Allied Health
As part of our holistic, team-based approach to healthcare, Banksia Medical Centre provides access to a range of in-house allied health services across our Torquay, Newcomb and Hamlyn Heights clinics. Working alongside our GPs and nurses, allied health professionals play an important role in assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term health management.
By offering allied health services on site, we support coordinated care in a familiar clinical environment, making it easier for patients to receive the support they need.
Our Allied Health Services
Banksia Medical Centre currently offers allied health services in podiatry, dietetics, and psychology. Availability of these services may vary depending on the clinic location and practitioner schedules.
Podiatry
Our podiatry service supports people with foot, ankle, and lower-limb conditions, using evidence-based, surgical and non-surgical approaches where appropriate.
Podiatrists work with patients to address pain, improve mobility, prevent complications, and support long-term foot health.
Conditions commonly managed include:
- Foot and ankle pain or deformities
- Arthritis and joint-related conditions
- Diabetic foot and ankle concerns
- Heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and spurs
- Ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, and skin conditions
- Sports injuries, sprains, tendon strains, and ligament tears
- Paediatric foot and ankle conditions
- Wounds, infections, and pressure-related issues
Availability:
Podiatry services are available at two locations.
Maypod, led by podiatrist Zack May, consults at our Newcomb Clinic every Friday. To book an appointment, please call (03) 5248 1299.
Pure Podiatry consults at our Hamlyn Heights Clinic every Tuesday. To schedule an appointment, please call (03) 5223 2840.
Dietetics
Our Accredited Practising Dietitians provide personalised, evidence-based nutrition support as part of multidisciplinary care teams.
Dietitians assess and support a wide range of nutrition-related concerns, including:
- Swallowing, chewing, and drinking difficulties
- Feeding challenges and mealtime difficulties
- Bowel health concerns, including constipation, diarrhoea, and coeliac disease
- Food allergies and intolerances
- Chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- Pressure injury prevention and management
- General dietary guidance across life stages
Dietetics services may support patients living with disability, chronic illness, or complex nutritional needs.
Availability:
Dietitian Monica Caixinha is available at the Hamlyn Heights clinic one Friday a month.
Please call (03) 5277 0907 to book an appointment.
Psychology
Our psychology service supports mental health and emotional wellbeing for adolescents and adults, delivered by experienced registered and clinical psychologists.
Psychology services at Banksia Medical Centre assist with a range of concerns, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Stress and burnout
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress
- Grief and loss
- Adjustment and life transitions
- Chronic pain and mind–body health
Our psychologists
- Holly McVerry, Psychologist (MA Counselling Psych)
- Dr Esme Dark, Clinical Psychologist (PhD, PsyBA)
Psychology services are available at the Torquay and Hamlyn Heights clinics, with appointment availability varying by practitioner. A referral is required; please email it to reception for triage before booking at the Torquay clinic, or call 0419 876 387 (Graeme Castle Psychology) to arrange an appointment at Hamlyn Heights.
Diabetes Education & Support
Banksia Medical Centre provides access to diabetes education services supporting patients living with diabetes and other chronic metabolic conditions.
Our Accredited Diabetes Educator works collaboratively with patients and their healthcare team to support practical, evidence-based diabetes management and long-term health planning.
Support may include:
- Diabetes education and self-management support
- Blood glucose monitoring guidance
- Lifestyle and nutrition education
- Medication and insulin support
- Preventative health strategies
- Chronic disease management support
Availability:
Ana Martin provides onsite diabetes education services at our Hamlyn Heights clinic on Wednesdays and Thursdays; please call (03) 5277 0907 to schedule an appointment.
In-Home Health Assessments for Older Adults (Hamlyn Heights Patients Only)
Banksia Medical Centre provides in-home Annual Health Assessments for eligible patients aged 75 years and over.
These home visit assessments support older adults living in the community by helping identify health concerns early, supporting independence, and assisting with ongoing care planning where appropriate.
Assessments may include:
- General health and wellbeing review
- Mobility and falls risk assessment
- Medication and care support review
- Home safety considerations
- Preventative health planning
Kaylee provides home visit services for eligible patients within the community.
For appointments or eligibility enquiries, please contact reception (03) 5277 0907.
Allied Health FAQs
1. Do I need a referral to see an allied health professional?
Some services require a GP referral, especially if you wish to access Medicare rebates. Reception can advise what is needed.
2. Can my GP coordinate allied health care?
Yes. Your GP can prepare a Chronic Disease Management Plan and refer you to eligible allied health providers.
3. Are allied health services available at all clinics?
Availability varies by service and clinic. Please check individual service details or contact reception.
4. Can I see allied health providers at Banksia if I am a new patient?
Yes. New patients are welcome, subject to referral requirements and practitioner availability.