Falls and Balance Clinic
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Our Falls and Balance Clinic has a team of health professionals with expertise in balance and mobility problems for older people.
After a detailed assessment the team will identify the main factors causing unsteadiness or falls, develop a management plan and provide information and support.
The staff in the clinic will work with you, your carers and other health service providers and refer you to a physiotherapy or exercise group, provide information on how to make your home safer and simplify medication requirements. They may also offer counselling and other management strategies to help you maintain dignity, confidence and independence.
What we do
An initial assessment is divided into two visits. These are usually two weeks apart. Both visits will take about two hours. On your first visit you will be seen by a specialist doctor and a podiatrist. On your second visit you will be seen by a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, nurse and sometimes a psychologist.
We may organise a follow-up appointment about six weeks and again about six months later. We will be interested to know how your balance has been over that time and we will be happy to discuss any new concerns.
Who can use our services
Anyone who experiences falls or balance related problems. We generally see people who live in the local city council areas of Melbourne, Moreland and Hume but may accept referrals from other areas after discussion.
How to access this service
Hospital staff may discuss your eligibility for this service during your visit. Your GP will fax your referral to the hospital.
Once we receive the referral, we will contact you.
If there is a waiting list, we will advise you what to do.
What to bring
Every time you come to hospital
Every time you come to hospital for a test, day procedure, surgery or treatment, you should bring:
- Medicare card
- Health Care card (if you have one)
- Concession card (if you have one)
- Adverse drug alert card (if you have one)
- Medications you are currently taking, including any that you have bought without a prescription
- X-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results you have which are related to your procedure
- Private health insurance card (if you want to use it)
- Aids (glasses, hearing aid, walking frame)
For a clinic appointment
If you come for a clinic appointment, you should also bring:
- Your appointment book
- Your appointment letter
- Any special items listed on your letter
In a medical emergency, call 000. If you are feeling unwell, see your local GP or go to your local hospital Emergency department for help.