Teachers Health launches new osteoarthritis service for members

Teachers Health Group is offering a new service to members for the non-surgical management of knee and hip osteoarthritis and spinal pathologies.

The new service, provided by Kieser, is available through Teachers Healthcare Services which helps members to access a range of services to support their health and wellbeing.

Kieser provides a safe and specific environment for strength training under the guidance of Physiotherapists and Exercise Scientists.  Kieser caters for arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions in a unique environment free of mirrors and music you see at a traditional gym. The program is for people with knee or hip osteoarthritis or spinal pathology who may have a need for surgery within the next three years. Kieser’s high-quality conservative management program is designed to delay or even avoid the need for surgery.  The program will be led by the member’s GP or Specialist and requires diagnostic review and approval to participate.

Teachers Health CEO Brad Joyce said Kieser Care Plans are designed to improve symptoms, restore function and mobility, improve quality of life, and prevent or delay joint surgery.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this new program to our members, who are the heart of everything we do. It’s vital we offer programs that support improved health outcomes and the accessibility of care for members when they need it,” Mr Joyce said.

Teachers Health is encouraging members to get in touch with Teachers Healthcare Services or Kieser for information and collateral about the program so that they can discuss suitability with their GP or specialists.

Participants will receive physiotherapy sessions, exercise science/physiology sessions and twice weekly strength training. To be eligible for the 14-week hip and knee programs, members must have Top Hospital (Gold), Mid Hospital (Basic Plus) or Basic Hospital (Basic Plus). Eligibility for the 18-week spinal program will require membership of Top Hospital (Gold), Mid Classic, Mid Hospital (Basic Plus), Basic Hospital (Basic Plus) or Starter pack (Basic Plus). Clinical eligibility criteria also apply and is determined by your GP or Specialist and Kieser Physiotherapist.

The program is facilitated by Teachers Healthcare Services and delivered by Kieser in person at one of the 26 Kieser Clinics located around Australia.