Accessing physiotherapy and dietetics support has now become easier, with The Healthy Communities Foundation Australia launching new virtual allied health services to connect people with physiotherapist Jessica Lynch and dietitian Sophie Cann.
The nationwide service is designed to remove longstanding barriers around distance, transport, and limited local availability, which continue to affect rural and regional communities.
Many patients in the New England are familiar with telehealth, with Hunter New England Health prioritising virtual services to reduce patient travel in a system highly concentrated in Newcastle. While not intended to replace in-person care, telehealth is particularly helpful for people with mobility issues and those living in remote areas.
THCFA Chief Executive Richard Cheney said virtual appointments would make a meaningful difference for people who struggle to attend appointments in person.
“There are many reasons why someone might not be able to access in-person services, including distance, caring responsibilities, and mobility issues,” Mr Cheney said.
He added that the convenience of virtual delivery was likely to appeal to many city-based patients as well.
“The services will be appealing for people in rural and remote areas where there’s often a shortage of Allied Health Professionals, but we also expect many people in metro areas to access the services – a virtual appointment can be easier to fit into your working day or around caring responsibilities,” he said.
Mr Cheney said one of the advantages of virtual physiotherapy was the way it supports patients to stay consistent with their rehabilitation.
“Successful physiotherapy relies on consistent rehabilitation exercises. Virtual delivery naturally reinforces that behaviour. Without relying on direct manual therapy, patients engage more actively in their program and develop the confidence to continue their exercises independently – which ultimately leads to stronger, longer-term results.”
Physiotherapist Jessica Lynch brings experience across paediatric physiotherapy, tendinopathies, and pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, including support for hip and knee replacements and ACL surgeries. She also works with patients recovering from sporting injuries.
“Beyond the treatment room, I enjoy mentoring students and new graduates, developing professional training programs, and contributing to projects that improve the quality and reach of physiotherapy services nationwide. My goal is simple: to help people move better, feel stronger, and live healthier lives,” Jessica said.
Dietitian Sophie Cann shares the same commitment to accessible care, offering evidence-based and culturally appropriate nutrition support. Her work includes weight management, malnutrition, female health, paediatrics, allergy management and autoimmune conditions.
“I have a particular interest in helping individuals living with chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease,” Sophie said.
“I find it incredibly rewarding to see how personalised dietary and lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference in improving health outcomes and overall wellbeing. My approach is practical, compassionate, and sustainable – focused on helping you achieve your health goals and maintain them for the long term.”
Patients with a Medicare Chronic Disease Management plan can access reduced-cost appointments, with private appointments also available. Bookings can be made online, with further information available through THCFA.
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