Health Professionals Information
Lymphoedema
Details of Service
Lymphoedema is a swelling caused by the failure of the lymphatic system to remove a normal accumulation of protein and fluid from body tissues.
Swelling of arm, leg, torso and head and neck will be assessed with a holistic approach. Clients should bring a list of their medical conditions and medications to the assessment appointment.
Support & education provided to treat lymphoedema using complex decongestive therapy. This includes Skin care, Exercise, lymphatic drainage (taught but not provided regularly), compression garment prescriptions.
Client’s at risk of developing Lymphoedema can attend an individual education session on ways to help prevent developing the condition.
If compression garments are recommended they are purchased by the client. Eligible clients can be assisted to obtain funding through the Lymphoedema Compression Garment Scheme managed by the State Wide Equipment Scheme.
The Lymphoedema Clinic is staffed by a Division 1 Registered Nurse who has undergone specialist Lymphoedema Therapy training (Level 1 & Level 2).
Group Exercise classes are held on Friday afternoons during school terms. The class involves mainly chair based exercises to improve lymphatic function. They include 45 mins of exercise and 30 minutes of education on a topic related to lymphoedema.
Triage of Referrals
Triage will occur based on the clinical information provided on the referral.
Current Session Times and Locations
Locations: Melton Health and Community Services (Green Building)
Hours of Operation: Tuesday, Friday and Alternate Wednesdays 9am - 4:30pm
Important Information
Please note this service does not prescribe compression therapy for non-lymphoedema conditions. (Vascular conditions or lipoedema).
Compression therapy for non-lymphoedema cases (ie Varicose Veins and lipodema) should be referred to an orthotist.
Must have a diagnosis of Lymphoedema or requiring support for diagnosis.
No requirement to go through My Aged Care for Lymphoedema Services.
Referrals and Further Information
No requirement to go through My Aged Care for Lymphoedema Services.
For Further information, please call the Referral and Appointment Service on 03 9747 7609.
Referrals can be accepted by fax (03 9746 0668) or via Connecting Care.
