GP
- On-site rehabilitation and exercise support
- Advanced treatment options including shockwave therapy and dry needling
Medicare compliance and GP communication
Treatment is provided in accordance with Medicare Chronic Disease Management requirements.
Your osteopath will communicate with your GP, including progress reports as required, to ensure coordinated and effective care across your health team.
What to expect at your first CDM osteopathy appointment
Your initial consultation includes:
- Full health history and assessment
- Hands-on osteopathic treatment
- Personalised management plan
- Home exercises or self-care advice
- Communication with your GP if required
Our goal is to help you move better, manage symptoms, and improve long-term health outcomes.
How to get a CDM referral
- Book an appointment with your GP
- Request assessment for a Chronic Disease Management plan
- Your GP prepares your care plan if eligible
- Your GP provides a referral for allied health treatment
Some GP clinics may organise part of the assessment with a practice nurse.
What information your GP referral must include
To process Medicare rebates, your referral must contain:
- CDM / EPC referral form
- GP provider details and signature
- Date of referral
- Your personal details matching Medicare records
Incomplete referrals may delay or prevent Medicare claiming.
How to book your CDM osteopathy appointment
Referrals can be sent to:
T | (03) 9363 2961
F | (03) 8358 5946
OR
Book online and bring your referral to your first appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use private health insurance and CDM together?
No — you can only claim one rebate per visit.
Many patients use CDM visits first, then private health insurance afterward.
Check with your insurer for details.
What if I run out of CDM visits?
You may continue treatment privately or claim through private health insurance if covered.
A referral is not required to see an osteopath in Australia.
Can I choose my osteopath?
Yes. You may select based on practitioner interests, experience, or personal preference.
Reception can help match you with the right osteopath.
Do I need a new referral each year?
CDM referrals are generally valid for 18 months, but Medicare rebates reset each calendar year.
Can unused visits carry over?
No — unused visits do not roll over.
However, if your referral is still valid, you do not need a new referral for the next calendar year.
What if my Medicare details don’t match?
If your Medicare details differ from your referral or booking information, rebates may not process.
Ensure your details match your Medicare card.
Need help understanding CDM osteopathy?
Our team is happy to explain eligibility, costs, or referrals before you book.
Contact us anytime.