Published 05 Jun 2020
GMHBA members experiencing pain in self-isolation now have access to telehealth physio services with no out-of-pocket expenses. This is welcome news for thousands of members who have been struggling to get access to their regular healthcare services during the pandemic.
GMHBA General Manager Private Health Insurance, Tony Hall said, “I am delighted to announce that GMHBA has partnered with Kieser to help our members get healthier at home. GMHBA members now have access to an integrated physiotherapy, rehabilitation and strength training program and a free Kieser Konnect app for tailored exercises.”
“Access to quality healthcare like physio, is more important than ever during isolation. We have partnered with Kieser to provide relief to those who need it most with no out of pocket costs. Whether you’re experiencing some form of back or joint pain, or even recovering from surgery, you can get the support and advice needed in the comfort of your own home.”
All GMHBA members now have free access to the Kieser app that has over 25 different accredited strength and conditioning exercise programs that can be tailored to suit a member’s health situation and fitness level. GMHBA members can also participate in a specialised strength and conditioning program at home following a telehealth consultation with a Kieser physiotherapist.
To help manage the pain of chronic longer-term musculoskeletal conditions at home, eligible members can also access the GMHBA with Kieser clinical program. This program offers up to six specialised physiotherapy sessions with no out of pockets costs, delivered through telehealth or face-to-face. GMHBA’s health services team will be contacting eligible members directly to refer them to the program. Members who are interested in this program can also contact GMHBA or Kieser to see if they meet the program criteria.
Kieser is one of Australia’s leading providers of integrated physiotherapy, rehabilitation and strength training offering evidence based and individualised programs, through a network of 270 health professionals in Australia. The Kieser method is a fusion of health science and exercise science to strengthen the body and promote an active, pain-free and healthy life and is based on the principle of “Strength for Health”.
“GMHBA’s progressive approach to private health insurance is providing an amazing opportunity for their members during this pandemic” says Kieser Australia CEO and Physiotherapist, Brett Long. “Helping Australian’s stay physically active during this pandemic has been our priority from day 1 – having the support of GMHBA breaks down the barriers of access for so many people – like the 51% of Australians have chronic disease who will benefit for physiotherapy and exercise.”
GMHBA has previously run pilot Kieser programs with great success. A trial conducted in 2018 involved 103 participants with a diagnosis of hip or knee osteoarthritis who had joint replacement surgery planned. They undertook a three-month Kieser training program funded by GMHBA. Thirteen months after the completion of this program, only twelve surgeries were completed and 73% of participants had no plans for surgery.
Mr Hall said, “Giving our members the opportunity to take part in innovative physiotherapy programs such as the Kieser partnership is one way we can offer additional value. I am also pleased to announce today that GMHBA is now funding a broad range of telehealth services to support our members be healthier at home.”
“As a not for profit health fund, our aim is to ensure our members get the right treatment, in the right place and at the right time. We’re passionate about being part of the health journey of our members and working alongside them to improve their health outcomes. That is even more important during a pandemic with the challenge of gaining access to much needed care.”
GMHBA members with extras cover can now access telehealth services across physiotherapy, psychology, dietetics, occupational therapy, speech therapy, exercise physiology, antenatal and postnatal classes, weight management programs, approved quit smoking programs and diabetes education consultations. Telehealth benefits will be available until 30 September 2020.
Find out more about how you can access Healthier at Home benefits with GMHBA.
