Below is a summary of our most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What is the difference between a general dietitian and one that specialises in paediatrics or disability services?
A specialised dietitian can do everything a general dietitian does, plus more. They have extensive experience working with people who might have rare conditions, disability or syndromes. They have skills in working with families and carers as well as their patient. They have a strong understanding of developmental stages and the importance of good nutrition particularly during the early years of life
What do I need in my NDIS Plan to access a dietitian?
You can see a dietitian when you have goals to improve your health, wellbeing, independence and daily life. NDIS Funding falls under Improved Daily Living Skills or Improved Health and Wellbeing categories.
Do you see patients online (e.g. Telehealth)?
Absolutely! We support patients via Telehealth. This is a great option for those living in regional and/or remote areas.
Do you see patients out-of-office-hours?
We support busy families via Telehealth outside of standard business hours. Contact us directly to inquiry about this service.
We also have face-to-face clinic at our North Strathfield Clinic on Saturdays. Contact The Paediatric Specialist to inquire about this service
Do you see adults?
No. We specialise in paediatric nutrition and supporting infants, children, teens and their families.
Do I need a referral?
A referral is not necessary for accessing dietitian services.
How do I access Medicare Rebates?
To be eligible for Medicare Rebates under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan a referral from a General Practitioner is required. See Medicare website for further information about eligibility and rebates. A copy of CDM Plan must be presented at the time of first consultation.
Can I access Health Fund Rebates?
Yes.
Depending on your level of cover and Health Insurance agency you may be eligible for a Rebate for individual dietetic consultations. Contact your fund directly to find-out about eligibility.
Who can see a dietitian?
Anyone can see a dietitian. Some reasons you might see a dietitian include:
- Your child eats a limited range of food or has difficulties accepting new foods
- You feel that your child is a “fussy eater” and mealtimes can be stressful
- You require a tube feeding.
- There are concerns about your child’s weight. Either underweight or overweight.
- Your child has gastrointestinal complaints such as constipation or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- You or someone you care for has difficulties with eating; oral motor, food aversions or dysphagia.
- Coeliac disease has been diagnosed.
- A food allergy has been diagnosis.
What does a dietitian do?
A dietitian has a strong medical understanding of the relationship between health and nutrition. A dietitian assesses an individual’s nutrition requirement and recommends practical ways to help people to make food choices for their needs. A dietitian works with you to ensure that dietary intake is nutritionally adequate giving you “everything you need and nothing you don’t”. The range of things a dietitian can help with is vast and can include working with families to help mealtimes be more enjoyable, assisting people who require tube feeding and helping people with wounds that are slow to heal.
What should I bring to an appointment?
Unless arranged otherwise, please bring your child to your appointment. Anyone accessing CDM rebate must attend in person.
If available, please bring your child’s “Blue Book”, any recent blood tests and any copies of relevant doctors or allied health professional assessments.
Do you conduct group training sessions?
Yes. Education and training programs can be designed to specifically meet your staff or students needs. Sessions can be conducted at a time and location that is convenient to you. Contact us directly for more information about group training sessions.