How long have you been a Physiotherapist for?

I’ve been a physiotherapist for 19 years and I have worked in various settings including hospital wards, rehabilitation and in the community. During my career, I have also completed a Master in Public Health and Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management from Monash University.

Why did you want to become a Physiotherapist?

I was inspired to help people. I feel privileged to be able to share in a client’s journey of recovery.

How long have you been at MannaCare?

I’ve been at MannaCare for six years as the Team Leader of Doncaster Rehabilitation Services.

What do you enjoy the most in your role as a Physiotherapist?

The most enjoyable aspect of working as a physiotherapist is the trusted partnership I form with the client to work toward their goal. I enjoy the problem solving and clinical reasoning that is required to deliver effective evidence-based treatment to the client. I also value the expertise of our Allied Health colleagues and a multidisciplinary approach to the care of a client.

What are your areas of expertise or interests?

My area of expertise is gerontology which is the study of older people. A Physiotherapist working in gerontology needs to be proficient in the assessment and treatment of many health conditions and have a holistic approach to the care of older people.

I also have a keen interest in oncology and I am proud to have implemented MannaCare’s oncology service POWER. I am also passionate about the emotional and social wellbeing of older people and have researched and published in the area of social isolation in older people.

How have Physiotherapists adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The physiotherapy workforce across various sectors have adapted extremely well. This pandemic has shown how important physiotherapists are as part of the Healthcare Team. At MannaCare, the physiotherapists have been flexible and resilient to the ever-changing situation of COVID-19. I am so proud to lead a team of dedicated and skilled physiotherapists.