Review of the way in which Physiotherapy Services are Funded and Accredited by ACC

Call for Public Submissions to ‘Review of the Way in Which Physiotherapy Services are Funded and Accredited by ACC’

The Government has appointed David Goddard QC to undertake a Ministerial Review of the adequacy of the current regulatory, purchasing and funding arrangements for physiotherapists within the ACC regime.  The review will also have regard to the rehabilitation outcomes of ACC claimants including the provision of necessary and appropriate physiotherapy services to achieve improved claimant outcomes.  The final report of the review is due with the Minister for ACC in September 2007.

The scope of the review encompasses:

1. ACC payments to physiotherapists.  The level of payment under regulations specifically, and the effect of payment relativities between regulation and contract generally, on the sustainability of physiotherapy services.
    
2. The endorsed provider network (EPN).  Concern about certification and associated compliance costs with ACC’s EPN.
    
3. Culture of ACC/audits.  Perceived inappropriate culture and attitude by ACC towards physiotherapists.
    
4. The Physiotherapy profession generally.  The general sustainability of the physiotherapy profession within New Zealand and ACC’s role in maintaining a sustainable physiotherapy sector.

Full terms of reference for the review are available on the Department of Labour website www.dol.govt.nz, or by writing to ‘Diane Salter, Project Manager for Review of Physiotherapy Services, Workplace – ACC Policy, Department of Labour, P O Box 3705, Wellington’.

Members of the public are invited to make written submissions to the Review.  The initial closing date for submissions was Wednesday 28th February 2007.    This has now been extended to 9 March 2007. Please address your submission to:  ‘Public Submissions, Review of Physiotherapy Services, Workplace- ACC Policy, Department of Labour, P O Box 3705, Wellington.’

Hearings for the review will be held from 14 – 18 May 2007 and from 29 – 31 August 2007 at Level 2 West Lounge, The Westpac Stadium, Customhouse Quay, Wellington.  The hearings are open to members of the public.