Banksia Medical Centre

Performing a breast self-exam (BSE) is a simple way to familiarise yourself with your breasts and detect any changes. Swipe through for a step-by-step guide.

Remember, a self-exam is not a diagnostic tool, but it helps you notice changes. If you find something unusual, don’t panic—most lumps aren’t cancerous, but have any changes evaluated by a healthcare professional. Regular clinical exams and mammograms, as recommended by your healthcare provider, are also key for early detection.

Book an appointment today! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Discover how hand therapy can help improve hand function and aid in your recovery. Know what to expect and how it can make a difference today.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments or contact us for more info!

Did you know that a healthy workplace can boost productivity and morale? Our occupational health assessments are designed to identify potential risks and ensure your team stays safe and healthy.

From ergonomic evaluations to health screenings, we offer a variety of services tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to create a safer, more productive environment for everyone.

Want to learn more about how we can help your workplace? Reach out to us today, and let's chat about the best solutions for your team! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Back pain can be challenging, and while physiotherapy can be beneficial, it's important to start by consulting your GP. Your GP can assess your condition and guide you on the best course of action, including whether physiotherapy might be right for you.

Want to know more about how your GP can help? Reach out to book a consultation and start your journey towards relief.

Book online: https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Every day is the right day to ask, "R U OK?"

Life is full of ups and downs, and regular, meaningful conversations can make a big difference. Build trust, show you care, and be there for your loved ones, friends, and colleagues.

Let's not wait for R U OK? Day—reach out any day. A simple conversation could change a person's life.

Booking a home visit is easy and convenient! Just follow these simple steps:

1. Gather Your Information: Have your address, contact details, and any relevant medical history ready.

2. Choose Your Appointment Date: Select a date and time that works best for you from our available slots.

3. Book Your Visit: Go to the Banksia Medical Centre website, click on “Book Online,” and then choose “Dr Natasha Bookings” to view her availability. You can also reach out to us via phone or visit our clinic to schedule your appointment.

4. What to Expect: Our team will arrive on time and fully prepared to provide the care you need in the comfort of your home.

We’re here to make healthcare accessible and hassle-free for you!

📞 Call us at 52481299

🌐 Book online: https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/our-team/dr-natasha-nogueira/

Meet Dr Chris Chau!

Dr Chris Chau is a board-certified Family Medicine practitioner with extensive experience in acute care, including adult, geriatric, and emergency medicine. He specialises in preventive and family medicine, focusing on adolescent, maternal & child, and elderly health.

With postgraduate diplomas in child and adolescent health and family medicine, and a Masters in Public Health from the US, Dr Chau is also a fellow of public health medicine in the UK. His expertise spans communicable and chronic disease management, and he’s a published author on drugs, depression, and hypertension.

Dr Chau is passionate about community medicine and is an accredited Positive Parenting Program provider for teens. You can see him in Newcomb Monday-Thursday and Torquay on Fridays.

Schedule an appointment to benefit from Dr Chau’s comprehensive and compassionate care! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/our-team/dr-chris-chau/

Our July and August highlights!

We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and the impact we’ve had over the past two months. From community events to personal and professional growth, these months have been full of meaningful milestones. We're excited for the journey ahead!

Thank you for being an essential part of our success. ❤️

September is dedicated to raising awareness about gynaecological cancers. Did you know every 2 hours, an Australian woman is diagnosed with one of these cancers? They affect the v***a, va**na, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and placenta.

The most common type is uterine cancer, followed by ovarian cancer, known as the silent killer due to its lack of early symptoms. With a 1 in 20 lifetime risk for women and only a 68% survival rate, it's crucial to spread awareness and fund research.

Learn the signs, get support, and help us save lives. 💜

Navigating the perimenopause phase of life can be challenging. Hormonal changes can bring about a range of symptoms. Don't go through it alone!

We offer support and treatment options to help you manage hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and other perimenopausal discomforts.

is a great time to prioritise your well-being. Book your appointment today and let's talk about your options. https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Both home visits and telemedicine provide convenient ways to receive healthcare, each with its own distinct advantages. Here's a breakdown to help you decide: Swipe through for more details! ➡️

Our clinic provides a welcoming and supportive environment to meet all your women's health needs. We offer a comprehensive range of services, from routine checkups and skin checks to solutions for menstrual problems, breast examinations, and even mental health guidance.

Our team of experienced professionals listens attentively, educates you on your health, and creates personalised plans to help you achieve optimal well-being.

Together, let's navigate your health journey. Schedule an appointment today! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Experience the future of healthcare with our seamless video conferencing technology! With telehealth services, accessing expert medical care from the comfort of your home is easier than ever. Enjoy the convenience, accessibility, and personalised attention you deserve. Discover the benefits and start your journey toward better health today!

Contact us today! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Strong bodies and wise minds are life's true treasures. Good health keeps us physically capable, while good sense helps us make choices that lead to a fulfilling life.

What are you doing today to cultivate these valuable assets?

Would you like to talk to one of our GPs? Book online today! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Breastfeeding offers a multitude of benefits for both you and your baby! It provides essential nutrients for your little one while promoting emotional bonding and development.

𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐚𝐛𝐲:

🤱 Latch On: Ensure proper positioning and latch for a comfortable and effective feeding experience. A lactation consultant can assist you in ensuring that your baby is nursing correctly.

🤱 Frequent Feedings: Respond to your baby's hunger cues by feeding on demand. This helps regulate your milk supply and ensures your baby receives sufficient nourishment.

🤱 Listen to Your Body: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support milk production. Prioritize rest and self-care to enhance your breastfeeding journey.

🤱 Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for help. Lactation consultants, nurses, and experienced breastfeeding mothers can provide valuable guidance and encouragement.

Remember, breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby. Be patient, trust your instincts, and cherish the special bond you're creating together!

Incision and drainage is a common minor surgery we offer to treat infections by draining pus and alleviating pressure. Here's what to expect:

🩺 Why It's Performed: This procedure is essential for treating abscesses or localised infections, reducing pain, and preventing further complications.

⚕️ During the procedure, a small incision is made to drain the pus, followed by thoroughly cleaning the area to promote healing.

💡 Aftercare Tips: Keep the area clean and follow your doctor's instructions to ensure a swift recovery. Monitor for any signs of infection and schedule a follow-up appointment.

Your health is our priority! Contact us today for more information or to book your consultation: https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Mental Health Care Plans (MHCPs) provide vital support and access to mental health services. Discover how MHCPs work, from eligibility to accessing Medicare rebates.

If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, consult with a GP to explore creating an MHCP. Swipe to read more! ➡️

Meet Alison Henry our Registered Counsellor!

With over 15 years of experience. Alison is a Torquay local who is passionate about supporting her community to regain and maintain wellness in mental health. Alison and her colleague Nicole currently facilitate the Torquay community grief & loss support group.

Alison works with individuals aged 17 and over who are experiencing a variety of mental health and life challenges. Coming with a person-centred approach, she uses strategies from a variety of modalities tailored to fit the individual. She often suggests creative arts therapies to her clients.

The type of clients who may find counselling useful include NDIS clients with psychosocial disabilities, those with chronic illnesses or experiencing somatic symptoms, are going through lifestage changes, or are experiencing grief and loss (bereavement, as well as other losses). In addition, Alison works with general mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

To book an appointment: phone 0411 624 289 or email [email protected].

Ladies, your well-being is your greatest asset! Educating yourself about women's health isn't just about knowledge—it's about taking proactive steps towards a healthier future. Learn how to prioritise preventive care, understand your body's unique needs, and empower yourself with the right information.

Schedule your next appointment today, and let's build a stronger, healthier you! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

For more than 30 years, the health and well-being of the Geelong community have been our top priority at Banksia Medical Centre. Our experienced team of healthcare professionals is here to provide you with exceptional care, from general practice to specialised services.

Visit us at our Torquay and Newcomb locations. Book your appointment online today – we can’t wait to welcome you!

Book now! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Meet Dr Victor Wong – a compassionate General Practitioner dedicated to holistic, patient-centred care. With over 15 years of experience in hospitals and clinics across Australia and Hong Kong, Dr Victor Wong has made a significant impact through his expertise and mentorship of medical students and registrars.

His commitment to serving the community extends beyond his practice. Dr Victor Wong has provided essential healthcare services to the needy in hostels and nursing homes and has served as a medical advisor for charitable organisations. He believes in building long-term relationships with his patients and their families, ensuring they receive continuous and comprehensive care.

When he's not in the clinic, Dr Victor Wong enjoys playing badminton and piano. He looks forward to bringing his passion for healthcare to the Geelong community and making it an even more caring and supportive place.

Dr Victor Wong is available in Newcomb on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

Schedule an appointment today! https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/newcomb/

Access women's health services at Banksia Medical Centre. Our consultations can address a variety of health concerns, including those during adolescence and the teenage years (ages 12–18).

Adolescence and Teenage Years (Ages 12–18):

■ Menstrual irregularities

■ Acne

■ Eating disorders

Our healthcare professionals offer the following:

■ Education on menstrual health and hygiene

■ Acne management plans, including skincare routines and medication if needed.

■ Mental health support and referrals for eating disorders

Always seek professional advice for diagnosis and treatment. https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

We had our Mental Health Study Day on Saturday just gone with groups of psychologists who are passionate and experienced in their fields delivering evidence-based knowledge on:
- Perinatal Mental Health and years beyond [Nurture Geelong] 🤰🏼🤱🏽🫄🏻🤱🏿🧑🏾‍🍼 (https://www.nurturegeelong.com.au)
- EMDR: how it works and how it is delivered [Enhance Wellbeing Counselling and Coaching ]
- ADHD Assessments: purpose and delivery [Wise Psychology https://www.wise-psychology.com ]

We learned so much through our discussions on the day, as did the psychologists about how patients come to seek how and what tools we may have as GPs. Working together and communicating collaboratively for patients are our mutual goals.
It was invigorating! 🙌💚🫶

Thank you for coming and joining us as we continue to explore our growth to provide the best evidence-based care for our community.

This National Stroke Week, let's raise awareness about stroke and the importance of early intervention. Recognising the signs of a stroke can save lives. Remember to think FAST:

𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞: Check their face. Has it drooped on one side?

𝐀𝐫𝐦𝐬: Can they lift both arms?

𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐜𝐡: Is their speech slurred or strange?

𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞: Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 immediately.

Educate yourself and your loved ones on how to spot a stroke and act FAST. Early action can reduce the severity of a stroke and improve results.

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or down? We understand how you feel. At Banksia Medical Centre, we prioritise your mental well-being. Our caring team offers confidential support, tailored treatment plans, and services for all ages.

Talk to us, whether you need a listening ear or a personalised approach to managing stress, anxiety, or depression.

Your mental health matters. Let's work together towards a healthier you.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit our website at https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact or call us today at (03) 5248 1299.

Ladies, prioritise your well-being with our dedicated Women's Health Services! Designed to empower you at every stage of life, we offer comprehensive care from preventive screenings to specialized treatments. Join us on a journey towards optimal health and discover your inner strength.

Book conveniently online: https://www.banksiamedicalcentre.com.au/contact

Menopause is a natural process that typically occurs between 45 and 55, but can happen earlier due to medical conditions. Perimenopause, the period leading up to menopause, involves hormonal changes that cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and irregular periods.

It's important to seek support and treatment. Our healthcare professionals offer personalised holistic treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, including complementary practices, non-hormonal medications, and menopause hormone therapy.

Contact us at (03) 5248 1299 for a consultation to address menopause symptoms and regain your well-being.

Many women experience cramps during their periods, but how do you know if it's just cramps or something more?

Cramps are a common symptom of menstruation caused by the uterus contracting to shed its lining. They typically feel like dull aches or throbbing pains in the lower abdomen and may last for 1-3 days.

Endometriosis pain can be much more severe and disruptive. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, irritation, and intense pain.

Here's how to tell the difference:

➡️ Severity: Endometriosis pain is often much more intense than cramps, sometimes debilitating.

➡️ Timing: Cramps usually occur around your period. Endometriosis pain can occur throughout your cycle, even before or after your period.

➡️ Location: Cramps are felt mostly in the lower abdomen. Endometriosis pain can radiate to the lower back, thighs, and bowel.

➡️ Other symptoms: Endometriosis may cause pain during s*x, bowel movements, or urination. Heavy or irregular bleeding can also be a sign.

If you suspect endometriosis, talk to your doctor! Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage pain and improve your quality of life.

Flu season is around the corner! Don't miss your chance to get vaccinated and protect yourself from getting sick. The flu shot is safe, effective, and the best way to avoid a miserable few days in bed.

Get yours at your local doctor's office or pharmacy or contact us today at (03) 5248 1299!

Last Saturday, BMC celebrated our 9th anniversary and our amazing Dr Jenny organised Geelong First Health Festival as part of our celebration. Gathering the like minded health care professionals in Geelong, we managed to reach out to the general public with information ranging from healthy eating to organic farming, from pelvic pain to mental health, from IVF to Long Covid. The conversation was exciting, informative and invigorating. We thank you for those who have come supported snd contributed. One thing for sure, it will not be our last and we hope our next one will be bigger and better! 😊

https://timesnewsgroup.com.au/geelongtimes/news/inaugural-health-festival-coming-to-geelong/