some questions!

What can I expect during the consult?

We like to be thorough. Your initial consultation will involve a full case history, examination and usually a treatment. In some instances we will conclude with advice, lifestyle recommendations and a management plan.

We allocate 30 minute slots for your consultation and if your case is complicated, you can request a longer session, but you will be charged for this. Follow-up treatments are 30 minutes. NIS treatments are more involved and we normally allow 60 minute appointments.

We offer a quality service and our approach to you and you health problem means that we often do not need to see you more than once a week. In some cases, especially "acute" conditions, we may request you come back in 72 hours. For long term and maintenance treatments, we may see patients anywhere from once a month to once a year, but this is dependent on the individual.

Is osteopathy covered by ACC?

We have a great scheme in New Zealand, whereby your treatment will be partly subsidised by ACC if you have an accident or injury in New Zealand. The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides comprehensive, no-fault personal injury cover for all New Zealand residents and visitors to New Zealand, but only if you have had an accident or injury or are on a current related ACC claim. Claims are only valid for a nominated time (usually one year) and/or number of treatments, so do check with us or ACC.

We are ACC providers, which means that if you hurt yourself as a result of an accident or injury, you can come directly to Queenstown Osteoapthy for treatment and we will fill in the paperwork with you. To find out more go to http://www.acc.co.nz

Do I need a GP referral?

We are trained as primary health care providers. That means there is no need to see a medical doctor before you come to see us.

We can initiate an ACC claim directly. If you require referral (for an MRI, Ultrasound, x-ray and blood tests) or specialist treatment, we can arrange this.

Am I covered by health/travel Insurance?

We are unable to answer this, as each Insurer is different. While some medical insurers cover the cost of osteopathic treatment, you will need to check with your insurer first. You will need to pay the full rate at the time of treatment and get reimbursed from them. We do not bill the insurer direct, but rather you. It gets very complicated following up with International Insurance Companies.

Will I need to disrobe?

We suggest you wear appropriate undergarments and loose fitting clothing. There may be times during an examination, especially in the first consultation, when we can see your posture better if you have only your underwear on.  If you are at all uncomfortable with this, please let us know - it may not be necessary. NIS does not require dis-robing and all diagnosis is done through muscle testing. Patient privacy and comfort are paramount.

Are you a regulated body?

We all need protection, even patients. The Osteopathic Council of New Zealand (OCNZ) was established by the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act (2003). This is a regulatory body whose purposes is to protect the health and safety of the general public. As a result, all registered osteopaths in New Zealand are deemed competent and fit to practice osteopathy. They must hold a current practice certificate to lawfully practice osteopathy, and these are renewed annually.