What happens at my first appointment?
Your osteopath will ask questions about your problem and symptoms. They may also ask questions about your medical history, medications, or other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem.
Next, your osteopath will conduct a full examination and, if necessary, may perform some medical tests. These could involve diagnostic, orthopaedic, neurological tests, postural assessments, activities, or exercises. These tests will help your practitioner determine how best to manage your condition.
The examination may include passive and active movements, such as the osteopath lifting your arms or legs. You may also be asked to bend over or stand in a treatment gown as part of the examination, so please be sure to wear comfortable and flexible clothing.
Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treatment, so your practitioner may look at other parts of your body as well as the area that is troubling you. For example, if you have a sore knee, your practitioner may also look at your ankle, pelvis and back.
Your osteopath may also provide educational advice to help you manage your condition between treatments. This may include an exercise program for you to do at home or work.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Bring along any X-rays, scans, or other test results you have.
Should I arrive early for my first appointment?
Yes! We advise our patients to arrive 10 minutes early to their first appointment, as you will be required to fill out our new patient form on arrival. This also includes an informed consent form, which is required by law to be completed before the Osteopath can begin treatment on you.
What should I wear?
Depending on the area of your body requiring treatment, your osteopath may ask you to undress to your level of comfort. You may want to wear loose pants or bring a pair of gym shorts to change into. We also offer treatment gowns for modesty and mobility.
Can I bring a friend or relative?
Yes. If you would like, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.
If your baby or child or is being treated, you (the parent or guardian) will be required to stay in the room during treatment.
Teenagers may be requested to have a parent or guardian present in a consultation. Please contact us if you have a query regarding this.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, you can make an appointment with us directly without a referral from your GP.
If you have been diagnosed with a chronic health condition you may be eligible for a Medicare ‘Chronic Disease Management’ plan (formally EPC). This is either:
- A GP Management Plan (GPMP) or,
- A Team Care Arrangement (TCA).
These must be discussed with your GP to see if you are eligible. For more info, visit the Services Australia website.
General FAQ’s
What if my condition changes over time?
It is important to tell the osteopath if your medical condition or health information has changed between appointments. This includes any new injuries, change of medications, or change of medical provider.
How long will my treatment take?
This is dependent on your practitioner. For an Initial Consultation:
- Dr Dan Hurley, Dr Jackson Lee & Dr Shannon Roberts: 1 hour
- Dr Robert Korac: 40 minutes
For a Return Consultation:
- Dr Dan Hurley, Dr Jackson lee & Dr Shannon Roberts: 30 minutes
- Dr Robert Korac: 20 minutes
How much does my treatment cost?
This is also dependent on your practitioner. For an Initial Consultation:
- Dr Dan Hurley, Dr Jackson Lee, & Dr Shannon Roberts: $160
- Dr Robert Korac: $130
For a Return Consultation:
- Dr Dan Hurley, Dr Jackson Lee, Dr Shannon Roberts & Dr Robert Korac: $95
Is osteopathic treatment painful?
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy which includes hands-on treatment such as massage, stretching, repetitive movements, mobilisation and/or manipulation.
Most osteopathic treatments are gentle and should not cause excessive pain. If your injuries require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, your practitioner will exercise care to make you as comfortable as possible.
Some people will experience mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, similar to what is felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly more than 3 – 4 days after your treatment, please get in touch with us to discuss your concerns.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments you need depends on you and your treatment needs. We aim to keep your appointments to a minimum. Your osteopath will be able to tell you within a short time whether they can treat you or if they need to refer you to someone else.
Generally, you would expect to see some changes in your symptoms after one or two visits; however, some long-term or chronic conditions may require a longer course or more frequent treatment. If you have any concerns, your osteopath will be happy to discuss these with you.
What about payments?
Payment is due either at the beginning or end of each consultation, it’s up to you!
Can I claim my osteopathic treatment through my private health fund?
Yes – If you have an “extras” package with your private health insurance, which covers osteopathy, you can claim your treatment on the spot as we have a HICAPS terminal for direct claiming.
If you forget your private health insurance card, you can still claim your treatment through your health fund’s website or app.
Do you accept third-party payments?
We accept WorkCover NSW, iCare, and Medicare CDM plans (GPMP and TCA). Medicare claims can also be processed on-the-spot if your GP has referred you through a CDM plan.
Are there additional investigations or treatments?
Following treatment, your practitioner may decide if additional investigation is required. This may include X-rays, blood tests or other medical scans such as a CT or an MRI. This will enable them to make a more exact diagnosis and develop a suitable treatment plan for you. If necessary, your practitioner may refer you on to another health professional.
Which areas do we service?
At Health Tribe Sydney we treat patients from Penrith, South Penrith, Jamisontown, Werrington, Cambridge Gardens, Caddens, Kingswood, Glenmore Park, Jordan Springs, Cranebrook, Llandilo, Agnes Banks, Berkshire Park, Bligh Park, Hobartville, Clarendon, Richmond, Londonderry, Castlereagh, Windsor, Windsor Downs, Mount Druitt, North St Marys, St Marys, St Clair, Erskine Park, Luddenham, Mulgoa, Wallacia, Warragamba, Silverdale, Emu Plains, Lapstone, Leonay, Glenbrook, Blaxland, Warrimoo, Springwood, The Blue Mountains, The Hawkesbury, Greater Western Sydney, the Central West and many other places in New South Wales.