DVA Support

Exercise Physiology and How It Supports DVA White and Gold Card Holders

At Foundation Allied Health, our physiology and physiotherapy team are passionate about supporting veterans and their families to live healthier, more active lives. One of the most effective ways we do this is through exercise physiology (EP), a service fully covered for eligible DVA White and Gold Card holders.

How to Access Exercise Physiology with DVA

Gaining access to this is as easy as making an appointment with your GP to discuss your needs. A referral is created and emailed to Foundation Allied Health or brought to your first appointment. White card holders can access 12 appointments per referral cycle for clinically necessary treatments. Gold Card holders are entitled to as many clinically necessary appointments as required. Typically, we see white card holders twice a week and gold card holders 2-3 times per week for 30-minute sessions.

There are no out-of-pocket costs to DVA card holders for our appointments, as these are funded by the scheme.

What is Exercise Physiology?

Exercise physiology is not just about getting stronger or fitter. It’s about improving quality of life, maintaining independence, managing chronic conditions, and enhancing mental well-being. For veterans, this can make a profound difference.

Exercise physiologists are university-trained allied health professionals who design and deliver individualised exercise programs. These programs are evidence-based and tailored to suit each person’s medical conditions, physical abilities, and personal goals.

Unlike general fitness training, exercise physiology is clinical in nature; it focuses on rehabilitation, chronic disease management, injury prevention, and long-term health.

Benefits for DVA White and Gold Card Holders

DVA Card Holders

1. Chronic Condition Management

Many veterans live with conditions such as:

· Musculoskeletal injuries

· Diabetes and cardiovascular disease

· Respiratory conditions

· Arthritis and osteoporosis

Exercise physiology provides safe, structured programs to help manage these conditions, reduce pain, and improve physical function.

2. Rehabilitation and Injury Recovery

Veterans with White Cards (covering accepted conditions) can access targeted programs that focus on recovery, improving mobility, and preventing re-injury. Gold Card holders can access care for any condition.

3. Improving Daily Function

Everyday activities, such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or even playing with grandchildren, become easier with improved strength, flexibility, and balance. Holidays, taking new adventures, meeting new people, and joining in the fun with friends.

4. Mental Health Support

Physical activity is a proven strategy to support mental well-being.

Regular exercise can:

· Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

· Improve sleep quality

· Boost mood and energy levels

· Provide a sense of routine and achievement

For many veterans, exercise physiology offers not just physical benefits but also a pathway to improved confidence, resilience, and social connection.

Setting and Achieving Personal Goals

At Foundation Allied Health, we work closely with each veteran to set realistic, meaningful goals, whether it’s walking further without pain, returning to a favourite sport, or simply being able to do more around the home.

We also understand the importance of social support and can help to find groups you are interested in. Additionally, our one-on-one sessions allow private, focused attention and care.

The Takeaway

Exercise physiology is more than exercise; it’s a pathway to better health, independence, and well-being for veterans. By addressing both physical and mental health, EP empowers DVA White and Gold Card holders to live fuller, healthier lives.

At Foundation Allied Health in Lawson, we are honoured to provide this care to those who have served. If you or someone you know could benefit, we welcome you to reach out and discuss how exercise physiology can help.

📞 Contact us today on 0466 344 866 to find out more.