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Free physio under the ACC scheme looks set to become a thing of the past.
The Accident Compensation Corporation has announced it is slashing the amount it pays to physiotherapists.
From November 16, ACC providers will recieve one third less than they currently do.
Physiotherapists will, however, be able to charge ACC clients a co-payment towards their consultation fees.
"We have changed our approach to funding to ensure best value for levy payers while ensuring ACC clients get the right treatment at the right time," says Gail Kettle, Director of Health Purchasing and Provider Relationships.
"There was a 214% increase in costs between 2000 and 2008. The cost of physiotherapy in 1999/2000 was $39.7 million. In 2008/09 alone, physiotherapy cost levy payers $144 million and, without change, this is forecast to increase to $232 million by 2013/14.
"Rises in costs of this nature are unsustainable for levy payers and the ACC scheme. And they don't belong in a value-for-money environment."
As well as the increasing costs, there has also been an increase in the amount of people getting physiotherapy.
Since 2004, with the introduction of free physiotherapy through the Endorsed Provider Network, the volume of claims have risen 45.5%.
"We are also concerned that free physiotherapy has not led to more rapid recovery for clients who are injured. We are very clear that where we fund physiotherapy, we want to see measurable client benefits", says Kettle.
