Does Medicare Cover Chiropractic in Australia?
Quick answer
Medicare does not cover standard chiropractic visits. However, eligible patients with a chronic condition can access up to 5 subsidised chiropractic sessions per year through a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP), with a Medicare rebate of approximately $60–$62 per session. A GP referral is required.
If you’re living with back pain, neck discomfort, or musculoskeletal concerns, visiting a chiropractor might be on your mind. But one of the most frequently asked questions we hear at Sydney Spinal Care is:
“Is chiropractic care covered by Medicare?”
Medicare and chiropractic care: what you need to know
Medicare does not cover a standard chiropractic visit.
However, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate if your GP sets up a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) — the updated plan that replaced the former GP Management Plan (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCA) from 1 July 2025.
Under this plan, Medicare provides up to five subsidised allied health services per calendar year, shared across all eligible allied health providers such as chiropractors, physiotherapists, dietitians, podiatrists and psychologists. Your GP will determine which services are clinically appropriate based on your condition.
What is a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP)?
From 1 July 2025, the government streamlined its chronic disease management framework into a single plan — the GPCCMP. You may still hear it referred to as a CDM or EPC plan out of habit, but the current structure uses the GPCCMP.
Under this framework, your GP creates a care plan identifying which allied health services you need and refers you directly to those providers. The plan must be reviewed by your GP within 18 months — if it lapses, your referrals may no longer be valid, so it’s worth setting a reminder.
Eligible chronic conditions may include:
- Chronic back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Recurrent neck pain
- Degenerative joint conditions
- Other chronic musculoskeletal health issues
Once your GP creates this plan, they can refer you to a registered chiropractor as part of your coordinated care.
How much does Medicare cover?
Under a GPCCMP referral, Medicare covers a fixed rebate of approximately $60–$62 per chiropractic session (as of 2026, following the July 2025 MBS indexation). At Sydney Spinal Care:
- We welcome Medicare referrals
- You can claim your rebate on-site
- A gap payment usually applies — our team can explain this when you visit or call
5 free chiropractic visits under Medicare — what you need to know
Patients often search for “5 free chiropractic visits Medicare” and here’s how the sessions actually work:
- You may be eligible for up to 5 subsidised sessions per calendar year
- These sessions are shared across all allied health services on your plan — not five per service. If you see a chiropractor and a physiotherapist under the same plan, those visits count toward the same five total
- Sessions reset each calendar year on 1 January
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
You don’t need a referral if you’re seeking private chiropractic care. You can book directly with Sydney Spinal Care for any musculoskeletal concern.
However, if you plan to claim a Medicare rebate through a GPCCMP, a referral from your GP is essential.
What to expect at your chiropractic visit
At Sydney Spinal Care, your first appointment includes:
- A detailed medical history review
- Physical and orthopaedic examinations
- An explanation of your diagnosis and available treatment options
- Your first chiropractic adjustment, if appropriate
Your chiropractor will explain the likely cause of your pain and work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include spinal adjustments, ergonomic advice, stretches, and rehabilitation exercises.
Commonly asked questions
How do I know if I’m eligible for Medicare under a GPCCMP?
Eligibility depends on having a chronic medical condition that has been present for six months or longer. Your GP will assess your situation and decide whether to create a GPCCMP and refer you for chiropractic treatment.
Can I claim private health insurance and Medicare together?
No — you cannot use both for the same visit. However, you can use your five Medicare-subsidised sessions and then switch to private health claiming for additional visits throughout the year.
How many Medicare sessions do I get per year?
You may be eligible for up to five subsidised sessions across all allied health services combined, resetting each calendar year on 1 January. That means if you see a chiropractor and a physiotherapist under your plan, those visits count toward the same five total. Always book your GP review before December so your referrals are ready for the new year.
Does Sydney Spinal Care accept Medicare plans?
Yes, we accept all valid GPCCMP referrals. Our team can help you process your Medicare rebate during your visit.
Are chiropractors in Australia regulated?
Yes. Chiropractors are registered allied health professionals regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and must meet the standards set by the Chiropractic Board of Australia.
Need help getting started?
If you’re unsure whether chiropractic care is right for you, or if you’d like help understanding how Medicare rebates work, we’re here to assist.
Contact Sydney Spinal Care today on (02) 9314 1022 or send us a message here to learn more about your treatment options.
Matthew has been practicing with Sydney Spinal Care since late 2002. Matthew graduated from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and a Masters of Chiropractic. His friendly nature and caring approach has been a welcomed addition to the Maroubra community as well as the Eastern Suburbs. He is a member of The Chiropractors Association of Australia and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) (registration number: CHI0001306124). Sydney Spinal Care offer affordably priced chiropractic care to all.
