Medpods Medical Centre Doreen, Shop 2/20 Yellow Brick Road, Doreen (2025)

29/03/2024

From everyone at Medpods Medical Centre Doreen we wish everyone a healthy, safe and happy Easter holiday!

28/03/2024

Whether interacting with locals at the shops or connecting with colleagues at work, we can find opportunities throughout the day to exercise our social skills.

Ensuring regular interactions with others may offer physical benefits by reducing stress levels, a risk factor for stroke and heart disease.

We may also safeguard our mental health and well-being through these social connections.

Socialising can enhance resilience, self-esteem and sleep quality, while buffering against depression and anxiety levels.

These meaningful social exchanges can build strong bonds and a sense of belonging that stems from the internal cues of emotion and feelings.

We can start improving social connections through the quality and quantity of interactions we have each day.

These interactions may include greeting neighbours, smiling at those we pass on the street or reconnecting friendships.

Regularly exercising these social skills can build our confidence for other interactions while offering emotional support for ourselves and others.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can complement efforts towards well-being by providing a central place to manage your primary medical care.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

19/03/2024

As a tissue itself, blood moves throughout our body, interacting with all other tissues and organs.

This unique role allows analysis of how substances such as proteins, cells, or chemicals behave in our blood.

Your doctor uses blood tests to screen, diagnose, and monitor your health and highlight risk factors for chronic diseases such as high cholesterol.

Blood test results can provide valuable insight into the status of nutrition, our metabolism, and the effectiveness of current medication.

Also crucial in analysing organ and immune function, blood tests can identify health conditions related to infections, organ failure, anaemia, cancer and diabetes.

To complement the high quality of care Medpods Medical Centre Doreen provides, your doctor may arrange blood tests for you or those under your care.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

12/03/2024

We are well into the school year, and children should have settled into a routine.

At times throughout the year, we can check the physical aspects of their well-being to match their growth.

Correctly fitted bags and shoes can support posture, comfort and activities, as can adding sunblock application to their morning routine.

A wholesome breakfast and lunch with fruit, vegetables and minimally processed foods can help fuel them properly for the day.

Food preparation and meal time at the beginning and end of the day provide an opportunity to support their mental well-being.

We can use this space to ask questions about their day, how they have settled into school and any concerns.

The travel time to and from school is another opportunity to work through issues relating to teachers, students, classes and playtime.

Generating conversations with children takes less time once we build a picture of friend groups, their learning and other aspects of their school day.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can provide an overview of their well-being with a kid's health check to complement these efforts.

Your doctor can also coordinate the treatment of medical concerns such as difficulty seeing or hearing a lesson or an injury from lunchtime sports.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

10/03/2024

The doctors and staff of Medpods Medical Centre Doreen wish everyone an enjoyable long weekend.

Please note that the practice is open tomorrow for the Labour Day holiday, on Monday, the 11th of March.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

06/03/2024

More than half a million Australians sustain a work‑related injury or disease annually.

To minimise the impact of a workplace injury, a prompt assessment and course of action can assist recovery and the avoidance of re-injury.

Your doctor can coordinate recovery and rehabilitation, monitoring the effectiveness of treatment to optimise your return to work.

They provide a central place to communicate with employers, insurers, workplace rehabilitation providers and allied health practitioners.

Whether sustaining a strain, repetitive movement injury or other medical condition, Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can arrange treatment, medicals and certificates to assist your return to work.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

01/03/2024

The use of alcohol is of concern when we cannot stop without experiencing withdrawal symptoms or develop a tolerance to its effect.

Alcohol consumption will also impact our well-being and those around us when used excessively or if we continue to drink despite legal, social, or health problems.

When noticing these signs, we can take a break from alcohol to assess ourselves by recording how much we consume, how often and for what reasons.

It’s also helpful to note when we have the urge to drink using a rating of one to ten and which days we have had no alcohol.

We can start with a goal of at least two alcohol-free days a week to gauge the influence of alcohol consumption on our work, family, socialising and finances.

A minor reduction in alcohol intake may reduce our blood pressure and excess weight, which are risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes.

Reducing alcohol consumption may also influence our sleep quality, mood, energy, libido and liver health.

If wishing to make positive changes to your well-being, the confidential environment of a medical consultation is a comfortable place to start.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can address queries and concerns related to alcohol, discuss strategies for alcohol moderation and provide referrals to specialist services and allied health professionals.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

22/02/2024

The faster we seek treatment after a heart attack, the less heart muscle is lost and, consequently, the lower the potential risk of death and disability.

Although we use gripping chest pressure or pain to describe a heart attack, the signs can vary between men and women.

Women's experience of heart attack pain is often recounted as a more subtle pressure or tightness and sometimes felt in other locations, such as the neck, jaw, back or both arms.

Symptoms of heart attack in women can be an absence of chest pain with one or more shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, fatigue and nausea described instead.

Understanding these signs can help us act sooner, especially as time is crucial in survival and recovery from a heart attack.

It is also important to tell someone when sensing something is wrong.

When symptoms worsen or persist beyond 10 minutes, please call triple zero (000).

An understanding of the symptoms of heart attack may also prompt us to seek out the risk factors that contribute to heart disease.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can provide more information regarding individual risk and adjustments we can make to diet, exercise and lifestyle choices that influence heart health.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

17/02/2024

A missed period or a positive home pregnancy test is the time to make some healthy adjustments.

Quitting smoking and abstaining from alcohol should start immediately and, if not already, commencing folic acid and iodine supplements.

Your doctor can help assess your diet to ensure these supplements are covered and arrange blood tests to determine whether you require a booster when results identify low iron or Vitamin D.

A GP consultation is an opportunity to answer questions specific to your circumstances while reviewing medications, current well-being and any previous birth history.

Your doctor can use this information to assess your health, gauge risks and identify areas that require further investigation or referral.

They may also ask about your birth preferences, plans for prenatal testing and your preparation for childbirth.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can provide continuity of care for you and your baby throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

12/02/2024

Hot weather and rainfall are ideal conditions for mosquito numbers to boom.

As mosquito populations can take a few weeks to build up after heavy rainfall, there are some methods to keep mosquito numbers at bay.

We can start by removing stagnant water around properties by cleaning out gutters, drip trays under pot plants and emptying or covering anything that can hold water.

As mosquitoes prefer calm, shaded areas and a degree of humidity, we can also keep the grass cut short with shrubbery trimmed back from footpaths.

When cleaning up these areas, we can avoid mosquito bites by wearing loose pants, long-sleeved shirts and closed-in shoes.

Although mosquito bites are a minor irritation, those who experience body aches, diarrhoea, headaches, fever or nausea may wish to seek medical attention.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can help assist when insect bites are of concern, especially skin infections or sting-related anaphylaxis.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

06/02/2024

Tomorrow is Primary Health Care Nurses Day, highlighting the vital role of nurses in areas beyond the hospital environment.

It’s a day to celebrate the tireless and selfless care that nurses provide in general practice, aged care, schools, community and other settings.

On the day, we are encouraged to wear red, blue, and yellow primary colours to show our appreciation.

Alternatively, we can acknowledge their compassion, empathy, and professionalism with some kind words or a ‘Thank you’.

To learn more about the vital role of primary health care nurses in the health and well-being of all Australians, please visit:

https://www.apna.asn.au/profession/what-is-primary-health-care-nursing

01/02/2024

Most of us understand that fibre is crucial for keeping our digestive tract working smoothly.

To help achieve this, we can add fibre to our diet by including fresh vegetables, whole grains, fruit, nuts, seeds, and legumes in all our meals.

Those wishing to reach a healthy daily fibre quota should aim for about 30g.

As a cup of rolled oats, beans or lentils all contain roughly 15g of fibre, including these in at least two meals daily could achieve this goal.

However, some may wish to increase their fibre intake for gut health while keeping carbohydrate intake low for weight control.

For this purpose, we can include those foods that tick the boxes of high fibre with minimal carbohydrates, such as avocado, broccoli, asparagus, eggplant and red cabbage.

Beyond supporting our digestive system, optimal fibre consumption may help avoid constipation and haemorrhoids while potentially delaying the onset of chronic conditions such as bowel cancer.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can assist in managing chronic conditions and provide for your primary health care needs.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

28/01/2024

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners categorises skin cancer risk into average, increased and high risk.

A basic understanding is helpful when discussing skin cancer prevention and management with your doctor.

The list of factors associated with an increased risk of cancer is extensive, and your doctor will need to know your level of previous sun exposure, instances of skin cancer and family medical history.

Personal features may also influence our risk of skin cancer, especially if we have red or blond hair, light-coloured eyes, fair or sensitive skin and how much we freckle.

Your doctor can also perform excisions, where required, to remove spots of concern or send off a biopsy for further investigation.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can provide a professional skin cancer check, discuss individual risk factors and help you manage skin cancer prevention.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

25/01/2024

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen is closed for the Australia Day Holiday.

Regular opening hours will resume at the practice on Wednesday the 30th of January.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please book via the HealthEngine App, call 03 8724 0125 during opening hours or make an appointment through the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

19/01/2024

Some of us may see a decline in our regular level of physical activity over the new year period.

Those who have maintained a reasonable level of exercise to stay in condition may benefit when returning to exercise by avoiding potential injury.

Those who have had a long break from exercise may appreciate this video that describes a scenario where professional athletes lose their conditioning over the holidays.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRBVD0V1hP0

It highlights a sudden spike in ‘training load’ when athletes return from holidays to try and compensate for a loss of conditioning.

Their graph shows ‘training load’ versus holiday 'time' to explain how athletes should approach exercise management to avoid setting themselves up for injury.

‘Training load’ is the stress placed upon the body during training and competition, measured as the cumulative amount, intensity and type of physical activity we undertake.

Although the average person does not train at a professional level of competitive sport, their lesson can still apply to the intensity with which we return to a physical pursuit after a few weeks of almost no activity.

The main message is to avoid a complete ‘de-load’ on the body over the holiday period so we can return safely to the activities we enjoy.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can assist in managing sporting injuries within the context of your medical needs and provide referral to specialist services or allied health professionals as required.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

14/01/2024

Our quality and quantity of sleep can influence how we feel during the day.

When our sleep is interrupted or insufficient, we may seek other forms of rest during the day.

Some quiet time alone in a relaxing and calm location should provide an achievable start, even if that is having a nap at home.

A step up from this is spending quality time with those who value our company and who we enjoy being around.

Alternatively, we could absorb ourselves in something that has aesthetics we admire, like an art exhibition or a time amongst nature.

The idea is to spend time away from our daily work schedule or chores and appreciate something at a leisurely pace.

During these leisure times, we should permit ourselves to say no to obligations and instead focus on our needs and those we care for.

By having breaks from our obligations and responsibilities, we are free to hone our relaxation skills.

Our physical and mental well-being may benefit from leveraging these forms of rest as they offer a buffer against stress or setbacks in our everyday lives.

These are just a few ways to achieve other types of rest during the day to restore our energy,

The doctors of Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can discuss these and other health strategies as part of your consultation.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

10/01/2024

Even a minor break in an activity in which we are competent may see significant changes in our ability.

One area that may fade into the background over the year is swimming.

However, it's one skill we should retain a base level of competency with all year round.

After all, most of us will visit a swimming pool, lake, river or the seaside sometime over the summer.

A swimming assessment is a great way to gauge our ability, and for those who can swim well, a conservative judgement of skill is wise.

An awareness of the risks before heading outdoors and a healthy respect for the water before entering can complement any skill level.

We should appreciate that beaches have unpredictable rips, rivers may have deceptively fast-flowing currents, and lakes can have snags and obstructions under the surface.

Although pools offer the calmest waters, the same caution should apply regardless of how benign a swimming environment appears.

By telling someone our plans before we go and leaving alcohol behind, we may offer ourselves another layer of security.

Ideally, we should swim with someone else, with vigilant supervision essential where children or people under our care are in and around water.

Those less confident in their swimming ability should swim between the flags on a beach or in the local pool where lifeguards are present.

If unsure of taking on new physical pursuits such as swimming, your doctor can advise within the context of your current health.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can provide health assessments and discuss any medical concerns you may have.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

06/01/2024

Flowers may take the spotlight when we mention seasonal allergies, yet grass pollen is also a trigger in different seasons around Australia.

We can stay proactive in managing the cause of allergies by using free services such as the Melbourne Pollen App to plan outdoor activities.

Following the local reports and forecasts may see us maximise our time indoors on extreme pollen days.

Keeping windows closed and using air purifiers may help reduce indoor pollen levels and stirring up other allergens, such as animal hair.

It is wise to understand and prepare as much as possible for the triggers of allergens that affect us most.

Your doctor can help ensure you have the appropriate medication for allergies, including food-related conditions.

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen can perform allergen-specific tests and use the results, with your medical history, to determine the best course of action.

A consultation with your doctor can also review current treatment for conditions, such as, asthma and COPD, to optimise your well-being.

For those wishing to make a privately billed booking with Dr Emmanuel, please call 03 8724 0125, book via the HealthEngine App or the website here:

https://www.medpods.com.au/doctor-appointments-doreen-gp-medical-centre-near-mernda/

Medpods Medical Centre Doreen