Acupuncture Post Graduate Study

Nov 22, 2018 | Acupuncture

Our long-time resident acupuncturist, Kirsten Baker has been busier than usual this year having undertaken post-graduate studies in preparation for a research higher degree.

Kirsten’s original research project, due for completion and dissemination in 2019 focuses on the potential role of acupuncture in the treatment of marginalised and underserved populations. Kirsten has been inspired by her work with marginalised populations through the Inclusive Health Clinic (IHC) located in inner-city Brisbane, where she is the founder and coordinator of a community or group based acupuncture studio within a community health service incorporating GP, dental and allied health services.

Research from the United States on the use of integrative or complementary medicine (including acupuncture) for underserved populations shows that affordability, accessibility, and awareness are the key factors that limit treatment for these population groups. These findings highlight obvious inequities in healthcare delivery and shine a spotlight on the social determinants of health.

A clear evidence base demonstrates that when these barriers are removed there is a high degree of acceptability of acupuncture in the management of chronic pain conditions such as back pain, osteoarthritis, neck and shoulder pain, and headaches/migraines.

Kirsten hopes her Australian first research into the contribution of acupuncture in the treatment of marginalised populations is the starting point for further research into integrative health service delivery amongst marginalised populations and provides a compelling source of information to policy makers and stakeholders within the public health sector.

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    COVID-19

    As per the government health guidelines on the 22nd of March 2020 non essential services will be closed. This does not include us. While we are still open for our usual services we will be practicing strict and heightened hygiene measures during this time to prevent further spread of COVID-19.

    From the PM’s address today, we want to be clear we are not a gym. We are a health care practice, that provides services to optimise health and reduce pain from musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Our studio team are ensuring complete high grade sanitisation of props and equipment that will only be single person use for each session, and ensuring social distancing. The staff and studio have had no connection to the COVID-19 at this time.

    As per the government health guidelines we will not allow access to our services if you answer “yes” to any of the below:

    Have you been overseas in the last 14 days?
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    If answered yes to any of the above, please call the COVID-19 hotline on 1800 020 080.

    We ask patients who are at risk to please let us know before your appointment so we can discuss your position. This includes immune-suppressed, the elderly and those who have been in high-risk areas. We also ask that you call the clinic if you do develop COVID-19 or have come in contact with someone who has so we can act according to the government recommendations.

    For all treatments, our linen is being changed for every client and a wipe down of all equipment used. We ask that you remain in your car until your treatment time to minimise patient to patient contact in the waiting area. We also ask that you use ‘tap and go’ for your payment method rather than cash. Also we will not require you to sign your health fund slip to minimise cross use of pens between staff and patients. All our door handles and surfaces are regularly being cleaned during the day.

    We ask everyone who comes in for group therapy sessions.

    Bring a large towel and socks.
    Keep 1.5m distance between yourself and others.
    Wash your hands before and after the class.
    If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your face and wash or sanitise hands immediately.
    If you wish to wear gloves we have them available for you.
    Online and Telehealth will be an option in the very near future….watch this space.

    We are understanding of each and everyone’s individual position and we deeply care for your health and encourage everyone to take steps to keep strong and healthy at this time. Please feel free to call or email our staff to voice your concern and receive guidance. We are dedicated to informing you of our position and future movements in relation to Covid-19.

    Thank you for your cooperation and support.

    TLWS Management team.