Meet Germaine – Physiotherapist, Doncaster Rehabilitation Services
- On 06/09/2021
How long have you been a physiotherapist for?
For 13 years now, working across some of Melbourne’s major public hospitals and community health organisations. In particular, my work as a physiotherapist with the team at MannaCare for the last five years has been a wonderful experience.
What made you decide to become a physiotherapist?
My desire grew from an early passion to work in healthcare, where I could help a person regain their independence through physical rehabilitation but most of all, support them to achieve the things they want to do and enjoy their life after they have had an injury or have had to manage various health issues. Time flies when you enjoy work!
Best part of being physiotherapist?
The best part of my role is the time spent with all my clients. It is humbling and rewarding to be able to build that relationship with a client as a physiotherapist. Every client is different and sometimes, I feel I learn so much from a client, more than what I can teach them. Many of our clients at MannaCare come with a wealth of life experience and it is special to be a part of their journey.
Experience and Expertise
I am experienced in working with clients who have been through cancer. I also enjoy working with clients who are managing multiple chronic health conditions, particularly at a later stage in their lives. Over the last three years, MannaCare established POWER (Program for Oncology Wellness and Exercise Rehabilitation) which has made exercise and being physically active during cancer a lot more accessible for individuals in our local community.
How have physiotherapists adapted during COVID-19?
Since the first lockdown in March 2020, physios have adapted their exercise sessions to run online via telehealth so that we can still keep connected with our clients to maintain their physical and emotional wellbeing during these times. We are also continuing to run online wellness sessions. I really look forward to each Monday morning when I can see all my clients’ faces and smiles during this time.