ACC’s meagre payment increase for physiotherapists neglects the costs of treating patients across the country and puts further pressure on our already stressed health system, says Physiotherapy New Zealand (PNZ) Chief Executive Sandra Kirby.

At a time when the health system is stretched by COVID-19, winter illness, and reduced access to overseas trained professionals, ACC this week notified physiotherapists that an Allied Health Services Pricing Uplift will take effect on 1 August, including a tiny 1.95 per cent increase across all treatment rates.

“With costs faced by all New Zealanders, including physiotherapists, on the rise, this less than two per cent increase is negligent of patient care and doesn’t reflect the current economy or impact of COVID-19. We are extremely disappointed that ACC are so out of touch with current costs. For the calculations to not fully consider rising practice costs, particularly following years during which physiotherapists have supported ACC through the global pandemic, is remiss to say the least.

“The impact of COVID-19 has not been considered, including the notable costs our members have incurred to treat patients safely following government infection prevention measures. And recent Allied Health MECA (Multi Employer Collective Agreement) increases will further add to the costs of treating ACC clients,” said Sandra Kirby.

While physiotherapists are ideally placed to relieve pressure on the health and disability system, the feedback PNZ has given ACC on mounting practice costs appears to have been ignored.

Relevant physiotherapy pricing needs to be addressed immediately. However, despite ACC indicating a commitment to transparency, PNZ is yet to receive details of their calculations.

By Physiotherapy New Zealand (PNZ)