NDIS telehealth physiotherapy is a video appointment that may be suitable for education, exercise review, progress checks and practical problem-solving when an in-person visit is not required. Suitability depends on the participant’s goals, communication preferences, safety, technology and the type of assessment or treatment needed. It should be decided with the physiotherapist rather than assumed from a diagnosis alone.
This guide explains what can happen during an online physiotherapy appointment, who may find it useful, when a home or community visit could be more appropriate and how participants and support people can prepare.
What happens during an NDIS telehealth physiotherapy appointment?
The participant and physiotherapist connect by video from separate locations. The physiotherapist may discuss current concerns, observe movements that can be viewed safely on camera, review an agreed exercise program, provide education and plan next steps. The session should remain focused on the participant’s functional goals and everyday activities.
An online appointment may include checking how a movement is being completed, adapting an exercise to the available space, discussing fatigue or barriers to practice, reviewing progress, or involving a carer with the participant’s consent. The exact session will vary because physiotherapy should be tailored to the individual.
CEO Therapy’s telehealth physiotherapy service page describes its online consultation option. Participants considering NDIS-related care can also review the main NDIS physiotherapy page.
When telehealth may be a practical option
Telehealth can reduce travel and may make it easier to attend a follow-up when transport, distance, fatigue, work or support arrangements create barriers. It also lets the physiotherapist see the space and equipment available where the participant normally practises.
An online session may be worth discussing when the goal is to:
- review an existing exercise or movement program;
- check progress and discuss what has changed since the previous appointment;
- provide education about pacing, activity planning or agreed self-management strategies;
- help a participant or carer understand written or video instructions;
- observe a familiar activity that can be performed safely without physical assistance;
- adjust a home program within the physiotherapist’s clinical guidance; or
- coordinate with a support person or another professional, with consent.
A participant does not need to choose telehealth for every appointment. Some care plans may combine video consultations with home or community visits, depending on clinical need, goals and preferences.
When an in-person physiotherapy visit may be preferable
A video call cannot replace every part of an in-person assessment. The physiotherapist may recommend a home, community or clinic-based appointment when they need to provide hands-on assessment or treatment, physically assist a movement, closely assess safety, examine an area that cannot be viewed adequately, or trial equipment in person.
An online session may also be unsuitable when the participant cannot engage comfortably by video, the connection is unreliable, privacy cannot be maintained or the proposed activity would be unsafe without someone physically present. A support person may help with technology or communication when the participant wants them involved, but they should not provide physical assistance unless the physiotherapist has explained and agreed to this.
Telehealth is not an emergency service. New severe symptoms, sudden deterioration, a serious fall or other urgent health concerns should be directed to the appropriate emergency or medical service rather than waiting for a routine video appointment.
How to prepare for NDIS telehealth physiotherapy
A short preparation check can make the appointment more useful and reduce avoidable interruptions:
- confirm the video platform, appointment time and contact details;
- charge the device or connect it to power;
- test the camera, microphone and internet connection;
- position the device so the relevant movement area can be seen;
- choose a private, well-lit space with a clear floor area;
- keep prescribed mobility aids or exercise equipment nearby;
- wear clothing that allows comfortable movement where appropriate;
- have current exercise instructions and questions available; and
- confirm whether the participant wants a family member, carer or support worker present.
Do not begin unfamiliar exercises before the call simply to test the camera view. The physiotherapist can first explain what is planned and decide whether the setup is safe.
Making an online session accessible
Telehealth should be adapted to the participant rather than expecting the participant to adapt to the technology. Before the appointment, tell the provider about communication preferences, sensory needs, interpreter requirements, the need for extra response time or whether breaks may be helpful.
The participant should be able to ask questions, pause, change position or decline an activity. If the video format is not working well, the physiotherapist can discuss alternatives. A first appointment may sometimes be better in person because it allows a broader assessment of mobility and the home environment. The guide to a first NDIS physiotherapy home visit explains what that option may involve.
Can NDIS funding be used for telehealth physiotherapy?
The NDIA identifies physiotherapy as a type of therapy support that may be funded when it meets the NDIS funding criteria and is included appropriately in the participant’s plan. Its current therapy supports guidance also states that therapy supports must be delivered by appropriately qualified or registered allied health professionals.
Whether a particular telehealth physiotherapy service can be paid from a participant’s plan depends on the plan, goals, management arrangements, service agreement and current NDIS rules. Participants should check their plan and confirm the proposed service and price before booking. A provider cannot promise that the NDIA will fund an appointment.
Questions to ask before choosing telehealth
- Which goals or activities will the online appointment address?
- Is an in-person assessment needed before or after the video session?
- What space, equipment or support person will be required?
- How will privacy and consent be managed?
- What should the participant do if the connection fails?
- How will progress be reviewed and documented?
- What fee and cancellation terms apply, and can the plan be used for this service?
Discussing telehealth suitability with CEO Therapy
CEO Therapy offers telehealth appointments alongside mobile NDIS physiotherapy services. Suitability and availability should be confirmed for the individual participant. To discuss goals, preferred appointment type and plan-management arrangements, use the NDIS physiotherapy enquiry form. A short conversation can help determine whether telehealth, an in-person visit or a combination is the more practical next step.