HAVE A QUESTION?

FAQS

Are you wanting to know more about what we do and don't do? Have a read through some of our frequently asked questions below, and get in touch with us to find out more.

Have A Question? We Are Here To Help

Do you provide OT services under Department of Veterans Affiars

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No, we don't provide these services.

There are other OT providers in each town that provide these services.

Do you charge for travel?

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Yes, we do charge for travel. We have to charge for travel to be viable withour mobile services in rural NSW.

We do our very best to always be sharing travel costs to reduce the costs on all participants.

We are able to offer telehealth or in clinic appointments (Gunnedah) based if this is the most suitable option for the participant and the referral.

We strongly believe it is best practice for adult OT services to observe and assess participants in their own environments. This way we can explore recommendations that suit the environments and the participants needs.

How do I know when to refer to a dietitian?

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Here are some signs to watch out for:

Poor eating habits: If someone with a disability isn't eating well, it could be a sign they need some extra help. This might mean they're skipping meals, not eating enough, or making unhealthy food choices due to their disability.

Participant lacking energy: A dietitian helps people with disabilities lacking energy by assessing their diet, identifying barriers, and recommending energy-dense foods and meal timing strategies. They provide education and support to empower individuals and caregivers in making informed dietary choices, ensuring consistent energy levels and overall well-being

Physical function concerns: A dietitian supports individuals with physical impairments, such as amputees and those with spinal injuries, by offering practical solutions for meal preparation and addressing eating challenges. They provide personalized guidance on nutrition to support muscle health, energy levels, and overall well-being, while advocating for accessible resources and technologies to enhance independence and quality of life.

Enteral feeding: People with disabilities who rely on enteral feeding through a tube might need guidance to ensure they're getting all the necessary nutrients to support their unique needs.

Chewing and swallowing issues: Difficulty chewing or swallowing can be common among people with disabilities and can make it hard for them to eat a balanced diet. A dietitian can help find ways to make eating easier and more enjoyable.

Fussy eating or restricted diets: Some people with disabilities may have sensory issues or preferences that lead to picky eating or following restricted diets. A dietitian can help ensure they're still getting all the nutrients they need despite these challenges.

Weight issues – underweight: If someone with a disability is underweight, they may need special help to gain weight in a healthy way that takes into account their specific circumstances and needs.

Symptom-based concerns: Issues like diarrhea or constipation can affect people with disabilities and may be related to diet. A dietitian can help identify foods that might be causing problems and suggest alternatives tailored to their disability.

Diabetes with people with an intellectual disability: Managing diabetes can be more complex for people with intellectual disabilities. A dietitian can provide personalized advice to help manage blood sugar levels while considering their unique needs and challenges.

Planning a menu: Whether it's for a supported home or individual meals, planning a menu that meets the dietary needs of people with disabilities can be challenging. A dietitian can help create balanced and nutritious meal plans that accommodate their specific requirements.

Weight loss advice for people with disabilities: If someone with a disability needs to lose weight, a dietitian can provide personalized advice, support, and education tailored to their disability. They can also help with practical aspects like grocery shopping and meal preparation.

Wound healing: Whether it's a new wound or a chronic one, nutrition plays a crucial role in the healing process for people with disabilities. A dietitian can recommend foods and supplements to support wound healing and prevent complications, considering their disability-related needs.

Remember, everyone's needs are unique, so if you notice any of these signs in someone with a disability, it's worth considering a referral to a dietitian who can provide personalized support and guidance tailored to their individual circumstances.

What can the dietitian help me with?

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Nutritional support for symptom-based concerns- issues like Diarrhea, vomiting, constipation

Nutritional support for weight concerns - weight loss advise if overweight or underweight.
Fussy eating or restricted diets.

Nutritional enhancement menu planning.

Nutritional support for wound healing/management.

Nutritional support relating to chewing or swallowing issues.
Nutrition risks such as Malnutrition & weight loss.
Enteral (tube) Feeding.                    

Chronic Disease Management, Diabetes management, blood glucose management, hypertension, respiratory concerns etc.

How do I make a referral and what is the process?

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Simply complete the online referral form or download and fill out the PDF, then send it on to our team.

The referral is reviewed, a decision on acceptance is made and the referral is then prioritised.

An assessment and report is completed and funding approval will need to be confirmed.

A confirmation referral is sent to the referral source or participant, and the assessment will then commence.

If you need any assiatnce with the referral process please contact our customer support team - 0493 133 667.

What towns do you cover?

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Currently we cover Tamworth, Gunnedah, Armidale, Narrabri, Manilla, Quirindi, and all towns in between.

We are covering Armidale from June 2023 and are excited to service this area.

The areas we cover may change and we are more than happy to discuss options.

What is the cancellation policy?

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If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact our customer support officer on 0493 133 667. If a planned appointment is cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, one hour of service will be charged.

If the clinician has travelled to the assessment and it is cancelled, full travel plus one hour will be charged.

Do you provide paediatric services?

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At this stage we do not provide OT paediatric ongoing therapy services.

The only OT paediatrics services we may consider is equipment prescription and home modifications. If you have a request specifically for this service, please complete the required referral form and submit accordingly. A member of our team will be in contact with you to ensure we are the best service to assist.

We will generally accept referrals for young adults form approx 16 years and above for OT services. We are keen to ensure we are the best provider for the participant so we appreciate information on the referral form regarding the situation and goals of OT.

Our dietitian services is assisting with children and adult requests. Our dietitian can assist with a variety of childrens dietitian related needs, including fussy eating, weight management, tube feeding.

Do you provide OT services for aged care?

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At this stage, we do not provide services under aged care packages. We apologise for the inconvenience.