(Western’s UniClinic building at Campbelltown campus. Photo credit: Jessica Cortis, 2017. UniClinic comes to the rescue of elderly patients.
Western Sydney University’s UniClinic offers a range of therapeutic health services to the general public at reduced rates. Located at the Campbelltown campus on Brian Smith Drive, Campbelltown, students under the close supervision of qualified professionals provide treatments and services. No referral is needed, and services include podiatry, traditional Chinese medicine, and speech pathology.
Podiatry
Podiatry students are supervised by highly trained and skilled podiatrists to ensure a high standard of professional care. Clients are asked about their current concerns, general health status and relevant medical history.
A wide range of podiatric procedures is offered. These include general treatments, minor nail surgery, assessments of the diabetic foot, children’s foot conditions, sports injuries, the aged population, biomechanical analyses, joint alignment, muscle dysfunction, and fabrication of orthoses.
Each client undergoes a thorough examination to assess their presenting issues. This information is discussed with a clinical supervisor to determine a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan is then discussed with the client to ensure it aligns with their lifestyle, daily activities, and budget.
The opening hours for the Podiatry service are from Tuesday to Thursday from 9am to 4pm. Fees include the following: $25 for concession/Western student consultation, $30 for a standard consultation, casted orthotics cost $350 (50% deposit is required at time of casting) and non-casted orthoses cost $65. Clients cannot claim fees on their health fund, Medicare or Veterans Affairs, and payment is required upfront, and they accept EFTPOS, Credit or Cheque payments. This applies to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Speech Pathology services as well.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine (TMC) is a holistic approach to healthcare that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary advice, massage and exercise to restore balance within the body.
Consultations are offered for a wide range of health concerns, which include digestive and gastrointestinal issues, respiratory and skin conditions, infections, allergies, hormonal and fertility problems, pregnancy support, chronic pain, injuries, arthritis, and cancer treatment support. TCM therapies are usually used together with general medical care.
During the consultation, the student will ask about the client’s current concerns, overall health history, lifestyle, and diet. An examination is then conducted based on both TMC theory, focusing on energy meridians, and western medical perspectives.
Afterwards, the student discusses the findings with their clinical supervisor to develop a diagnosis and suitable treatment plan. The plan is then reviewed with the client to ensure it is tailored to their condition, preferences and lifestyle. Clients are then advised on the expected time for the treatment and any follow-up appointments needed.
TMC treatments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1PM to 5PM. Fees include the following: $25 for concession/Western student consultation, $25 to include acupuncture, and $30 for a standard consultation.
Speech Pathology
Speech Pathology focuses on assessing and managing communication and swallowing disorders. It covers a wide range of practice areas including speech and language, voice disorders, nonverbal communication and swallowing difficulties. Speech pathologists work closely with individuals, families, and communities to provide personalised support and improve quality of life.
As with podiatry and TMC, the speech pathology service at the UniClinic is provided by students under the close supervision of experienced and qualified speech pathologists. Services are available to adults aged 18 and over, with both in-person and online appointments offered for flexibility.
Clients can access the UniClinic for support with a variety of communication and swallowing needs. Each consultation is tailored to suit individual goals, circumstances, and preferences. By combining clinical education with community service, the UniClinic offers a holistic and inclusive approach to speech pathology, enhancing student learning while supporting clients who are seeking to improve their communication or swallowing abilities.
Fees include the following: An individual one-hour consultation costs $25 for concession holders and $30 for all other clients.
Accessing the UniClinic and Making an Appointment
Individuals can email appointment inquires to uniclinic@westernsydney.edu.au or call 02 4620 3700. Reception hours are from Monday to Thursday, 9AM to 4:30PM. The UniClinic is in Building 24 at Western’s Campbelltown campus.
The UniClinic provides a valuable opportunity for the public to access affordable healthcare services while supporting students’ educational development. Individuals receive high-quality care in a learning environment. This approach not only improves student learning but also ensures that people receive the essential support they need.
