Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, a referral is NOT required. Simply contact us to arrange your appointment of ask your support coordinator to contact you on your behalf.
How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
In most cases you will be offered an initial appointment within two weeks.
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Are you an NDIS provider?
Orange Speech Therapy are NDIS providers for self managed and plan managed clients. Unfortunately we can not see NDIA managed clients.
What are the signs of swallowing difficulties?
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A person may have dysphagia if they show signs and symptoms such as:
• difficult, painful chewing or swallowing
• a feeling that food or drink gets stuck in their throat or goes down the wrong way
• coughing, choking, or frequent throat clearing during or after swallowing
• having long mealtimes e.g. finishing a meal takes more than 30 minutes
• becoming short of breath when eating and drinking
• avoiding some foods because they are hard to swallow
• regurgitation of undigested food
• difficulty controlling food or liquid in their mouth
• drooling
• having a hoarse or gurgly voice
• having a dry mouth
• poor oral hygiene
• frequent heartburn
• unexpected weight loss
• frequent respiratory infections
What is a mealtime management plan?
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Mealtime management plans are documents created by Speech Pathologists following a comprehensive assessment of a persons swallowing skills and mealtime behaviours.
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Plans may include any or all of the following:
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Texture and fluid recommendations
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Seating positions
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Guidelines around supervisions and how to support a client during mealtimes
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Strategies for the client to use to ensure safety during mealtimes
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Recommendations for adaptive cutlery
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Recommendations regarding size or amount of fluids or food that can be taken at one time
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Information regarding oral hygiene practices
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Suggested review date or annual review date (often plans need to be reviewed periodically)
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How a client will communicate his/her needs during meals
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Clients likes of dislikes during meals
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