Do I need a referral to be seen at Peninsula Hand Therapy?
No. A referral is only required for patients who are having their consultations paid for by a 3rd Party eg: Employer, Work Cover, TAC or DVA.
Are there any Medicare or private health fund rebates?
Yes. Private patients may receive a rebate from their private health fund if cover includes ancillary services for OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY. Please discuss Medicare rebates with your GP to see if you qualify.
I’ve been referred to Jane Aarons, do I need to see her or can I see one of your other therapists?
As the clinic owner and Director, Jane Aarons’ contact details are often on the referral letters, however all the therapists at Peninsula Hand Therapy specialise in hand/wrist /elbow rehabilitation and each have a particular interest they specialise in, so it does not matter which therapist you are booked in to see. Our reception team will guide you to the appropriate therapist to treat your specific condition.
I just need a splint, do I need to make an appointment?
Yes. Peninsula Hand Therapy stocks a variety of thumb, wrist and elbow braces as well as custom molded thermoplastic splints. To ensure your splint / compression garment is suitable, the therapists need to formally assess your condition. During the consultation they will give you education and exercises to assist your recovery. The cost of splinting is in addition to the initial consultation cost.
I’ve only just had surgery, isn’t it too early to start rehabilitation?
No. Hand Therapists generally see patients within the first three days following surgery to fabricate splints and remove post surgery dressings, as directed by the referring surgeon / doctor. Initially the rehabilitation is focused on reducing swelling, fitting splints and keeping unaffected joints moving.
I’ve sprained my wrist / have pain when typing / suffer with tennis elbow, why would I come to Peninsula Hand Therapy, and not a general physiotherapist?
Hand therapists have post graduate Qualifications in the treatment of hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder injuries. We are the only clinic on the Mornington Peninsula that exclusively treats upper limb conditions.
What should I bring to my appointment?
- Any x-rays (films and reports), scans and tests relevant to your visit or your client ID number so they can be viewed online. We cannot access public health x-rays online, so please bring along the physical x-ray and report.
- Your heath care/aged pension or DVA card
- Your Workers Compensation or TAC approval letter, claim number and employer information
- Your referral letter if you have one