Can myotherapy, remedial massage, and other therapeutic services be paid for using Support at Home funds?

Myotherapy and many other therapeutic services are not listed as standalone funded services under the Support at Home service list. The closest listed service is remedial masseuse, under Therapeutic services for independent living. Remedial massage may only be funded if delivered by an appropriately accredited therapist and included in a prescribed allied health treatment plan to address functional decline. Massage for relaxation, general wellness or comfort is out of scope.

Before approving payment, there should be clear evidence that the service is linked to the person’s assessed aged care needs, supports their safety or independence at home, and is part of a treatment plan prescribed by an allied health professional. Invoices and treatment notes should describe the service as remedial massage linked to functional goals, rather than simply “myotherapy”, “massage”, “relaxation massage” or “wellness treatment.”