Our Dietitians assess and assist patients to meet their nutritional needs before, during and after treatment. They provide appropriate nutritional advice to help manage the treatment side effects that often impact on a person’s ability to eat. This may include things like dry mouth, nausea, fatigue and inflammation of the mouth.

Who should see a Dietitian?

People undergoing treatment for cancer often face large disruptions to their daily routine and their enjoyment of food. Finding ways to manage diet and food is an important part of managing the side effects of treatment. Side effects such as fatigue can be significantly improved with input from a dietitian.

There are some types of cancer that Dietetics input is particularly recommended for including:

• Head & Neck cancers

• Breast cancer

• Prostate cancer

• Pancreatic cancer

• Liver cancer

• Haematological (blood) cancers

If you notice any of the following signs and symptoms you should make an appointment to see a Dietician:

• Unintentional weight loss

• Change in appetite

• Reduced food intake

• Bowel changes (frequency or consistency)

• Loss of interest in food

• Difficulty eating due to mouth sores or dry mouth

All Lift Dietitians are Accredited Practising Dietitians

Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are university-qualified professionals that undertake ongoing training and education programs to ensure that they are your most up-to-date and credible source of nutrition information. They translate scientific health and nutrition information into practical advice, and practise in line with Dietitians Australia Professional Standards.

Referrals

You can come and see our Dietitian with or without a referral. It is a good idea to visit your GP to discuss coming to a Dietitian and to find out if you are eligible for a Chronic Diseases Management Plan. This is a Medicare initiative and will allow you to receive a rebate at your appointments.

Making an appointment

To make an appointment please call Lift on (08) 7231 8000. In most cases we will be able to provide you an appointment within 1-2 weeks.

Fees

Initial Visit: $150

Subsequent Visit: $100

Rebates

A rebate of $58.30 from Medicare will apply if if you have an Enhanced Primary Care Plan from your GP
Alternatively, you may be able to claim through your private health insurer (under your extras cover).

Please ask the Lift staff for more details if you are unsure of what your out of pocket cost will be.