Empower Healthcare have teamed up with the world’s most trusted home and community care technology provider AlayaCare to improve referral on-boarding and operational efficiencies.
Why Have We Introduced AlayaCare?
AlayaCare’s advanced technology will strengthen our services to deliver higher quality Home Care to our clients.
This highly innovative technology enables us to integrate a seamless, end-to-end paperless management approach to clients and consumers.
Referral on-boarding will now be completed online, confirmations to case managers and clients will be electronic.
Having a complete cloud-based workflow process now provides our clients with:
A faster and simpler on-boarding form
Significantly reduced time spent on paperwork
Diminished wait-times between on-boarding and first appointment booking
Enhanced compliance with increased documentation accuracy
Peace of mind that consumer information is stored in a highly secure cloud-based environment
No one likes paperwork and repetitive administration tasks associated with their role. We have trialled our new process with a pilot group of clients and they have overwhelmingly found it faster, simpler and so easy to use.
We know our clients are going to appreciate the introduction of AlayaCare.
Better still, the Empower team can do what they do best – focus on providing exceptional care based on consumer end goals and less on administrative tasks.
Plus, we are making a conscious effort in reducing the environmental impact and climate change.
When will AlayaCare go live?
We will launch AlayaCare on Wednesday 11 March.
How Have Clients Been Notified?
Home Care & NDIS Clients have been notified by email and will be sent a follow-up communication with a direct link to our e-referral form.
From Thur 5 March, the referral form will also be found on multiple locations of our website.
An FAQ can be found below to pre-empt any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete the new referral form?
Around 2-3 minutes.
Can I attach consumer data documentation within the on-boarding process?
Yes you can.
Who can I call if I have questions around completing the onboarding form?
Anyone from the national office Home Care Services team on 03 9583 1364.
Will I receive a written confirmation once a referral form has been submitted? Yes, an email confirmation will be sent straight to your inbox.
Yes, an email confirmation will be sent straight to your inbox.
No one wants to deal with an enquiry from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. Neither do you want the heightened stress from a choking incident possibly damaging the credibility of your facility. And what if an investigation determines the incident as a premature and preventable fatality? Transitioning to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) global framework could be one of many strategies that protects the reputation of your organisation by reducing these risks and increasing the safety and well being of your consumers.
Part 2 of the IDDSI blog series explains how the IDDSI framework trumps the current Australian Standards and how we can help you and your staff either begin or complete accomplishment of the transition process.
The size of the problem
As dysphagia often happens at the same time as other health conditions, it is difficult to be certain of the prevalence rate. However, and alarmingly, research indicates that 50-75% of nursing home residents have a prevalence of dysphagia (1).
And as you may be aware, many of these instances can be avoided if dysphagia is treated timely and appropriately.
What is more worrying, is that if dysphagia is not treated appropriately by staff, then besides choking, associated health complications include pneumonia, chest infections, dehydration, malnutrition and weight loss.
Often dysphagia residents exhibit sociated declined health, so staff will have difficulty in administering medication and this can result in hospital admissions. In the worst cases, dysphagia can result in death.
When Professor Joe Ibrahim, Head of Health Law and Ageing Research Unit at the Department of Forensic Medicine at Monash analysed nursing home deaths within a 15-year period, he found over 3,000 deaths were considered premature and preventable (2).
“The study showed that choking was the second highest incidence that caused premature deaths in nursing homes.”
Don’t leave your residents to chance and become a statistic.
Why does the IDDSI Framework Trump the Australian Standards
While we have had voluntary national terminology in Australia that addresses food textures and thickened fluids for people with swallowing problems since 2007, the (IDDSI) Committee created global standardisations based on comprehensive evidence-based best practice. From recorded experiences, the recommendations accommodate a greater spectrum of severity, so there is far more accuracy in serving food textures and drink thicknesses appropriate for individual conditions.
Additionally, these standards have been introduced to reduce the variation in care. While staff are transient across geographic locations, a global standardisation aids in a universal understanding and approach that minimises risk.
There are three major changes between the existing Australian terminology to the IDDSI framework, such as 1. a new numbering system 2. colour code changes denoting the thickness of drinks, and 3. the removal of bread and sandwiches from the new IDDSI Level 6 Soft & Bite-Sized category.
By transitioning to the IDDSI standards, you and your staff can have peace of mind, knowing another advisory and protection level has been added, with these standards supported by peak bodies such as Speech Pathology Australia, Dietitians Association of Australia and the Institute of Hospitality in HealthCare. As all relevant health professionals are educated and trained to adopt the standards, further benefits yielded will include improved communication and collaboration.
Australia is joining more than 20 other countries including New Zealand, the US, Canada, and several European nations in implementing it.
The best way to implement this framework is through an AWARE-PREPARE & ADOPT strategy.
And this is where I can be of help to you.
I have created a FREE informative presentation for your staff involved in care and catering that addresses the first stage of Awareness.
Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They assist people with optimising their diet and nutrition to improve one’s health and quality of life, and to prevent and treat a range of chronic health conditions. Dietitians can also help patients manage nutrition at different stages of life, nutrient deficiencies, and food intolerances and allergies. Dietitians have sound university training accredited by the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA), and undertake continuous professional development that complies with the DAA guidelines for best practice.
Dietitians perform thorough nutrition assessments and monitoring, taking into account various factors including a patient’s medical, clinical and diet history, individual nutritional requirements and their health goals. This information helps accurately diagnose nutrition issues and forms a treatment plan that ensures patients receive quality evidenced-based care and achieve the best health outcomes.
Leah’s recent promotion to Home Care Physiotherapy Team Leader, allows her to be an advocate for the Home Care team and share ideas to management. Read her incredible stroke survivor story and his inspiring journey.
Why did you choose Empower?
I met the management team at the end of year conference for the University of Melbourne Physiotherapy graduates. Empower’s clinical educator gave a speech about their comprehensive new grad program and the regular professional development that they encouraged. It was a month or so after the conference that I received a call. It was from Adam, the CEO. He asked whether I was interested in coming in for an interview. I was completely unsure of what I wanted to do at the time, so I thought ‘why not!’. During the interview, I was impressed with how family oriented they were and that they appeared to care about every individual, so when they offered me the role I said ‘yes’ and here I am today.
What do you love most about your job?
Working in Aged Care is the most rewarding job I have ever had. The opportunity to meet, learn from and most importantly, help those with almost ten decades worth of life experience is something I am truly grateful for. I also work in the community, where I travel to clients houses and conduct rehabilitation-based therapy with them. Assisting someone to gain the strength and independence to safely remain in their own home or achieve their mobility goals is extremely rewarding.
Recently, I was promoted to Home Care Physiotherapy Team Leader. I have loving the opportunity to liaise with the Home Care team and advocate for their ideas to the management team.
What has been your most memorable moment?
There was a man who was admitted to the aged care facility after suffering a severe stroke. He had attended rehabilitation therapy at the hospital for months but was still unable to walk or support himself while sitting. He requested physiotherapy sessions on admission, so we began with simple exercises and progressed from there. He stands out so clearly in my mind as he was one of the most motivated people I have ever met! Every time I walked past his room; I would see him practising the exercises that I had given him. After a few months, he walked out of that facility and returned home with his family. He was truly a testament to what we can achieve when we put our mind to something and I’m so grateful that I was able to be part of such a journey!
In what ways has Empower supported your growth personally & professionally?
While at Empower, I’ve had the opportunity to progress from being a newly graduated physio to a Site Leader and now the Physiotherapy Home Care Team Leader. With a new grad program, fortnightly PD with the team, quarterly professional development with the entire company and funds to complete external professional development courses, Empower has provided me with many opportunities to grow in both a personal and professional sense.
In your new role, what will you be looking to achieve in 2020?
I’m looking forward to collaborating with the physiotherapists and osteopaths who work in the Home Care team to understand their difficulties and their ideas for improvement. I’m eager to explore these ideas in order to cultivate a team that is supported, motivated, engaged and destined for success.
What piece of advice would you give your new graduate self?
“Celebrate, Give it a go, Ask for feedback and Stay curious.”
I know there are a few in there but I think they’re all important! Celebrate your achievement – it’s huge! You’ve made it through university, and you have a world of opportunity just waiting for you. Take the time to let that soak in. Then when you’ve found a job, give everything a go and accept that you’re going to make mistakes! I’ve mentored and worked with a few new grads and it’s much easier to help someone to realise their own potential when they’re ready to give things a go, ask questions and take feedback on board. Finally, stay curious. Keep up to date with current research, make connections and question the way things are done. You’ll be surprised at how often you can truly make a positive change.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I love eating at interesting places, playing goal shooter in netball, reading Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings and hiking on windy days. I also love going to concerts, Christmas and spending quality with my family and friends.…
Since 1 May 2019, many hospitals, health care professionals, aged care organisations, disability providers, community groups and industry have been transitioning from the Australian Standardised Terminology to the global International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative ( IDDSI ) standards.
Today I would like to raise with you the importance of implementing the IDDSI framework and recommendations so that clinical care managers, food service team and nursing staff of residential aged care facilities are empowered to collaborate and create a positive impact in their facility.
Setting the Scene – The Size of the Problem
Did you also know that Dysphagia affects 50 to 75% of residents in aged care facilities?
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Committee recognised the need to create a ‘common language’ for dysphagia diets, to describe food textures and drink thickness to reduce the risk of incidence choking.
The incidence of choking on food is a whopping seven times greater for people over the age of 65 years presenting with frailty or acute illness. confusion amongst health and care workers combined with miscommunication regarding diet textures and drink consistencies, has resulted in increased choking deaths across Australia.
Due to these alarming statistics revealed today, The NSW Ombudsman’s report into Reviewable deaths of people with Disability in Residential Care, recommended that to reduce preventable deaths there must be improvement in identification and management of swallowing and choking risks and better communication about food textures that are safe for people with dysphagia to eat.
Prevention is the Key
Many instances of choking can be avoided if dysphagia is treated timely and appropriately.
What is more worrying, is that if dysphagia is not treated appropriately by staff, then besides choking, associated health complications include pneumonia, chest infections, dehydration, malnutrition and weight loss.
And with dysphagia residents exhibiting sociated declined health, staff will have difficulty in administering medication and this can result in hospital admissions. In the worst cases, dysphagia can result in death.
No one wants to deal with an enquiry from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission including the heightened stress arising from the possibility of a facility facing a credibility risk, especially if the investigation determines the incident as a premature and preventable fatality.
When Professor Joe Ibrahim, Head of Health Law and Ageing Research Unit at the Department of Forensic Medicine at Monash analysed nursing home deaths within a 15 year period, he found over 3,000 deaths were considered premature and preventable.
The study showed that choking was the second highest incidence that caused premature deaths in nursing homes.
What’s the Difference?
There are three major changes between the existing Australian terminology to the IDDSI framework, such as:
A new numbering system
Colour code changes denoting the thickness of drinks, and
The removal of bread and sandwiches from the new IDDSI Level 6 Soft & Bite-Sized category.
Why Implement IDDSI Standards and Framework?
While we have had voluntary national terminology in Australia that addresses food textures and thickened fluids for people with swallowing problems since 2007, the IDDSI Committee has created global standardisations based on comprehensive evidence-based best practice. Several years of pilot trials can now provide greater assurance that meals and drinks are prepared appropriately and according to the severity of dysphagia.
These standards have been introduced to reduce the variation in care. While staff are transient across geographic locations, a global standardisation aids in a universal understanding and approach that minimises risk.
Moreover, staff can have peace of mind knowing peak bodies such as Speech Pathology Australia, Dietitians Association of Australia and the Institute of Hospitality in HealthCare support these standards and add another protection level when dealing with dysphagia consumers.
As all relevant health professionals become educated and trained to adopt the IDSSI standards, further benefits yielded will include improved communication and collaboration.
Australia has now joined more than 20 other countries including New Zealand, the US, Canada, and several European nations in implementing IDDSI.
The best way to implement this framework is through an AWARE, PREPARE & ADOPT strategy.
Author,
Shirley Webber, Dietitian
Is Your Team Aware of IDDSI?
I have been helping several facilities introduce the IDDSI framework and I can help your facility too.
I have created a FREE educational presentation for your staff involved in care and catering that address the first stage of Awareness.
Ideal for catering managers, food service assistants, cooks, chefs, clinical managers and nursing staff in residential aged care settings.
What they will learn:
What is IDDSI and why it’s needed
Explanation of the changes from existing to new standards
The IDDSI Framework including detailed descriptions of each food and fluid texture
Practical demonstration of apply the IDDSI Flow & Food test, and adjusting consistency
Implementation, resources and tools to aid adoption and implementation
The practicalities of applying the IDDSI Framework
Following the presentation:
Your senior management team walk away with a fresh perspective and transition readiness to start the mapping the preparation and handling process of foods and liquids in your facility.
Care staff confidently categorise and test foods by important food characteristics such as moistness, stickiness, hardness and toughness including particle size for minced foods.
Watch this video to learn more about the workshop.
Sarah Tordeich’s collective strength in clinical experience along with power of compassion and nurturance is making her a much-loved Regional Manager. Find out what makes Sarah tick and why she chose to take a leap into management.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m half Kiwi/Croatian. I made the decision to move to Australia two years ago and nearly six weeks after I decided, I was here! If you know me well, you’ll realise this is very unlike me to be so drastic!
Time has absolutely flown by and I have a travel wish list that I want to tick-off within Australia. I really enjoy travelling and would love to return to Europe one day. I have a keen interest in running and hoping to complete my first full marathon this year! As expected, I love watching the kiwis play! I travel back and forth between Australia and NZ for quick trips to see fam and friends! I am social and love catching up with friends every other weekend, though I would consider myself a bit of a homebody too!
Why did you choose Empower?
Having spent the last 8 years, predominantly as a private practice clinician, I have been seeking a new challenge in my career that was an extension beyond practicing as a clinician. I wanted to be able to contribute to the bigger picture and be part of a company in a larger capacity; where I could utilise the skills and knowledge gained to help educate other fellow clinicians.
I never thought, but have learnt to realise, I wanted to be a leader. I stumbled across this job. The opportunity to become a Site Leader stood out for me. As soon as I met Matthew and Adam, I instantly felt at ease and their belief in my ability to grow into the role was the turning point. I also really gravitated towards Empower being a relatively new company; wanting to be a part of a growing company and contributing to its success, sealed the deal. The decision was further supported knowing the values and principles that Empower are founded upon were very much in line with my own.
What do you love most about your job?
I enjoy the variety of work in my role. I enjoy mentoring my team, from new clinicians right through to senior clinicians. As a leader, I collaborate and liaise with a range of Empower staff and clients with the primary focus on service solutions and continuity. Best of all, I continue to use my clinical skills.
I have always felt that my biggest learnings weren’t necessarily at uni, but the knowledge I have gained both clinically and non-clinically when thrown into the big wide world. Having the right people in my corner has helped me to grow as a clinician and as a person. I love most that in my role; I can mirror my experience and provide the same level of support.
So, if you love autonomy and have a desire to give back, then becoming a Site Leader may be a career path worth exploring.
The opportunity to learn from clients is endless. The room for career progression and ongoing job satisfaction within Empower is evident. All these things combined are what I love most about this role.
What has been your most memorable moment?
The most rewarding moment I have had whilst working at Empower was when a consumer I was routinely seeing each morning, wished me Merry Christmas and a safe holiday at home in NZ and commented that her mornings were made better with me visiting each day and loved her regular chats whilst I treated her.
Thinking back on it later, it really made me smile knowing yet again, that whilst our role as clinicians is to assist with pain, function etc. we can also play a huge role in improving ones quality of life, purely through showing a genuine interest in them as people.
Memorable moments to me also include being trusted upon and knowing I am viewed as approachable by staff. Appreciating that all humans including my colleagues have busy lives, being empathetic and aware of this and showing support is hugely important. I work on an ‘open door’ policy and that they can come to me anytime with any question.
In what ways has Empower supported your growth personally & professionally?
Having a team of staff that believe in my capabilities and peer support from the other Regional Managers has enabled me to transition smoothly into the role.
They appreciate my learning and behavioural style and have been great at giving me feedback which has helped me learn a lot about my strengths, areas of weakness and what I would like to achieve in 2020.
I value the autonomy, flexibility and trust to become the regional manager I want to be.
In your new role, what will you be looking to achieve in 2020?
Working alongside my fellow Regional Managers and management team, we are streamlining processes to accommodate our recent rapid growth and future scalability.
Another focus will be on the new graduates and new staff; to learn about them, their work and personal goals, to help develop them clinically and to ensure they are satisfied and happy at work.
Being new to the role of Regional Manager, I am still learning the ropes, however as I become more adept I aim to have a significant role in contributing ideas, being a part of new processes and potential growth opportunities and establishing great working relationships within my region and the wider team.
What piece of advice would you give your new graduate self?
Appreciate all the hours you put in at uni learning, the people who helped make it happen, and immersing yourself in as many PD opportunities, courses and new graduate programs available to you, to really help develop your skills.
I truly believe my biggest learning developed over years of applying my clinical skills in a variety …
Health related issues for people with a disability are not uncommon, and often impact on their ability to independence and choice under the NDIS. The NDIA recognised this last year and in October 2019, included an additional range of disability-related health supports to purchase using NDIS funding, if they are a regular part of the Participant’s life and a result of their disability.
Many of these health-related disability supports can be claimed using existing line items for disability support workers and therapists (including OTs, physiotherapists, psychologists, ECEI specialists, dieticians and exercise physiologists).
Here’s a dietetic example of how we can now provide additional allied health-related support services.
“With a PEG the role of a dietitian is working out the feeding regimes. We don’t do tube changes or assist in maintenance of the PEG, but we do give advice on water flushes of the tubes which is just a part of PEG management. The main care for a PEG is done by medical of nursing staff. We can also assist care facilities on developing or reviewing their PEG policies”
Empower Healthcare’s Range of Disability-Related Allied Health Supports
Empower Healthcare provides the following services for these health-related supports and can discuss how these supports can be assessed and implemented.
Podiatry Disability-Related Health Supports
Assessment, development, implementation and periodic review of a podiatry care plan by an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent clinician
Training of an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker to implement the podiatry care plan and perform any required daily maintenance and care related to the plan
Diabetic Management Disability-Related Health Supports
Development and periodic review of a diabetic management plan by an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent clinician
Implementation of a diabetic management plan and daily maintenance and care by an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker
Training of an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker to implement a diabetic management plan
Nutrition Disability-Related Health Supports
Dietetic consultations and the development and periodic review of a nutritional meal plan by an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent clinician
Implementation of a nutritional meal plan by an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker
Training of an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker to implement the nutritional meal plan
Provision of PEG maintenance and care by a suitably qualified and competent worker
Training of an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker to provide PEG maintenance and care
Wound and Pressure Care Disability-Related Health Supports
Wound care and pressure care (including pressure injury management) by an NDIS-funded suitably qualified and competent worker.
For more information, download the Department of Social Services fact sheet
As a registered NDIS provider with experience in the assessment & treatment of a variety of conditions and strong partnerships with leading equipment and home modification providers, we can facilitate all your allied health needs provisioned under the NDIS.
We assist NDIS participants from 10 – 64 years of age.
Our convenient, NDIS services range from provide clients with high quality occupational therapy, physiotherapy, podiatry, and dietetics, and in the comfort of their own environment.
These services also include timely and effective communication to support the administration of your clients’ funds.
We want your client’s to experience the best allied health services, and stay independent, happy, healthy in their own home.
We Understand Your NDIS Needs and Deliver
Rapid Response – that’s our service guarantee
We acknowledge all NDIS referrals within 4 hours.
Appointments are booked within 48 hours.
Prompt Treatment
Initial appointments completed within 14 days of referral.
Continuity of Care
The same clinician will be assigned to all appointments for a consumer.
Timely Reporting
We update Case Managers on the same day or within 24 hours of initial appointment.
Cost Effective Services
There are no hidden fees.
Our pricing includes travel, treatment and documentation time.
Professional and Friendly Team
We take the time to get to know every consumer, allowing us to create meaningful care plans to support their life goals.
We are experts in co-ordinating services provided through the NDIS and scheduling private consultations.
We are delighted to welcome Mike McDermett as our NDIS Relationship Manager. He joins the Empower family to expand our NDIS services footprint and strengthen our relationships with NDIS focused organisations and participants.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I have spent the past 10 years working across the disability sector in Victoria in a variety of roles including Community Engagement and Service Innovation. I have been involved in the NDIS since its earliest days in Barwon. Prior to this I worked in online travel and as a teacher.
What do you love most about your role?
The opportunity to make a difference by creating relationships which will increase the number of Empower staff changing lives for people with a disability.
In your new position at Empower, what will you be looking to achieve in 2020?
Building strong relationships with NDIS focused organisations and participants. I also aim to provide help and support for all Empower staff regarding the NDIS.
Your thoughts around allied health services for an NDIS future
Allied health under the old system was difficult and costly to access. The NDIS has opened the opportunity for people with a disability to use allied health in innovative ways to create independence and they have the right to choose who they work with. Previous underutilised services like Occupational Therapy and Podiatry are now popular with the NDIS, giving people with a disability access to funding. Allied health is also now available for ages 10 to 18 and older adults that under the previous system had very little.
What attracted you to Empower?
I was attracted to the opportunity of working with allied health staff who I have always found professional and passionate to work with in previous positions. I also enjoy the process of building positive relationships with external organisations. Empower Healthcare provides a fresh approach to allied health in its support of staff and this is a key reason why I was attracted to this position.
Out of the workplace, what are your interests and hobbies?
I am father to two young people who keep me busy. I like to trail run and am attempting to re-learn the clarinet after a break of 30 years.
What’s a fun fact about you many people may not know?
I collect first edition Ghost Books from the era that is considered the “golden age” of ghost stories 1900 -1930
Let Us Help You with All Your NDIS Needs
As a registered NDIS provider with experience in the assessment & treatment of a variety of conditions and strong partnerships with leading equipment and home modification providers, we can facilitate all your allied health needs provisioned under the NDIS.
We assist NDIS participants from 10 – 64 years of age.
Our convenient, NDIS services range from provide clients with high quality occupational therapy, physiotherapy, podiatry, and dietetics, and in the comfort of their own environment.
These services also include timely and effective communication to support the administration of your clients’ funds.
We want your client’s to experience the best allied health services, and stay independent, happy, healthy in their own home.
We Understand Your NDIS Needs and Deliver
Rapid Response – that’s our service guarantee
We acknowledge all NDIS referrals within 4 hours.
Appointments are booked within 48 hours.
Prompt Treatment
Initial appointments completed within 14 days of referral.
Continuity of Care
The same clinician will be assigned to all appointments for a consumer.
Timely Reporting
We update Case Managers on the same day or within 24 hours of initial appointment.
Cost Effective Services
There are no hidden fees.
Our pricing includes travel, treatment and documentation time.
Professional and Friendly Team
We take the time to get to know every consumer, allowing us to create meaningful care plans to support their life goals.
We are experts in co-ordinating services provided through the NDIS and scheduling private consultations.
Following last week’s announcement by the Victorian government declaring a State of Disaster for six Local Government Areas and the Alpine Resorts, Empower Healthcare is showing its support by running an internal organisation bushfire disaster appeal to raise much needed funds for the Red Cross.
CEO, Adam Gilroy-Smith has pledged to match every employee donation. “As a community organisation, we want to help support the thousands of people who are struggling in evacuation centres and recovery hubs around the country and proud to support the Red Cross.”
Dealing with the immediate aftermath of the fires while many fires continue to burn across the state is a significant challenge that the government cannot manage alone. There are so many ways that Victorians who are in a fortunate position can help :
Fire/police/medical/volunteers – first responders
Communities that have lost homes Communities that have lost lives
Communities where businesses have been destroyed
Communities that have been evacuated
Communities that have injured animals, wiped out flora and fauna
Where Can You Donate?
See below for an outline of just a few of the available organisation’s that are supporting the bushfire disaster:
Supporting Victorian Fires
A Bushfire Disaster Appeal has been established in support community members affected by the recent bushfires in East Gippsland and Hume.
Donations to the Australian Red Cross and state-based brigades like the VIC or NSW Rural Fire Service will go towards bushfire relief. Red Cross Donations CFA Donations
Foodbank Victoria is providing much needed food and water to communities affected by the fires. Foodbank Donations
Giving Items
Charities like Givit specialise in goods, but act as a “charity broker” to avoid the trap of unwanted, random items.
The exact items people need are listed via charities and the public can match that or register the items they have, in case someone can use them.
Right now, Givit is running two specific campaigns supporting NSW and Queensland bushfire victims on top of its regular services. Givit Donations
Supporting Fallen firefighter families
The NSW RFS has created dedicated bank accounts to collect donations for the families of volunteer firefighters who have been tragically killed while on duty this fire season. RFS Donations GoFundMePageFalledfirefighters
Fire Affected Families
We can assist homeowners whose properties have been destroyed by the fires with kits to clear the property and find valuable items in the rubble. Samaritans Purse Donations
Evacuees
The St. Vincent de Paul Society is accepting donations on behalf of evacuees. $50 will provide food for an evacuated family. $150 will assist with bills and unanticipated expenses associated with the fire. St. Vincent de Paul Society Donations
The Salvation Army Emergency Services is currently providing meals to evacuees and frontline responders. Salvation Army Donations
Supporting Animal Rescue
Cash donations and a need for physical items for animals is important too.
Wildlife Victoria have a donations page.
Donations to our Victorian bushfire appeal will be distributed to wildlife shelters and carers to help rebuild enclosures and equipment that they have lost in the fires so that they can continue their lifesaving work, and support those that are struggling to cope with the enormous number of animals that will need care in the coming weeks and months. WildLife Victoria Donations
RSPCA is currently seeking monetary contributions….
“Whilst we really appreciate the offer, at the moment we are unable to accept donated goods as the time our volunteers and staff would spend sorting through goods is more valuable helping our impacted communities in other ways. If, and when, we are deployed to bushfire affected areas in the next few days we may launch a special appeal, but in the meantime if you would like to support our work the best way to do that is by making a donation here: RSPCA VIC Donations
Denis Yardin, one of our incredibly talented and passionate Osteopaths, clarifies the mystery and misunderstanding behind his profession and explains the many benefits behind Osteopathy.
Osteopathy has exploded in popularity in Australia. Many people have started to visit them for their aches and pains without having a clear understanding of who they are and what they do. It is therefore our responsibility as health care providers to give an insight into how Osteopaths can help people within the community.
So, what is Osteopathy and why do people choose to see one? This blog aims to create an informative view on the profession of Osteopathy and how it can benefit people, along with examples to illustrate when someone would benefit from seeing an Osteopath.
WHAT IS OSTEOPATHY?
The International Academy of Osteopathy defines osteopathy as “a manual examination and treatment method of the integrated musculoskeletal, visceral system and craniosacral systems.”
Osteopaths assess the mobility and flexibility of the musculoskeletal, the vascular, the neurological, the visceral and fascial systems in all its integration. They value how the structure and function of those systems are interrelated and how the body uses its own self-healing mechanism to recover from injuries.
Examples of how an Osteopath would treat a patient could be as follows…
1. Hip Problem
A hip problem for instance may be resulting from multiple causes such as mechanical problems in the foot or knee, movement blockages within the pelvic joint, low back issues, or even circulation problems that may be related to the internal organs such as constipation.
An overall assessment of movement and specific musculoskeletal testing of several body structures are then used to differentiate between the tissues being affected and what are causing the problem. Once the origin of the condition is identified, the Osteopath uses a variety of manual techniques and exercise prescriptions, as well as patient education to help with the expected tissue healing prognosis.
2. Kidney problem
The visceral system includes all the organs present in the chest and abdominal cavity. A kidney problem may affect the mobility of the visceral fascia (connective tissue that connects/links the organs and all other tissues together within the body) which can lead to mobility/flexibility limitations in the musculoskeletal system, particularly around the torso where segmental neuronal supply is shared between the kidneys and skin/muscles.
An aspect of neural input to these organs relate to specific spinal cord segments. Therefore, a pain signal originating from an internal organ may affect muscles and skin that share the same spinal cord segment, and as a result, a patient may experience musculoskeletal pain without having any injury.
Specific visceral manipulation techniques may be used to encourage space within the abdomen to allow tension through fascia to free itself. Gentle manipulation technique is utilised with patient’s breathing which may relieve some discomfort. The Osteopaths may then reassess the patient’s back pain and treat where necessary.
Why should you choose to see an Osteopath?
Osteopaths conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify mobility impairments within the body systems and investigate the exact cause of the problem. We mainly use hands-on assessments and treatment techniques to manage structural and bio-mechanical dysfunctions with a holistic approach to assist with health optimisation. Those manual techniques are relatively gentle and are usually aimed at structures such as muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, fascia and other connective tissues.
The biopsychosocial model of health is frequently mentioned by Osteopaths as it is aligned with our treatment approach. It is the belief that biological, psychological and social factors play a profound role on how pain is perceived and dealt with by patients. Those factors are interrelated and display a complex relationship within themselves as shown in the diagram below.
An illustration of the biopsychosocial model comprised of biological, psychological, and sociological influences.
A patient-centered approach is taken, which considers the person in their entirety, including their goals, needs and expectations. Osteopathy is all about holism and therefore may also collaborate with other allied health modalities, to best consider patient outcomes.
Osteopaths educate patients regarding their condition and the different management strategies based on the latest evidence. They would hence always explain why they choose to do a manual therapy technique and what they aim to achieve during their consultation.
Who may benefit from seeing an Osteopath in the community?
Osteopaths are trained to assess and treat people of all demography with various presentations. Many people are unaware that the service can be provided in the community. Some short scenarios examples have therefore been prepared to give some ideas of what conditions may benefit from seeing an Osteopath.
Recurrent injury of unknown cause
A patient has tennis elbow or a suspicion of tennis elbow. However, he has never played tennis or had no recent trauma. The injury keeps on coming back despite taking medications or making some lifestyle changes.
Pain with no known underlying pathology
Pain is suddenly felt over the right knee. The pain is now present every day and impacts the patient’s ability to perform daily tasks. An X-ray has been performed and revealed no internal damage or pathology.
Mobility impairment that is generally non-traumatic
A patient is having a gradual decline in mobility. There have been no trauma or surgery to the legs. They have a known circulation problem and they feel weak.
A complex case where many allied health avenues were tried and had no significant change or result
A patient has been suffering from chest pain for more than 10 years. They have a long list of medical history. The patient has seen GPs, specialists, physiotherapist, psychologist to name a few. Medication administration lead to various side effects and therefore chose to stop them.
Patients that are seeking more passive treatment
A patient is very sensitive to touch and any manual treatment technique used in the past caused great pain. They also want to be involved in a treatment that would help in relaxation.
Bec Rose, one of our physio’s and an experienced horse-woman, has spent the last year planning her solo horse trek along the Bicentennial National Trail, which spans the east coast of Australia from far north Queensland to Melbourne in her quest to help raise cancer research funds.
Empower Healthcare is a proud sponsor of Bec’s incredible trek, and we will be sharing her preparations leading up and during the adventure in a special ‘Big Horse Trek’ series. In this blog, we reveal why Bec has taken on this massive personal challenge and her fundraising goal
Bec’s Story
Bec’s decision to take on this personal challenge originated during recovery from spinal surgery in July 2018. “While recuperating, I wrote what I considered to be a bastardised form of a Bucket List and “Ride the entire Bicentennial National Trail” that ended up on there as a ’Pie in the sky’ thing to do.”
However, from that day on, the seed had been planted and Bec became even more determined and committed to taking on what is considered to be a challenging and gruelling journey. The Bicentennial National Trail, also referred to as ‘the BNT’ covers 5,330km and follows the Great Dividing Range and the Eastern Escarpment of Australia, offering self-reliant distance trekkers a uniquely Australian adventure with spectacular scenery.
Nonetheless, the BNT is not to be taken lightly and provides access through some of Australia’s wildest, most inaccessible country. Significant preparation, experience, and fitness is paramount to a successful expedition. It is anticipated to take around 12 months with pack horses.
“After 10 years of crap health, I decided I wanted to do something that I would consider important in my life. I was searching for meaning and purpose. After losing my dad to cancer when I was just 13 years old, it was clear to me that it was my time to achieve something for myself and get involved in raising money to vanquish cancer.”
Bec then joined forces with the charity group Love Your Sister to try to raise her goal of $53,330 for cancer research. “I have followed the Love Your Sister charity since it began and I love and respect the work they do in raising money for cancer research, so it was a no-brainer for me to partner with them.
For the last year, I have been attempting to raise money on two fronts;
Sponsors & Funding to prepare for the trek; to purchase appropriate clothing, equipment, and food for myself and the horses along the way, along with paying for training and other expenses that come with horses (vet bills, vaccinations, etc.).
Fundraiser donations; contributions for cancer research through the Love Your Sister charity.
I am on a mission to reach out to the general public and raise funds to prevent, diagnose, or treat cancer.
Overview of Cancer in Australia
Cancer is a major cause of illness in Australia—there are over 1 million people alive in Australia who are either living with or have lived with cancer. Around 30 years ago, about 5 in 10 people survived for at least 5 years after their cancer diagnosis; more recent figures are closer to 7 in 10 people surviving at least 5 years.
Understanding and avoiding the risk factors associated with cancer can help to reduce the chance of getting cancer, while cancer screening programs increase the likelihood of detecting cancer early, enabling better outcomes from treatments. Improvements in treatments and care are also important contributors to improvements in survival.
Australian Cancer Statistics
An estimated 145,000 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in Australia this year
On average, an estimated 396 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed each day in Australia.
Cancer is a leading cause of death in Australia – almost 50,000 deaths from cancer are estimated for 2019.
1 in 2 Australian men and women will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85
Breast cancer is estimated to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in 2019, followed by prostate cancer
Support Bec in her amazing journey. Donate to improve cancer patient outcomes, find new medicines and medications, improve treatment options, and survival rates. Click below to donate.
Are you a commercial business that would like to support Bec in her adventure?
Bec is looking to obtain further commercial funding and welcomes discussing partnership arrangements in areas such as:
Insurance
Personal loan (interest-free/ delayed interest)
Horse feed for along the trail
Money to purchase specialised equipment, support veterinary costs, and other horse training-related costs that need to be done prior to departure
If you’re interested, please contact Bec by email (bighorsetrek@gmail.com) with your contact details so she can call you to discuss opportunities.
You can find out more about Bec’s story and Love Your Sister’s mission by visiting her website.
You can also follow Bec’s journey through her Big Horse Trek social pages
Empower Healthcare are inspired by Bec and her developing story, and we’re thrilled to be able to lend a small hand by financially assisting Bec in preparation for the trek. We intend to spread the word and share her incredible adventure and story with monthly blogs and social posts.
Our friendly support team to get started on (03) 9583 1364
