Your First Visit
Starting physiotherapy for the first time — or trying a new clinic — usually comes with a few practical questions. This page covers what to expect from booking through to your first appointment, so there are no surprises.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book a physiotherapy appointment at Adapt — you can book directly, whether you’re managing a new niggle, a specific injury, or want an assessment before returning to training. If you’re claiming through a Medicare Chronic Disease Management plan, WorkCover or a TAC claim, bring your referral or claim details with you, and let us know at booking if you’re unsure what’s needed.
What does my first appointment involve?
Your first appointment is a conversation as well as a physical assessment. We’ll talk through what’s happening, how it started, what you’re trying to get back to, and what matters to you — then move into assessing movement, strength and how your body is responding to load. We’ll explain what we’ve found in plain language, including what’s driving your symptoms and what’s contributing to them, and agree on a plan together.
How long should I allow?
Initial and follow-up appointments both run for 30 minutes by default. If your assessment or treatment needs more time — for example a more complex injury, or a first ACL rehabilitation session — a 1-hour appointment is available on request when you book. It’s worth allowing a few extra minutes on your first visit in case there’s any paperwork to complete before you’re seen.
What should I bring or wear?
- Comfortable clothing you can move in — shorts or leggings help for a knee, hip or ankle assessment; a singlet or loose top helps for a shoulder or back assessment.
- Any relevant scans, imaging reports or specialist letters, if you have them. They’re not required to book — bring them along if you do.
- Your Medicare card and private health insurance details, if you’re planning to claim a rebate.
- A rough list of any relevant medications or previous surgeries.
What happens after my first appointment?
You’ll leave with a clear plan — whether that’s hands-on treatment, a home exercise program, guidance on managing training load, or a referral onward if that’s a better fit for your situation. Most plans include a recommended review timeframe, but nothing is locked in: your program is adjusted as your assessment and progress inform what’s next.
Fees and private health rebates
An initial consultation (30 minutes) is $160. A follow-up consultation (30 minutes) is $140. A 1-hour appointment is available on request at either stage — ask when you book if you’d like to allow extra time. Private health rebates are available if you hold extras cover that includes physiotherapy — check with your fund for your specific rebate amount, as this varies between funds and policies.
Cancellations and rescheduling
Our practitioners reserve your appointment time specifically for you. To ensure fairness and availability for all patients, we require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for any cancellation or rescheduling.
If an appointment is cancelled or changed with less than 24 hours’ notice, or if you do not attend your appointment (“no-show”), the full consultation fee will apply.
Do you offer telehealth?
Yes — telehealth appointments are available for suitable follow-ups and reviews where an in-person assessment isn’t required. Let us know when you book if you’d prefer a telehealth session.
Still have questions?
If anything here doesn’t answer your question, get in touch — we’re happy to talk it through before you book.