Picking the right Physiotherapist who can best cater to your needs is crucial but undoubtedly can be a bit of a mine field to navigate with so many options out there. Selecting the wrong Physio, however, can lead to poor patient outcomes, increased cost, frustration, and even pain.
Below we have compiled a list of items to help you to select the right Physiotherapist for you.
- Ensure they are qualified and accredited
It is essential that you choose a Physiotherapist who is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA). They must also hold the appropriate level of professional indemnity insurance.
- Do your own research
As with most things today, you can find out a lot about a healthcare professional online. Check out the Physios online reviews, website, and social media profile. This will give you a good indication of their service offering and the type of patients they are seeing.
- Ask your friends and family
A referral by a trusted friend, colleague or family member who has been to that clinic also goes a long way!
- Do they specialise in the area you require
Physiotherapy covers a wide area, so you should seek out a physiotherapist with the relevant qualification and experience within your particular concern. So, if you have a bad back, see someone who specialises in musculoskeletal conditions, and if you are recovering from or trying to prevent a sporting injury, it is advised to see an expert in sports physiotherapy. A good place to find this out is the Physio practice website, social media, or call the clinic and speak with the Practice Manager or Practice Principal.
- Experience and qualifications
Just as when you deal with any health professional, it is essential that your physiotherapist is fully qualified and fully accredited. They are required by law to have completed a degree at an approved educational institution, and to be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia (PBA). The PBA is responsible for keeping professional standards high ensuring the Code of Practice is adhered to and that practitioners are fully insured.
Physio Connex Performance Clinic are committed to continually expanding their knowledge, skills, and techniques and this is demonstrated by their team members completion of a number of post graduate certifications and qualifications. Find out more about the experience and qualifications of the team >>Click Here<<
- Comprehensive Consultations
The last thing you want to feel is rushed especially at your initial appointment with your Physio. Find out how long and what the initial consult will cover and if private consultation rooms are used.
Physio Connex Performance Clinic offers 60-minute initial consultations, allowing appropriate time for each patient based on their unique needs. This includes time for us to really listen to your story, provide a detailed musculoskeletal assessment followed by comprehensive and evidence-based treatment. Follow-up appointments are 45-minutes, allowing for continual comprehensive care throughout your entire management.
- Trusted by other healthcare professionals and local universities
You can always ask your GP or healthcare professionals that you have a relationship with what physio they recommend you see. At Physio Connex Performance Clinic we work together with a number of local, Sydney and Newcastle based healthcare professionals and specialists to ensure best patient outcomes and optimal follow up and care for their patients.
Being endorsed or having partnerships with local universities is also a reflection of the Physio’s work ethic and commitment to use of evidence-based techniques, compliance to safety principles and dedication to the profession.
- Fit your lifestyle
If location is a factor then choose a physiotherapist that is close by, or that is not difficult to get to, that has easy access. Ample and free parking, extended opening hours, and multiple practitioners to choose from can make that Physio a more appealing choice.
Ease and convenience of booking is also important, do they have online booking and telehealth options for example.
- Taking new patients and have availability
Perhaps the most important consideration is whether the physiotherapist is actually available. When you are in pain, a waiting list is the last thing you need to be put on. It’s important to get treatment as quickly as possible. Pick a Physio who has the capacity to accommodate patient appointment requirements and understands urgency of presenting acute conditions.
- Don’t select on price alone
We would advise that choosing your Physio on price alone is not the most appropriate way. As the old saying goes – you get what you pay for! Quality Physiotherapists not only do extensive undergraduate training but also complete ongoing professional development in the form of post graduate courses, regular research article review and service trainings and this additional time and effort is reflected in the pricing structure and value delivered. Remember, if you end up seeing the wrong Physio because they are cheaper then it will end up costing you more in the long run if their treatment is ineffective.
Choosing the right physio is vital for your health and wellness, so we hope you found our tips above useful for helping you to choose wisely.
The team at Physio Connex Performance Clinic in North Wyong use the latest techniques, technology and equipment combined with evidence-based physiotherapy practice to best serve the Central Coast community.
Book an appointment today!
the right physiotherapist for you