DVA Physiotherapy
DVA physiotherapy refers to physiotherapy services provided to eligible veterans and war widows/widowers through the Australian Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). These services are funded by the DVA to help improve or maintain the health and mobility of veterans.
✅ Who Is Eligible?
Veterans and entitled persons who hold one of the following cards:
Gold Card – covers all clinically necessary physiotherapy.
White Card – covers physiotherapy only for specific accepted conditions.
💡 Services Covered by DVA Physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal rehabilitation (e.g., back pain, joint pain)
Falls prevention and balance training
Post-surgery rehabilitation (e.g., hip/knee replacement)
Chronic disease management (e.g., COPD, arthritis)
Mobility improvement and strength building
Pain management (e.g., manual therapy, electrotherapy)
📋 How It Works
Referral Required:
From a GP, specialist, hospital doctor, nurse practitioner, or another physiotherapist (for continuation of care).
The referral is usually valid for 12 months.
No Out-of-Pocket Cost:
The physiotherapist bills DVA directly.
The patient does not pay for approved services.
Service Limits:
While there's no strict limit on the number of sessions, treatment must be clinically necessary and in line with DVA treatment guidelines.
Reviews are conducted if treatment is prolonged.
🏠 Home Visits & Community Care
If the veteran is unable to attend a clinic due to mobility issues or health conditions, DVA may cover home physiotherapy services. Ariston Rehab offers home visit DVA funded home assessments and therapy.
📍 Finding a DVA-Registered Physiotherapist
We at Ariston Rehab, are a DVA registered provider for South Australia. Most clinics indicate if they accept DVA clients. You can also:
Ask your GP for a referral to a DVA-registered provider.
Use the DVA provider search tools online (I can help with that if you provide your location).
🛠️ Other Allied Health Services DVA May Cover:
Occupational therapy
Podiatry
Psychology
Exercise physiology
Dietetics
Would you like help:
Finding a DVA physiotherapist near you?
Understanding if your condition is covered under a White Card?
Downloading DVA’s official physiotherapy treatment guide?
