Changes to allied health referral arrangement for DVA clients

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The Department of Veteran’s Affairs has introduced changes to referral arrangements for treatment cycles which aim to improve quality of care for veterans.

These changes came into effect on the 1st October 2019.

How the new referral arrangements work

Put simply:

  • Your GP identifies that you have a clinical need for Allied Health services and completes a referral.
  • Separate referrals are given for each identified area of need such as Psychology, Podiatry, or Occupational Therapy (OT).
  • Referrals are valid for up to 12 sessions or 12 months whichever comes first.
  • Your GP then reviews the progress of the treatment and can provide a new referral if required.

New referral arrangements for occupational therapy services

For OT services the changes will not have a large impact on what we do. Occasionally we may need to ask for a second treatment cycle, but for most 12 sessions a year will be sufficient.

New referral arrangements for other allied health services

The new referral arrangements will have a big impact on physiotherapy and exercise physiology services.

For example, if you are having physio twice a week, you will need a new referral every six weeks.

Veterans with TPI Gold Card do not use the treatment cycle for physiotherapy and exercise physiology but will need a new referral for occupational therapy and other allied health services after 12 sessions or 12 months.

How do I access occupational therapy services?

  • First obtain a D904 referral to treat a condition(s) from your GP
  • Give your ActivOT OT a call, we can usually see you within a week
  • We will ask you about your health goals and help you to achieve them
  • We will conduct a very thorough look at safety in and around your home.

We can assist you to access any eligible products and services you are entitled to through the DVA RAP program to keep you living safely and independently in your home for as long as possible.

For more information about the Department of Veteran’s Affairs changes to allied health service referrals, visit their website.

To find out more about occupational therapy services for veterans, contact us.