Physiotherapy clinic launches new Morwell hub

Federation University Australia is boosting access to its virtual physiotherapy clinic with the launch of a second ‘satellite hub’ for people who don’t have video call technology at home.
The hub at Gippsland Multicultural Services (GMS) in Morwell, will provide a private space for community members to access their telehealth appointments with Federation physiotherapy students.
Federation’s student-led Physiotherapy Virtual Care Clinic gives those living with chronic musculoskeletal, neurological or cardiorespiratory health conditions access to free healthcare under the supervision of experienced educators and clinicians.
Since launching in August 2023, the clinic has conducted more than 1500 video call consultations with consumers and enabled 44 students to learn while working with the community.
The launch of the GMS hub follows the success of the first satellite hub at Churchill Neighbourhood Centre in 2024 and is a partnership with the Latrobe Health Assembly.
The Assembly’s Chronic Disease Action Plan 2022-2027 reports that 33.5 per cent of people in Latrobe are living with two or more chronic diseases.
For nearly four decades, GMS has supported diverse local communities including new and long-term migrants, refugees, recent arrivals, asylum seekers, ageing populations, people with a disability and other vulnerable populations.
Community members can access Federation University’s Physiotherapy Virtual Care Clinic with the referral of their health professional or a self-referral by visiting https://tinyurl.com/FedPhysioVirtualCare  
Quotes attributable to Federation University Professor of Physiotherapy, Marie-Louise Bird
“The virtual care clinic is reducing regional obstacles to healthcare for people living with a chronic illness like distance, cost and long wait times and we are proud to partner with Gippsland Multicultural Services and Latrobe Health Assembly to increase access to this service.”
“The clinic is not only making it easier to access physiotherapy services for those living remotely, but the satellite hubs support those without videocall technology at home.”
Quotes attributable to Latrobe Health Assembly Board Chair, Tanya Rong
“Physiotherapy has huge benefits – whether it’s for someone with a chronic condition, an injury or recovering from a health event.”
“Providing that extra support in a welcoming space like Gippsland Multicultural Services helps more people in the Latrobe Valley community access the care they need.”
Quotes attributable to Gippsland Multicultural Services CEO, Sally Gafa
“GMS welcomes this opportunity to partner with Federation University to enable increased access to allied health services for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.”  
“Access to free services in a familiar space is extremely valuable in removing potential barriers for members of our community.”