Incontinence is the involuntary loss or partial loss of bladder or bowel control. Incontinence is not a disease; it is a symptom that can have many different causes. With assistance it is a condition that may be able to be managed, treated and sometimes cured.
What we do
Our service offers:
- An individual consultation with a Continence Nurse.
- Information and advice.
- Advice on continence products and where to buy.
- Advice and support with catheter care.
- Advice and treatment for children who wet the bed.
- Enuresis alarm hire ($20 per week) for ages 7 and up.
- Education and support with self catheterisation.
- Advice on funding schemes such as the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) and State Wide Equipment Program (SWEP).
Who we care for
The Continence Service provides advice and education for adults and children who suffer from bladder and/or bowel control problems.
You may have an incontinence problem if you experience:
- dribbling or leaking.
- leaking when coughing, laughing, sneezing or exercising.
- going to the toilet frequently during the day or night.
- needing to wear a pad.
- having a strong urge to pass urine with or without leakage.
- having bowel leakage or constipation
- day or night wetting.
How to access this service
A referral letter is preferred from your GP with your medical history. If you are aged over 65 or identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and are 50 years old or over, a My Aged Care Referral is required to access the CHSP (Commonwealth Home Support Program) funded consultation. You can contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. Clients with NDIS funding are required to complete a service agreement with Colac Area Health.
Funding programs include NDIS, TAC, DVA, CHSP and HACC. Please note that depending on which program you come under you may be charged a fee. Please speak to the Colac Area Health Intake team about fees when they contact you about your appointment.
What to bring
- List of current medications including over the counter vitamins or supplements.
- List of medical history- if GP did not send referral.
- The continence aids you currently use (if using any).
- 3 day Bladder and/or a bowel diary to first appointment (available in resources).
- Glasses, hearing aids or mobility aids as needed.
Contact information
Phone reception on 03 5232 5100 to make a referral or email the CAH intake team [email protected]
