ACC is New Zealand’s accident compensation scheme which provides 24-hour no-fault personal injury insurance cover and covers anyone in New Zealand including overseas visitors. You do not require a doctor’s referral to get physiotherapy either under ACC or privately.
In order to get cover under ACC the following two criteria have to be met unless it is of a gradual onset due to work:
1. External Force i.e.
- Running
- Being hit by something
- Pushing
- Pulling
- Lifting
- Banging into something or someone
2. Gravity i.e.
- Bending
- Throwing etc.
If you believe you have OOS (occupational overuse syndrome or RSI) due to work, this can be covered under ACC, however, you will need to see your GP to start the process before you can come for physiotherapy, if ACC does not feel that you claim is coverable under their regulations, they still pay up to the date of decision. Please ring if you require further information on this and ask to speak to Mandy.