Specialist input may be beneficial when a child or young person experiences:

• Persistent or recurrent pain

• Pain that does not align with imaging or test results

• Significant fear of movement or distress related to pain

• Difficulty participating in school, sport, or daily life

• Multiple previous therapies with limited improvement

• Complex musculoskeletal or pain presentations requiring integrated care

• ACC‑related injuries where recovery has become prolonged or challenging

You do not need a referral to seek private specialist physiotherapy treatment. However, if your child’s claim is eligible under the ACC criteria for Physiotherapy Specialist Services you will require a referral from another healthcare practitioner. This referral needs to clearly state “Physiotherapy Specialist Assessment”

ACC funds Physiotherapy Specialist services for eligible clients under a variation of the Allied Health Services Contract.

To refer under ACC, the referral must:

• Be for a child or young person with an accepted ACC claim

• Be made by a registered health practitioner

• Clearly state “Physiotherapy Specialist Assessment” in the referral

• Include:

  • ACC claim number

  • Date of injury

  • Relevant clinical information

Specialist assessments are typically longer and more comprehensive than standard physiotherapy appointments.

They may include:

• A detailed clinical history and understanding of what matters most to the child and whānau

• Thorough physical and functional assessment

• Exploration of pain, movement confidence, load, and recovery

• Review of previous treatments and investigations

• Identification of barriers to progress

• Development of a clear, individualised treatment and rehabilitation plan

Where appropriate, Mandy provides:

• A Specialist Assessment, Rehabilitation and Treatment Plan (ARTP) for ACC clients

• Guidance and recommendations for ongoing care

• Liaison with referrers and treating clinicians

• Short‑term specialist follow‑up or shared care, before returning the child to their primary provider

This approach aligns with ACC expectations for Physiotherapy Specialist service delivery, which emphasise timely expert review, clear planning, and coordinated care.

It is always best to check with your specific insurer and policy. Many insurers do support physiotherapy for rehabilitation. If your Southern Cross health insurance policy includes Physiotherapy coverage, we can process a claim for you during your appointment. This will help determine the amount Southern Cross covers for your treatment costs, and we will receive payment directly from them. If you’re uncertain about your coverage, we can verify it online during your appointment for your convenience.

For a physiotherapy appointment, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to the affected area. Shorts or sweatpants are ideal for lower-body issues, while sleeveless tops or singlets are required for upper-body concerns.

Choose supportive footwear. If your physiotherapist recommends specific items, bring them along. Prioritise comfort and ease of movement for effective assessments and treatments.

Email referral

Referrals can be sent securely to:
admin@nurturepaeds.co.nz

Please include:

• Child and whānau contact details

• Referrer details

• ACC claim information (if applicable)

• Relevant reports or investigation results

SR Referrals Network

Referrals are also accepted via the SR Referrals network. Please ensure the referral clearly indicates Physiotherapy Specialist Assessment.

Once received, referrals are triaged and families are contacted directly to arrange the most appropriate appointment.

We understand that plans can change. To provide the best care for all our patients, kindly notify us at least 24 hours in advance if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. This allows us to accommodate others in need.

If you’re dissatisfied with your treatment, please discuss it with your therapist for prompt resolution. If your concerns persist or you want to make a formal complaint, you can contact the Health and Disabilities Commissioner’s Office at 0800 112233. For general feedback, comments, or compliments, feel free to reach out to us via phone or email. Your input is important to us.