Dietetics

What is Dietetics?

Dietetics is defined as ‘the application of the science of nutrition to the human being in health and disease’. Practicing clinicians in this field are called dietitians and are registered allied health practitioners who are able to practice through the NDIS. Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition and can provide specialised guidance around the appropriate management of diets for people who are affected by a wide array of health conditions. They form an integral part of the multi-disciplinary management of clients who present with complex needs, and can help maintain health and wellbeing, as well as reducing the risk of further complications.

Dietitians receive specialised training and are classed as Allied Health Providers under the NDIS. The profession is regulated by the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA), whose accreditation gives clinicians the title of Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD).

Who Can Access Dietetics?

Our dietitians work with people of all ages and abilities across the lifespan. As an approved NDIS provider, Hessel Group can provide tailored and individualised dietary advice that helps clients to achieve their goals. Dietetics can be particularly beneficial for clients presenting with the following:

• Chewing and swallowing difficulties.
• Excessive weight gain that impacts everyday functioning.
• Fussy, resistant, or picky eating habits, as well as food refusal.
• Bowel issues, including chronic constipation, diarrhea, and coeliac disease.
• Intellectual disability, neurological conditions, and mental health issues.

As well as providing intervention for clients presenting with disability and chronic conditions, dietitians can also provide dietary advice and programs for clients seeking to improve their overall health. This can be funded by the NDIS if it assists in working towards the goals outlined in a client’s plan.

What NDIS Goals Can a Dietician Help Me Work Towards?

Dietetics at Hessel Group supports a wide array of short and long-term goals. These include improving overall health and mental wellbeing, providing education around appropriate food choices, providing nutritious meal ideas for fussy eaters, improving gut health and appetite problems, as well as reducing mealtime stresses. The support of a dietitian is also important for clients looking to increase their everyday independence, particularly for those moving towards changes in living arrangements.

How Long Are The Sessions?

The type and length of appointment each client requires will be worked out in collaboration with the dietitian. Specific fees for NDIS clients are regulated, meaning costs are standardised across Australia.

Criteria:

Age range: People of all ages are eligible to receive this service.

Location: Dietetics sessions can be undertaken in a client’s home, educational facility, within the community, or in our specialised allied health clinics at Welland and Fullarton.