The Short Answer
Yes, chiropractic care can be covered by Medicare in Australia, but only in specific situations. It’s generally available for people with chronic conditions through a GP-managed plan, rather than as a standard benefit for everyone.
When Medicare May Apply
Medicare support is usually available when you have a chronic condition and your GP puts a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan in place (sometimes called a GP chronic condition management plan). If your GP believes chiropractic care is a suitable part of your plan, they can provide a referral.
What “Chronic Condition” Means
In this context, a chronic condition is generally one that has been present for six months or longer. Your GP will decide whether you meet the criteria and whether a CDM plan is appropriate for you.
How Many Visits Are Included?
With a CDM plan, you can usually access up to five Medicare-subsidised allied health visits per calendar year. These five visits are shared across eligible allied health providers (so they’re not always five chiropractic visits specifically). In many cases, there may still be an out-of-pocket gap depending on billing arrangements.
What About Private Health Extras?
Many Australians also use private health insurance extras to support chiropractic visits, depending on their level of cover, annual limits, and waiting periods. If you’re covered, it can be a helpful option for more flexibility.
Your Next Step If You’re Unsure
If you’re not sure what applies to you, the simplest starting point is a quick chat with your GP. From there, you can check your private health policy (if you have one) and decide what approach best suits your needs and budget.
Want help understanding your options before you book? Contact Abundant Life Chiropractic and we’ll point you in the right direction for your next step.