For the purposes of Bupa recognition, providers are categorised in two broad groups:
Natural therapists – these consist of acupuncturists, naturopaths, remedial massage therapists, aromatherapists, homoeopaths, Alexander technique teachers, Feldenkrais practitioners, kinesiologists, reflexologists, shiatsu therapists, Bowen therapists, herbalists, myotherapists, TCM massage
Traditional Therapists – these consist of Audiologist, Chiropractors, Dentists, Dental Prosthetists, Dietitians, Exercise Physioligists, Eye Therapists, Occupational therapists, Optical dispensers, Optometrists, Orthotists, Podiatrists, Psychologists, Physiotherapists and Speech pathologists.
Where a provider number is not issued by Medicare, Traditional Therapists seeking recognition from Bupa for benefit purposes are asked to complete an application. Natural Therapists must contact their association.
Please contact your professional association for further details.
Bupa recognised provider status will be granted to applicants who:
Within 10 working days of receiving your signed declaration and documentation.
Private Practice means a practice operating on an independent and self supporting basis, either as a sole, partnership or group practice but not under an agreement with, or the subsidy by, another party for the provision of accommodation, facilities or other services or practitioners. Practitioners in practice at Public Hospitals or any other type or class of publicly funded facility do not meet the guidelines of Independent Private Practice.
The Nationally Recognised Training logo is used to signify that the associated training has met nationally agreed standards. The logo may be displayed in association with a training organisation that has been formally recognised by the relevant State Training Authority to deliver training or it may be displayed in association with an accredited course or a Training Package and/or one of the components. For further information refer to the National Training Service Information website: www.ntis.gov.au.
A training organisation is registered by State/Territory Training Authorities as nationally recognised for the provision of training products and services. Through the registration process, training organisations will be registered to deliver a range of training products and services.
Registered Training Organisations are listed on the National Training Information Service (NTIS) website: www.ntis.gov.au.
If you have overseas qualifications or qualifications which is not 'Nationally Recognised' you will need to approach one of the Registered Training Organisations in order to complete the appropriate "Nationally Recognised" Training. It is expected that current competency will be assessed and considered in most cases. Overseas qualifications must be independently validated and assessed by VETASSESS (www.vetassess.com.au) or by the relevant Overseas Qualifications Unit (www.internationaleducation.gov.au).
Yes, by accepting recognition by our fund you are also agreeing to abide by following terms.
Natural Therapists please view Our Ancillary Provider Terms for Natural Therapy Providers (PDF 258kb)
All other Bupa recognised providers please view Our Ancillary Provider Terms (PDF 620kb).
Natural Therapists please view Our Ancillary Provider Terms for Natural Therapy Providers (PDF 258kb)
All other Bupa recognised providers please view Ancillary Provider derecognition (PDF 107kb).
Generally a person will not be recognised in more than one category, especially where the treatments are similar. For example, a person who is recognised for physiotherapy benefit payment purposes will not be recognised for massage benefit payment purposes.
For further clarification or answers to any queries contact our help desk on 1800 060 239.
