We’ve compiled a list of peak body organisations that can help you find those health professionals who would be a great part of your care team. They may offer online sessions for those in regional and remote areas. NDIS early intervention goals in your plan can help pay for services. Where possible, build a care team with people whom you can trust to be open with, and who will listen to you. Building a care team means nothing if you don’t feel listened to or aren’t comfortable talking to them about anything.

If you’ve read about the importance of making a multidisciplinary healthcare team and who should be on your care team, the next step is finding an allied health professional.

  1. General Practitioner (GP): Your GP can provide referrals to specialists and allied health professionals who have experience with Parkinson’s disease.
  2. Specialist neurologists: Neurologists, especially those specialising in movement disorders, can offer valuable guidance and referrals.
  3. Parkinson’s organisations: State or Territory-based organisations like Fight Parkinson’s (VIC) and The Hospital Research Foundation – Parkinson’s SA& NT or ACT provide resources and contacts for allied health professionals. You can visit their website or contact the infoline if you need help.
  4. Local support groups: Join local Parkinson’s support groups face-to-face or online to connect with others and receive recommendations for trusted allied health professionals.
  5. Local hospitals and clinics: Many hospitals and clinics have specialised clinics for Parkinson’s disease, where you can find a team of allied health professionals.
  6. Online directories: Websites like the Allied Health Professions Australia (AHPA) offer directories of allied health professionals.

References: 

Goldman, J. G., Volpe, D., Ellis, T. D., Hirsch, M. A., Johnson, J., Wood, J., Aragon, A., Biundo, R., Di Rocco, A., Kasman, G. S., Iansek, R., Miyasaki, J., McConvey, V. M., Munneke, M., Pinto, S., St Clair, K. A., Toledo, S., York, M. K., Todaro, R., Yarab, N., … Wallock, K. (2024). Delivering Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Care in Parkinson’s Disease: An International Consensus Statement. Journal of Parkinson’s disease14 (1), 135–166. https://doi.org/10.3233/JPD-230117

Share

Other articles

  • CARE TEAM | Support groups for carers & people with YOPD

    Whether you are newly diagnosed, well-versed in Parkinson's, or a care partner, finding the right support group can make a significant difference. Social activities provide a valuable network, combat feelings of loneliness, and connect you to new information. Being diagnosed as young onset, poses its own challenges in finding people a group of people that look like you.

  • NDIS | Understanding Your NDIS Plan

    Your NDIS plan is built around your goals and support needs and funding is divided into Core, Capital and Capacity Building budgets. Core funding is generally the most flexible. Capacity Building funding can support your allied health therapies (e.g. AEP, APD, Speech Pathology, Physiotherapy, OT, podiatry, psychology, social worker). Plan management offers flexibility while reducing administrative burden, but you have the option of self-management.

  • RELATIONSHIPS | Intimacy, Sexuality & Dating

    Parkinson’s can affect intimacy, sexuality and relationships in physical, emotional and practical ways. Sexual difficulties are common, but they are not experienced by everyone. Many people continue to have satisfying intimate relationships after diagnosis. Communication is one of the most important factors in maintaining intimacy and connection. Intimacy involves more than sexual activity. Touch, affection, companionship, emotional connection and shared experiences all contribute to healthy relationships. Professional support is available if Parkinson’s affects your sexual wellbeing, confidence or relationship.