New out-patient physiotherapy network
We are launching a new out-patient physiotherapy network and wanted to provide you with an update on the improvements we are making and what this means for you. These changes relate to out-patient physiotherapy treatment not provided in a hospital. Hospital-based out-patient physiotherapy is not affected and should be pre-authorised in the usual way.
What is a Bupa approved out-patient physiotherapy network?
The new Bupa approved physiotherapy network is designed to reduce variation in both the cost and quality of treatment - and provide a consistent and appropriate standard of care for all members, wherever they are treated. We have ensured that the network offers Bupa members prompt local access to specialist physiotherapy services.
In order to join the Bupa network physiotherapists must have been able to provide us with information on their quality standards and a pricing structure for the treatment of our members.
What does this mean for members with a current pre-authorisation for physiotherapy?
If you are currently having physiotherapy treatment we will continue to fund your treatment within your benefits limits for a period of 12 weeks or up to your next renewal date, whichever is closer. Your current pre-authorisation number will remain valid for this period and will expire after this date.
Whilst we are confident that this should give you more than sufficient time to complete your course of treatment, if your treatment needs to continue after this date, please contact the Bupa helpline at the earliest opportunity.
We welcome the opportunity to discuss your treatment and if necessary we can locate an alternative provider within your locality for further treatment.
In the future how can I be referred to a Bupa approved out-patient physiotherapist?
If your consultant or GP refers you for physiotherapy treatment, you should call the Bupa helpline to make sure the physiotherapist is part of the Bupa approved out-patient network. We will be happy to discuss the options available to you.
The agreements we have with network physiotherapists ensure that only senior clinicians treat Bupa members so you can be reassured that you will see someone who will give you the standard of treatment you require. When pre-authorising treatment at a physiotherapy practice where there is more than one physiotherapist, you will no longer need to know the name of the individual physiotherapist who will treat you.
Bupa - taking a leading role
At Bupa, your care is at the heart of what we do: we work to improve the quality of care you receive as well as managing the cost of that care on your behalf. With this in mind, we have pioneered a number of hospital and provider networks. Following the successful launch of Bupa approved networks for MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), cataracts, and breast, bowel and gynaecological cancers our new physiotherapy network means that you will receive quality assured treatment and get the most value from your out-patient benefit. And because Bupa has no shareholders or dividends to pay, any savings we make are reinvested in improving the care and services we offer you.
Publication date: October 2009