Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you might want to know before your visit — and if your question is not answered here, our friendly team is only a phone call away.
Before your first visit
You do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist at Saunders Physiotherapy — simply book online through HotDoc using the booking buttons on this site, or phone the clinic on (08) 8410 5666. Our main clinic is at Level 3, 12 Gilles Street in the Adelaide CBD, and we also consult from the Arruda Clinic at 375 Cross Road, Edwardstown for patients in the inner south.
Still have a question?
If you cannot find what you are after below, call us on (08) 8410 5666 or email [email protected] and we will point you in the right direction.
Frequently asked questions
How do I book an appointment?
The easiest way is online through HotDoc, using the booking buttons throughout this site — it works for both new and existing patients. You can also phone the clinic on (08) 8410 5666 during opening hours.
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly for private appointments. A referral is only needed for certain funded programs, such as a Medicare care plan arranged by your GP.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring anything relevant to your problem: referral letters, scans or imaging reports, and a list of any medications. If you plan to claim on the spot, bring your private health fund card too.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing that lets you move freely and gives your physiotherapist reasonable access to the area being treated — shorts for hip, knee or ankle problems, and a singlet or loose top for neck, shoulder or back problems are ideal.
Can I claim through my private health fund?
Yes. If your extras cover includes physiotherapy, we can process your claim on the spot through HICAPS — just bring your health fund card. Any gap payment can be settled by EFTPOS or cash.
Do you accept Medicare care plans (EPC/CDM)?
Yes. If your GP has set up a Chronic Disease Management plan (previously known as an EPC plan) that includes physiotherapy, we can see you under it and a Medicare rebate applies to eligible visits. Speak to your GP about whether you qualify, and bring your plan paperwork to your appointment.
Do you see NDIS participants?
We welcome NDIS participants, and offer goal-focused physiotherapy support. Arrangements can depend on how your plan is managed, so please phone the clinic before booking and we will talk through what is possible.
Where can I park near the Gilles Street clinic?
The clinic is at Level 3, 12 Gilles Street, in the south-east corner of the Adelaide CBD. There is metered street parking on and around Gilles Street, plus public car parks within easy walking distance. Allow a few extra minutes at busy times of day.
How long do appointments go for, and what do they cost?
Initial and returning consultations run 60 minutes ($194) so we have time for a thorough assessment. Standard follow-up consultations are $114, and long consultations for complex problems are 60 minutes ($222). Dr Steve Saunders has his own fee schedule: new patients can book a 60-minute initial consultation with him online, and his other appointments and KangaTech assessments are arranged by phone. Full details, including payment options and our cancellation policy, are on our fees page.
How do I book a KangaTech assessment?
KangaTech assessments are booked by phone rather than online, so we can set aside the right time and equipment. Call the clinic on (08) 8410 5666 and the team will arrange it.
Do you have a clinic in the southern suburbs?
Yes — we consult from the Arruda Clinic at 375 Cross Road, Edwardstown SA 5039, serving the inner southern suburbs. Our physiotherapists are there Monday 7:30am to 5:00pm, Tuesday 2:00pm to 6:00pm, Wednesday 7:30am to 5:30pm and Thursday 2:00pm to 6:00pm, and appointments can be booked through HotDoc just like the city clinic.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Things come up — we understand. Please give us at least 24 hours' notice so we can offer your time to another patient. A reminder SMS is sent 48 hours before your appointment. Missed appointments or cancellations with less notice may incur a fee equal to the full consultation fee — though if you develop cold or flu-like symptoms, reschedule without charge. Call (08) 8410 5666 or manage your booking through HotDoc.
Do I need to be sporty or injured to see you?
Not at all. While our background is in elite sport, most of our patients are everyday people managing pain, recovering from surgery, improving strength or simply wanting to move better. Everyone is welcome.