The Rural Health Team aims to support and liaise with the person receiving the service and their carers, family and community-based programs, to ensure that services are delivered in a way that suits the individual needs of the person. The service is part of Bendigo Health's Allied Health team.

Referrals are welcome from any source, including self-referral. Referrals for allied health services sometimes require prioritising. People whose disability places them in a vulnerable situation or who are at risk have highest priority.

Allied Health services include:

• Dietetics
  Everyone needs good nutrition to enhance health and wellbeing. The dietitian can help people make decisions about food, taking into account needs and taste preferences.
• Occupational Therapy
  The occupational therapist can help improve a client's independence and safety with daily activities both at home and in the community. The techniques and equipment used are specialised to suit individual needs and may include home modifications.
• Physiotherapy
  Physiotherapy deals with a range of movement disorders. The physiotherapist can provide a personalised program aimed at achieving maximum comfort, mobility and independence.
• Podiatry
  The podiatrist provides treatment, advice and education to help resolve or prevent foot problems in people with specific medical conditions.
• Speech Pathology
  The speech pathologist will be able to assist those who have communication or swallowing difficulties as a result of stroke, disease, hearing loss and/or injury. 
  

Fees: 

$20.00 registration fee applies to people receiving allied health treatment from the team.
The podiatrist charges a nominal fee for subsequent appointments.

Regional Communication Service:

A speech pathologist is able to offer information, training and services to the community with the aim of helping people with communication difficulties, so they can interact with and participate more fully in their local communities. The service covers the shires of Greater Bendigo, Loddon, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Mt Alexander and Macedon Ranges.

Contact the Rural Health Team for further information.

Fitness for Older Adults Program (FOAP):

The Rural Health Team regionally co-ordinates exercise groups for older adults in a number of towns. The purpose of the groups is to reduce the risk of falls, improve balance, general fitness levels and overall health and wellbeing.

The exercise groups are especially designed for men and women over the age of 55.

Classes include a choice of 'Gentle Music to Exercise' groups or 'Strength Training' classes. Classes are conducted by qualified VICFIT Instructors. Physiotherapists regularly visit and provide advice. The classes are an hour long and are held in a range of community venues. There is a nominal cost per class. For further enquries call the Rural Health Team.