At Strong & Stable we are proud to align ourselves with some of Melbourne’s leading Oncologists to assist in providing a comprehensive cancer care approach for clients at all stages of the cancer journey.
Oncology Rehabilitation
EXERCISE & CANCER
In recent years ground breaking research has shown the benefits of completing a tailored exercise program during all phases of treatment and cancer types to be;
- A reduction in risk of cancer-specific mortality
- A reduction in the of risk of recurrence
- Increased tolerance to treatments (chemotherapy & radiotherapy) due to a reduction in side effects such as
- Fatigue
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Weight loss or gain
In May 2018 the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia released it’s position statement making the following recommendations:
1.“All people with cancer should avoid inactivity and return to normal daily activities as soon as possible following diagnosis (i.e. be as physically active as current abilities and conditions allow.
2.All people with cancer should progress towards, and once achieved, maintain participation in:
a.At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise (e.g. walking, jogging, cycling, swimming) each week; and
b. Two to three resistance exercise (i.e. lifting weights) sessions each week which involving moderate-to vigorous-intensity exercises targeting the major muscle groups
3. Exercise recommendations should be tailored to the individual’s abilities noting that specific exercise programming adaptations may be required for people with cancer based on disease and treatment- related adverse effects, anticipated disease trajectory and their health status.
4. Accredited Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists are the most appropriate health professionals to prescribe and deliver exercise programs to people with cancer.
5. All health professionals involved in the care of people with cancer have an important role in promoting these recommendations.” (COSA, 2018)
WHAT IS AN ACCREDITED EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST?
An Accredited Exercise Physiologist is a university trained Allied Health Professional, who undertakes a minimum of 4.5 years of study. An Exercise Physiologist is the most qualified health professional to prescribe graded exercise therapy and lifestyle interventions for persons at risk of developing, or with existing chronic and complex medical conditions and injuries.
At Strong & Stable our Exercise Physiologists are experienced in treating a wide range of cancer types and at varying treatment stages and accept both private and Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) referrals.
HOW CAN EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY HELP ME?
An Exercise Physiologist can assess, design and implement an individually tailored exercise program to suit your needs, taking into consideration your current or past oncology treatment regime (chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery) and current health status. Following an appointment you can expect to have an individually tailored plan to complete at the location of your choice (i.e. home, gym etc).
WHEN SHOULD I SEE AN EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST?
In line with the research Strong & Stable highly recommends an initial consultation as soon as possible following a diagnosis to assess, design and implement a suitable tailored exercise program.
For clients who may have finished treatment and are still experiencing side effects such as weight gain or loss, fatigue, peripheral neuropathy and general muscle pain and weakness, starting an individual exercise program as soon as possible can help reduce the ongoing side effects and accelerate your return to normality following the completion of treatment.
MEDICARE AND EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY
Under the Enhanced Primary Care Program (EPC), also known as Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM), clients with an oncology diagnosis are eligible for up to five Medicare rebated sessions per calendar year. A rebate of $53.80 is available per session, please note a referral is required from your GP to access this rebate.
PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE AND EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY
A number of private health insurance providers offer rebates for Exercise Physiology services. For the exact rebate amount please contact your health fund.
COSTS
- Initial Assessment (60 mins) $75
- Review (60 mins) $70
- Review (30 mins) $40
- Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) sessions $62.95, Medicare rebate $53.80