DVA and Chiropractic
Does DVA cover Chiropractic?
As Townsville Chiropractors we are asked regularly if DVA pays for chiropractic for its members. The good news is that many DVA card holders and their family members are eligible for DVA funded chiropractic care!
At Ansell Chiropractic we are very proud to be able to help those whom have served for our country.
Do you suffer from symptoms such as headaches, migraines, neck pain or back pain related to your time in defence? Have you wondered if DVA covers chiropractic care for you?
This guide explains who is eligible, how referrals work, how many sessions you can access per referral cycle, and how to book DVA-funded chiropractic care in Townsville
Who is eligible for DVA chiropractic benefits
If you are a current or former serving member of the Australia Defence Force, DVA may pay for your Chiropractic care.
You qualify if you have an assessed clinical need and a have an approved Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) Gold or White card.
Your family may also be covered for up to $800 per person of care via the ADF Family Health Program. Read our ADF Family Health Program and Chiropractic blog to find out about eligibility and how to access it.
Are there any costs to me?
We will bill DVA directly for any treatment provided to you. We guarantee there will be no out of pocket expenses to you with a valid referral.
(If you choose to be treated as a private or Medicare patient, DVA generally won’t pay for services already paid for by another scheme.)
White Card / Gold Card
DVA treatment cycle (sessions and timeframes)
DVA referrals generally run in a treatment cycle: up to 12 sessions or 12 months — whichever comes first. When the cycle ends, a new referral is required for further care.
Gold Card holders are covered for clinically necessary care for all conditions. White Card holders are covered for care related to accepted conditions.
How do I make a DVA appointment
First, you need to get a DVA D904A referral to Ansell Chiropractic from: –
- your general practitioner (GP)
- a medical specialist
- your treating doctor in hospital
- a hospital discharge planner
Note: Make sure let your doctor knows which specific chiropractor you want to see or they may send you to a different Allied Health professional.
Once you have your referral contact us to make an appointment. This referral is valid for 12 months from the date issued or 12 visits, whichever expires first.
Tip: Ask your GP/referrer to name your preferred chiropractor/clinic on the referral so it’s directed correctly
Do all chiropractors accept DVA patients
Not all chiropractors in Townsville accept DVA referrals or bill DVA directly, so it’s worth confirming this before you book. At Ansell Chiropractic Centre in Mundingburra, we accept eligible DVA referrals and bill DVA directly, which means no out-of-pocket costs when your referral is valid and your care is covered under DVA. If you’re unsure what paperwork you need (for example, the DVA referral form and your Gold or White Card details), Book online or call 4779 3633 and we’ll help you arrange your first DVA appointment.
What is the National ADF Family Health Program?
The ADF Family Health program is available to the recognised Dependants of Permanent ADF members and also the dependants of reservists on continuous full time service (CFTS). It is designed for defence members and their families to help with the cost of basic health services.
The program provides $800 per dependant towards the cost of Allied Health and Medical Specialist services. There is a new allocation at the beginning of each financial year (1 July).
Find out more about the ADF Family Health program.
What conditions can I get help with
Some of the most common problems that we help are: –
- Neck pain and back pain
- Whiplash injuries
- Headaches and migraines
- Sciatica
- Postural issues
- Bulging and herniated discs
What is chiropractic care
As Townsville chiropractors we will assess your joints, muscles, nerves & associated structures. We aim to get your spine working well and have you out of pain and as healthy as possible now and into the future.
What does a chiro do
First, we will do a thorough initial consultation so we understand your injury or complaint. This will include a medical history and physical examination to help determine what is causing your problems.
We will then discuss with you a treatment and rehabilitation plan using specific adjusting techniques specifically designed to achieve the best results for you.
Can I see a Chiropractor before seeing my doctor?
You can see us before seeing your doctor; however, you will have to pay for your appointment privately at the time of the visit. Alternatively, you can wait until receiving your GP referral to start treatment.
Are dependants of veterans covered by DVA
As a dependant of a DVA member you are covered if you meet 1 of the following criteria: –
- receiving the War Widow/er’s Pension
- a wholly dependent partner, eligible young person or other dependent who is eligible for compensation for the veteran’s death under MRCA
- eligible for the Orphan’s Pension
- a dependent child of a deceased veteran whose death is not accepted as war-caused, if the veteran had operational service and you are not being cared for by your remaining parent
Is the number of services I can receive limited?
DVA referrals run in treatment cycles. A new referral is needed after each cycle ends (up to 12 sessions or 12 months, whichever comes first).
Can I be treated as a Medicare or Private patient?
Yes, you can choose to be treated under a Medicare plan or as a private patient. However, if you take this option, DVA will not pay for any services that have been paid in part or full by Medicare, by your private health insurance or a third party compensation benefit.
Travel costs
DVA can also assist with transport expenses between your home and our clinic.
Useful links
https://www.dva.gov.au/health-and-treatment/veteran-healthcare-cards/veteran-gold-card
https://www.dva.gov.au/health-and-treatment/veteran-healthcare-cards/veteran-white-card
https://www.dva.gov.au/providers/travel-clients-treatment
Conclusion
Are you are a current or former serving member of the Australia Defence Force who suffers from conditions such as neck pain, headaches, back pain or sciatica?
Contact our office today on 4779 3633 or book online to find out if we can help.
If you found this blog useful, please leave a comment below we love feedback.
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Dr Daryl Ansell is an experienced chiropractor and clinic director at Ansell Chiropractic Centre in Townsville, Queensland. With more than four decades of clinical experience, he has helped patients with low back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, posture-related strain and other musculoskeletal problems.
His approach is evidence-informed and patient-centred, with a focus on careful assessment, clear explanations, improving joint movement, reducing muscle tension and supporting better functional movement. Care is tailored to the individual and may include spinal adjustments, low-force techniques, soft-tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises and posture advice.
Dr Ansell has served on the Chiropractors Board of Queensland for more than 10 years and as ACA NQ Regional Coordinator and Media Liaison Officer — roles that reflect his longstanding commitment to chiropractic standards and community health in North Queensland.
Daryl places a strong emphasis on safety screening, communication and appropriate referral when needed. He works collaboratively with local healthcare providers, including GPs and imaging services such as Queensland X-Ray and I-MED Radiology.
Ansell Chiropractic Centre has been part of the Townsville community for more than 40 years, serving patients from Mundingburra, Aitkenvale, Annandale, Douglas, Idalia, Kirwan South Townsville, Townsville CBD and surrounding suburbs.
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