GMHBA with Kieser
We're supporting eligible* members with access to Kieser's Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis or Spinal programs.
We’re working with Kieser to support eligible* members with access to physiotherapy-led osteoarthritis programs designed to reduce pain, improve strength and help delay joint surgery. Through GMHBA funding, eligible* members can participate in Kieser’s Hip & Knee or Spinal Osteoarthritis Chronic Disease Management Programs.
*To be eligible for GMHBA funding for the Kieser Hip & Knee Program, members must hold an active GMHBA hospital cover that includes the clinical categories Bone, Joint and Muscle and Joint Replacements and have served the relevant 12-month waiting periods. Members must have a diagnosis of osteoarthritis confirmed by diagnostic imaging, be identified by their GP as being at risk of requiring joint surgery within the next three years (with no surgery booked or planned), and report an average pain level of at least 4/10 over the past month. Members must not have been an active Kieser member within the previous 12 months, must not have participated in a GMHBA-funded Kieser program of the same clinical stream within the past three years, and must meet Kieser’s program-specific accessibility criteria. Each program may be accessed once every three years, subject to ongoing eligibility.
Kieser Osteoarthritis Chronic Disease Management Programs
The Kieser Osteoarthritis Chronic Disease Management Programs are 15-week, physiotherapy-led strength training programs designed for GMHBA members with a primary diagnosis of hip, knee or spinal osteoarthritis. These programs aim to reduce pain and symptoms, improve strength and quality of life, and help delay the need for surgery.
Programs are available to eligible* GMHBA members.
-
9 one-on-one physiotherapy sessions, including the initial assessment
-
8 one-on-one strength training sessions with an exercise physiologist or exercise scientist
-
A physiotherapist-designed, independent strength training program consisting of 26 supervised sessions using Kieser equipment
-
Access to the Kieser Konnect app
-
An education program to support long-term management of your condition
-
15 weeks access to Kieser strength training clinics
Eligibility
To be eligible, members must meet all of the following requirements:
- Hold an active GMHBA hospital cover that includes the clinical categories Bone, Joint and Muscle and Joint Replacements
- Have served the relevant 12-month waiting periods
- Have a diagnosis of osteoarthritis, confirmed by diagnostic imaging
- Be identified by a GP as being at risk of requiring joint surgery within the next three years (no surgery is currently booked or planned)
- Report an average pain level of at least 4/10 over the past month
- Meet Kieser’s program-specific accessibility criteria
Not have been:
- An active Kieser member within the previous 12 months, or
- A participant in a GMHBA-funded Kieser program of the same clinical stream within the past three years
About Kieser
Kieser offers structured programs that bring together physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and strength training, delivered by qualified health professionals throughout Australia. Each program is designed to meet the individual needs of members with osteoarthritis.
By focusing on muscle strength, Kieser programs aim to help members improve mobility and manage symptoms. Programs can also support members in delaying surgery or in recovery if surgery is needed in the future.
FAQs
Eligible* members must hold GMHBA hospital cover that includes Bone, Joint and Muscle and Joint Replacements, have served the relevant waiting periods, and meet clinical and program-specific eligibility criteria, including a confirmed diagnosis of osteoarthritis, per the above.
Yes. A GP must confirm your osteoarthritis diagnosis (with diagnostic medical imaging) and identify that you are at risk of requiring joint surgery within the next three years, with no surgery currently booked or planned.
GMHBA provides funding for eligible* members to participate in the program. Any out-of-pocket costs (if applicable) will be explained before you commence.
You must not have been an active Kieser member within the previous 12 months to be eligible* for GMHBA funding.
Each program may be accessed once every three years, subject to ongoing eligibility.
The 15-week program includes physiotherapy assessments, supervised strength training, independent exercise sessions, education, and access to Kieser’s specialised equipment and digital support app.
Targeted strength training may help reduce joint load, improve muscle support, and support mobility for people with osteoarthritis. Many members also report improvements in daily function and comfort.
The program is designed to support strength, mobility, and symptom management, which may help some members delay the need for joint or spinal surgery.
Members receive education and exercise guidance to support long-term management of their condition beyond the program.
Kieser has clinics across Australia. Availability depends on location and program capacity. Find your nearest location here.
The app supports your program by tracking exercises, providing education and helping you stay engaged throughout the 15 weeks.
Members with surgery already booked or planned are not eligible for the GMHBA-funded program.