DPV Health is a not-for-profit organisation that offers exceptional health care services to people of all ages. We are the largest community health provider in Melbourne’s North, operating across five Local Government areas (LGAs): Whittlesea, Hume, Mitchell, Melton, and Banyule
Our Purpose
To support you to live a happy and healthy life, through the provision of inclusive, locally based health and wellbeing services.
Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians and Country
DPV Health acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters on which our services and sites are located We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and extend our deepest regards to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Welcome
Winter
Welcome to the Winter 2024 Edition of “PULSE”
Exploring this edition of the Pulse newsletter, you’ll find information on supporting women’s health, dentalcare, and important information on the effects of Vaping
We are also launching our ‘new look’ Home Care Package service to help those get more out of their services, change providers, or need help starting their Home Care Package journey.
In July, we are launching another new Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub at our Broadmeadows GP Clinic The hub is our second one, with the first having commenced at the Mill Park GP Clinic in January
I would also like to encourage our communities to prepare themselves and their families for the current flu season by booking a flu vaccination and a COVID booster. Both of these can be administered together and will help protect you and your family through the Winter season
Engaging with our community continues to be priority Over the last few months, we have pa in a range of community events and cultural f across Melbourne’s North It was wonderful to many of our clients, community members an employees and thank them for their ongoing
We would love to receive your feedback on th PULSE, as well as suggestions for topics that included in future editions Please send an em marketing@dpvhealth org au
Wishing you good health!
Don Tidbury CEO, DPV Health
WELCOME
OralHealthDuringWinterTimes
Dental Health
As the temperature drops and the days shorten during winter, our oral health faces unique challenges.
Here are some practical tips to maintain optimal oral hygiene during the colder months:
1. Stay Hydrated
Indoor heating systems can lead to dry mouth, reducing saliva production Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva flow and wash away food particles
2. Healthy Diet
Opt for teeth-friendly foods and limit sugary treats and beverages A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and dairy products provides essential nutrients for oral health.
3. Oral Hygiene Routine
Don’t let the cold weather disrupt your brushing and flossing routine. Especially important after indulging in sugary or acidic foods
4. Protect Your Lips
Use lip balm to prevent chapped lips, which can impact your oral health
5. Fluoride
Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash help defend against cavities.
6. Visit Your Dentist
Regular check-ups can catch potential issues early and keep your oral health on track. Remember, using desensitizing toothpaste can provide relief for tooth sensitivity, and avoiding sudden temperature changes when eating or drinking hot and cold items is essential
Stay warm and keep smiling! ��
option 2) For more information on this service contact:
or download the brochure here
Women’sHealthHub
Sexual & Reproductive Health at Mill Park
DPV Health are now offering Sexual and Reproductive Health services at our Mill Park Medical Centre as a part of our Women’s Health Hub!
Through our Sexual and Reproductive Health clinic we offer information and support to all women, girls and gender diverse people in the community regarding contraception, pregnancy options, termination and sexual health testing and treatment
Our specialised and experienced team of practice nurses and doctors deliver a range of services that assist in managing all matters related to women’s sexual and reproductive health The service is delivered in a non-judgemental and respectful way, with client choice and privacy at the centre of
we do.
What services do we offer?
At the Mill Park Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub, we provide information and support for the following:
Information, advice, and administration of all forms of contraception, including oral, injectables, and longacting reversable contraception, such as IUDs and Implanon
Pregnancy support, advice, and guidance, including fertility advice, antenatal care, and terminations
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing, treatment and support
HPV and Mpox vaccinations
Access to health screening including cervical, breast and bowel screening
Referrals to other allied health services, as appropriate
The initial point of contact for all clients accessing the service will be through an appointment with a sexual health trained Practice Nurse. During this appointment, the nurse will conduct a comprehensive Sexual Health Assessment (Sexual Health history taking and initial support). Depending on the presenting medical conditions, the nurse will organise with the Doctor for any pre-appointment examinations, such as blood tests
After completion of the assessment, the nurse will book an appointment for the client with the most suitable Doctor
WELCOME
FightthisWintersFlu Medical Services
Influenza (‘the flu’) is a potentially serious infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by influenza viruses and spreads easily from person to person. Flu and the common cold cause infection of the nose and throat, but they are caused by different viruses The flu can be much more serious than the common cold, as it can affect your lungs and you can end up in hospital
Here are five simple tips to help you and your loved ones flight this years flu:
1. Get Vaccinated
Book your Flu Vaccine and 2023 COVID-19 dose with your GP, Local council, Pharmacy or Immunisation Nurse at DPV Health
2. Let fresh air in
As a parent, your role is to define the meal times and offer food choices. You should allow your child to decide if they want to eat and how much to eat Children are more likely to eat and drink how much their body needs if they are not pressured to eat
3. Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth
5.Practice good hygiene and other healthy habits.
Cleaning frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs regularly can help prevent the spread of some illnesses Also, get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food
Book in for your vaccination appointment
1300 234 263 or book online here (select option 1)
HowmuchdoyouknowaboutVaping?
Community Health
A vape, commonly known as an electronic cigarette or e-cigarette, is a device powered by a battery that heats a liquid, referred to as e-liquid, to produce an inhalable vapour Contrary to popular belief, this vapour is not water vapour, but primarily consists of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, or glycerol Vape liquids can also contain various flavourings, such as blueberry or bubble gum, making them attractive, especially children and adolescents.
What is inside a vape?
Vapes contain harmful substances Chemicals like formaldehyde (used in industrial glues), acetone (found in nail polish remover), acetaldehyde (used in chemicals, perfumes, and plastics) and acrolein (found in weedkiller) have been detected in vapes Heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead, as well as other compounds may also be present
Are there any health risks associated with vaping?
Nicotine, a highly addictive substance found in many vape liquids, poses significant threats to adolescent brain development and addiction Individuals' dependent on nicotine may experience withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, including irritability and depression
Beyond nicotine addiction, vaping presents additional safety hazards. Instances of vapes exploding or catching fire have been reported, resulting in burns and injuries The chemicals present in vape aerosols carry their own set of risks, including the potential to cause cancer, heart disease, or lung disease Studies also suggest an increased risk of lung disease among vape users as well as pregnant individuals due to harm to the foetus
Are there any Government regulations in place?
The Commonwealth Government have put in place regulations to mitigate the harm associated with vaping People using vapes as a smoking cessation strategy without a prescription are urged to speak with a health professional From 1st March 2024, it will be illegal to import, manufacture or supply any disposable or nontherapeutic vape From this date, patients will no longer be able to order vapes from overseas, even though they have a prescription
Vaping Support Available:
For those seeking support to quit vaping or smoking, resources like Quitline are available. Quitline offers counselling services, online chat support, and resources for both individuals and health professionals to aid in the cessation process Call Quitline or visit the website: www quit org au
References:
WELCOME
BeatingtheWinterBlueswithVitaminD
Nutrition & Dietetics
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is very important for bone health. It helps your body to absorb calcium from food. It also controls the amount of calcium in your blood and helps keep your bones strong.
Not only is vitamin D important in controlling the absorption of calcium from the foods we eat It also helps with:
Growth and development of your bones and teeth
Making sure you have a healthy immune system
Hormone function
Maintaining your nervous system.
It is very important to ensure you have an adequate store of vitamin D for your health Low vitamin D levels can lead to:
Low mood
Increased risk of osteoporosis, falls and fractures
Low immunity Fatigue
Older people, those who are housebound or in residential care, naturally dark-skinned and those who cover their skin for personal or cultural reasons are more at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency can also be prevalent in those diagnosed with diabetes.
Did you know that not all vitamin D comes from what you eat? In fact, it is very difficult to get enough vitamin D from foods alone. Most Australians get only around 10 per cent of their vitamin D from the food they eat. The main reason is that there are few foods that are rich in vitamin D, and the vitamin D in such foods is not in a form that works well in the body.
The main source of vitamin D comes from the skin being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. To ensure you are getting enough Vitamin D in the colder months, aim to do outdoor activities in the middle of the day where parts of your skin are uncovered (for example, your arms and face).
Prolonged exposure to sunlight does present the risk of skin cancer. The Cancer Council advises that when UV levels are 3 or above, extended sun exposure is not recommended. It is still important that you include foods that are relatively high in vitamin D to boost your intake, especially in the winter. The best sources of vitamin D are:
Eggs
Mushrooms
Fatty fish such as salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel
When should I be concerned about my nutrition and seek help?
If you find that you:
Have been diagnosed with low vitamin D
Fortified margarines
Fortified milk and yoghurt.
Need nutritional advice to help ensure you are meeting your requirements for vitamin D or other nutrients
Would like personalised advice and support to get your energy back or
Need support to get you through winter with some ideas for quick and easy hearty meals
Our Dietitians listen and work with you to support your health, wellbeing and goals We offer face to face and telehealth appointments, as well as home visits.
1300 234 264 (select option 4) or download the brochure here
For more tasty, healthy and easy to make Recipes scan the QR codes or visit: www goodfoodforgoodhealth com au
1 In a small bowl, combine egg, milk, butter and honey. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened.
Preheat oven to 200ºc In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt
2. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups threefourths full. Bake until a toothpick inserted in centre comes out clean, 15-18 minutes.
4.
3. Cool 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Serve warm.
DPVHealthEvents
2024 Craigieburn Community Festival
We had an amazing time at the Craigieburn Festival in March
It was fantastic to connect with so many people in the community and share information about our Home Care Packages, NDIS Disability Services, Children's Dental Hygiene and other DPV Health Services.
2024 Whittlesea Community Festival
DPV Health also attended the Whittlesea Festival in March!
It was a wonderful event meeting people in the community and share information about our Services. A key highlight was having our wonderful Community Representatives host the stall with us!
A huge thank you to everyone who came to visit and those who gave up their Sunday to support us
We are proud to be a small part of a big day at the Hume City Council Sorry Day event in June
Don Tidbury DPV Health CEO Said "Sorry Day is a day of remembrance and reflection dedicated to acknowledging the historical mistreatment and injustices suffered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly the Stolen Generations I was proud to attend with some of DPV Health’s First Nations team (Beba, Lin & Kellie) to acknowledge and reflect on the importance of Sorry Day"
On this significant day, we joined hands with the community to acknowledge and honour the traditional custodians of this land the Wurundjeri people and express our heartfelt apologies for the pain and suffering caused by past policies and actions
As a small token of support for the Sorry Day Event, DPV Health provided a free coffee van to serve hot cups of coffee for all attendees For more information on these services go to www.dpvhealth.org.au
