Information & Support
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The AV Connect Program is Not just service related
Non-Government, no fees, no endorsements, no commissions, no products.
Most comprehensive Australian Veteran support linking Network.
58 comprehensive TOPICs and growing
The Av Connect Program makes information available on the understanding that we are not thereby engaged in rendering professional advice. We will make every reasonable effort to maintain current and accurate information. Users should carefully evaluate the accuracy, currency, completeness and relevance of this information for their purposes before relying on the material. Users should always obtain any appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances.
DVA Heart Health Program
The Heart Health Program, delivered by CHM on behalf of the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA), is a free, 12-month program for ADF Veterans with eligible warlike, operational or peacekeeping service. The program is designed to assist you to make positive, sustainable changes towards your overall health and wellbeing, as well as target common causes of Veteran morbidity.
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STATE & TERRITORY SERVICE AREAS
ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA
DVA States
"Things you should know"
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We don't pay for gym memberships or general exercise programs outside of your treatment sessions.
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You will not need to pay access fees for gyms or pools if they are part of your treatment plan.
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If you live in permanent residential aged care your eligibility for EP services may change.
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If you have seen another exercise physiologist in the last 12 months be sure to let your current exercise physiologist know.
Most ex-service organisations (including advocacy) have wellbeing and welfare personnel to assist you with your healthy lifestyle needs.
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Search for an organisation near you:
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Search an advocate organisation near you:
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REMEMBER: Most health services covered by DVA require you to get a referral from your:
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GP
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Health Professional
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Hospital
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ALWAYS: Confirm that your treatment is for an accepted service-related condition and that your chosen Health provider will accept your Veteran Gold Card or Veteran White Card for their services.
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Search for a health professional near you:
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practice
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Chinese Medicine
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Chiropractic
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Dental practice
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Medical practice (doctors)
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Medical radiation practice
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Nursing
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Midwifery
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Occupational therapy
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Optometry
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Osteopathy
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Paramedicine
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Pharmacy
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Physiotherapy
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Podiatry
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Psychology
DVA States: "Exercise physiology services must be provided by an exercise physiologist who is accredited by Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and is registered with Services Australia.
DVA clients can be treated who has both:
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a referral from their medical practitioner, medical specialist or hospital discharge planner which includes a diagnosis informing you of the patient's condition requiring clinically necessary treatment, and
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a DVA Health Card ("Gold Card-for all conditions" or "White Card-for specific, accepted conditions only") where the referral for treatment relates to a war-caused or service-related condition accepted by DVA.
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DVA will pay for the DVA client to see an EP for clinically necessary treatment only. The EP can assist the DVA client with their recovery or self-management of referred conditions. It is expected the duration of treatment will be evidence and outcome-based, reasonable in time, and focus on exercise literacy to promote improved condition management and recovery, independent of the need for regular or ongoing treatment."
NOT DVA FUNDED? Don't worry!
As with all other Allied Health services, exercise physiology is covered through a Medicare chronic disease management plan (CDMP). A CDMP can be issued by your G.P when you have been suffering from a condition or pain for longer than three months and likely to be present for at least six months
Exercise
Physiology
Allied Health Professionals state "Accredited exercise physiologists specialise in clinical exercise interventions for people with a broad range of health issues. Those people may be at risk of developing, or have existing, medical conditions and injuries. The aims of exercise physiology interventions are to prevent or manage acute, sub- acute or chronic disease or injury, and assist in restoring one’s optimal physical function, health or wellness. These interventions are exercise-based and include health and physical activity education, advice and support and lifestyle modification with a strong focus on achieving behavioural change."
Veteran Owned Recovery in Brendale QLD
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Cryotherapy
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Infrared Saunas
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Contrast therapy pools
Atlantis Recovery Centre - GOld coast QLD
Atlantis Recovery Centre is a purpose built, All Abilities Allied Health Centre. Veteran Programs and a state of the art Hydro Tread. Hydrotherapy provides an enormous range of benefits due to the effects of water buoyancy which reduces the weight bearing capacity on your body. The “Veteran Strong” program includes physiotherapy, psychology and exercise physiology to assist veterans. An onsite gym assists veterans with physical and mental health issues.
Combines the best of both worlds for maximum rehabilitation, relaxation and recovery effects. Alternate between hot and cold therapy
APOD supported Wellness
Australian Partners of Defence (APOD) – an Australian-owned organisation which was founded by veteran families, for veteran families – to make it easy for businesses and organisations to recognise and acknowledge the unique nature of military service and the contribution of veterans and their families.
Fitness Australia register/Directory (Australia wide)
Search Australia wide from one Directory for fitness businesses, trainers and more
