| Allied Health and Associates |
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Allied Health Professionals are a collection of specialized clinicians who can work with your treating doctor and cancer nurse. Allied Health Professionals form a very important part of cancer treatment, recovery and recuperation. Many Allied Health Services will be available through your treating hospital. Modern cancer services aim to provide a multidisciplinary approach to your care, which means that all facets of your treatment will be considered and addressed. For instance, your treatment may include referral to a social worker so that you can talk openly about the social/psychological impact of your diagnosis. Or you may need a dietitian consultation to assist you in planning your meals so that you receive the correct nutrition during chemotherapy. There may be costs associated with consulting an Allied Health Professional, please check with the service provider. You will find information about funding assistance in the Financial subcategory. Allied Health and Associates is a collection of the following sub-categories:
Community Health Services are non-profit, community based organizations which provide a variety of health and support services to anyone with a need. There may be charges for these services but these are based on a client's ability to pay. Sometimes cancer patients have existing health conditions such as diabetes. During cancer treatment it is important for patients to be extra vigilant in the management of their diabetes. Diabetes practitioners, clinics and education sessions are available in the community, providing assistance and information to those with diabetes. Lymphoedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid. This fluid retention results in swelling and occurs when there is insufficient drainage from a particular part of the body. Some cancer treatments such as lymph node dissection, surgery and/or radiation therapy can cause Lymphoedema due to damage or removal of lympathic drainage mechanisms. Lymphoedema most often occurs after treatment for breast cancer. It may also occur after treatment for prostate, colon and testicular cancers where lymph nodes have been removed or damaged. In many cancer patients this condition does not develop until months or even years after treatment has finished. It is therefore advisable that a person who has had treatment which involves the lymph nodes be aware of lymphoedema and pay attention to its prevention. There are a range of exercises and other measures which can be used to minimize the impact of lymphoedema. Your hospital Physiotherapist or Specialist Cancer Nurse will be able to assist with additional information or referral if necessary. In some areas Lymphoedema Management programs and specially trained Lymphoedema clinicians are available to assist in the management of the condition. It is often difficult to eat well when you don’t feel like shopping or cooking, however good nutrition is very important during cancer treatment. Some side effects of treatment can make things even more difficult. Nutritionists and Dietiticians can be very important participants in your care. They can assist you to:
The Cancer Council Victoria (contact 13 11 20) produces a booklet which can also be downloaded from their website: Nutrition & Exercise: for people with cancer, their family and friends Occupational Therapists (OTs) assess and treat people who, because of illness, injury or circumstance, are limited in their ability to undertake the activities of everyday life. They assist people to regain or maintain independence in their everyday lives which enhances health and wellbeing. Occupational Therapists provide assistance in the following ways:
You will find information about home and living aids in the Home and Living Aids subcategory. Osteopaths and Chiropractors assess, diagnose and treat people with movement problems. They aim to assist people to regain as much movement and physical independence as possible. They also help people avoid injuries and maintain a fit, healthy body. When necessary, Osteopaths and Chiropractors will consult with a client's doctor to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes. For further information on:
A Physiotherapist can help you overcome some of the physical effects of surgery. As a result of surgery your mobility may be affected, especially if scar tissue develops or you overprotect your body during movement. There is usually a Physiotherapist available in your treating hospital who can provide advice about exercise to help maintain fitness and prevent complications. A Social Worker is a wealth of information regarding the supportive care options in your area. If you have particular issues such as financial, personal, family or employment, a Social Worker may be able to assist you with them. There is usually a Social Worker available in your treating hospital. Speech Pathology deals with the rehabilitation of those with speech production, vocal production, swallowing difficulties and language needs. Such treatment may be necessary in the care of those living with certain cancers. Stomal Therapy deals with the rehabilitation of those who are about to, or have already undergone treatment resulting in temporary or permanent faecal or urinary diversion. |
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| Last Updated ( Sunday, 10 August 2008 07:58 ) |
