How many allied health professions are there

The National Health Services Directory provides directory information about a broad range of allied health services. We also recommend looking at our individual allied health profession pages which include links to the directories run by each profession. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website.

All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

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Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. Types of allied health professionals Paying for allied health services Finding an allied health professional Preparing for your allied health visit Talking with your allied health professional Where to get help. Types of allied health professionals Some of the most common allied health professionals include: audiologists chiropractors dietitians exercise physiologists genetic counsellors myotherapists music and play therapists occupational therapists orthoptists orthotists and prosthetists osteopaths pharmacists physiotherapists podiatrists psychologists radiographer or medical imaging technologist social workers sonographers speech pathologists.

Paying for allied health services Allied health services are generally not covered by Medicare, but there are some exceptions, such as: If you have a chronic health condition or have complex care needs, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates on some treatments if your local doctor has created a care plan for you. Finding an allied health professional Allied health professionals work in many places, including aged-care facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation services, community health centres, medical clinics and private practices.

Nuclear medicine technologists educate patients on what to expect, administer radiopharmaceutical injections, operate the medical equipment and maintain detailed records. Occupational therapists are allied health professionals who help individuals with disability or illness perform tasks and improve skills that are vital to their everyday lifestyle.

They might, for example, instruct a patient with a permanent disability on how to use adaptive equipment like leg braces or wheelchairs. These medical professionals conduct patient exams, order lab tests, make diagnoses, treat certain conditions, prescribe medications and collaborate with physicians and nurses as needed.

They can also choose to work in a variety of specialties. Physician assistants must complete a graduate-level PA program and obtain state licensure to practice.

Whether due to injury, illness or something else, patients can find themselves facing functional problems that can cause pain or discomfort. Physical therapists PTs are highly trained medical experts who diagnose issues and develop plans to improve mobility and prevent future issues. Treatment can include stretching, specialized exercises, hands-on techniques and more.

Speech-language pathologists work with individuals to treat or prevent speech, language and swallowing disorders. One of the great things about health care is there are so many rewarding career options, and this list is hardly exhaustive. With that in mind, it might be time to think about obtaining the high-quality education those roles require.

Berry College, for instance, provides professional networking opportunities with numerous providers and hands-on learning experiences. To learn more about how you can build the foundation for a successful health care career, visit our Pre-Medical Studies and Allied Health Programs page.

The campus is open to the public for outdoor recreation until further notice. Allied health practitioners often work within a multidisciplinary health team to provide specialised support for different patient needs. More information about the work of individual professions can be found on our professions page.

Allied Health Professions Australia, in its role as the national voice for allied health in Australia, has defined an allied health profession in the following way.