On Wednesday, August 30th, 2023, Royal Rehab LifeWorks was officially introduced in Cairns, with the unveiling of a dedicated allied health hub.
This service aims to provide essential, high-quality allied health services to individuals living with disabilities, recovering from illness or injury, managing chronic conditions, or looking to enhance their wellbeing and independence.
Royal Rehab LifeWorks Cairns offers a wide range of services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise physiology, speech pathology, psychology, and counselling. It focuses on offering a collaborative approach for individuals seeking a comprehensive therapeutic journey.
Royal Rehab LifeWorks Cairns also embraces innovative technology, such as virtual reality therapy, biofeedback, and wearable motion capture, to engage clients in their recovery and wellbeing. These technologies provide interactive exercises and immersive experiences tailored to improve physical, cognitive, and social outcomes.
Matt Mackay, the Chief Executive Officer of Royal Rehab, believes that combining technology with traditional therapies can lead to better outcomes. He expressed pride in bringing advanced technologies, some of which are new to Far North Queensland, to the community.
“We see the potential of technology alongside traditional therapies in improving our clients’ outcomes. We’re pleased to introduce these advanced technologies to the Far North Queensland community,” he said.
Sophie Villani, a Senior Physiotherapist at Royal Rehab LifeWorks Cairns, highlights the positive impact of technology on rehabilitative care.
“Our virtual reality systems offer a unique and enjoyable approach to therapy. It feels like playing a game during therapy sessions. These applications help with movement, chronic pain, and mental health. The best part is that it makes therapy fun and motivating,” Sophie shared.
“Our MediTouch 3D tutor is a special device that provides real-time feedback on exercises and progress. It’s easy to wear and tracks your movements, helping you make necessary adjustments.
“We also have the Ergolet ErgoTrainer body-weight-support system, which transforms our approach to walking and motor skill development. It allows us to adjust the amount of body weight you’re carrying, enabling earlier practice of walking and weight-bearing exercises. It’s all done safely with a special harness or sling,” she added.
Royal Rehab LifeWorks Cairns represents a blend of innovation and care, reshaping the landscape of rehabilitation and allied health services.
CEO Matt Mackay emphasizes that Royal Rehab’s focus on technology aims to bridge the gap between urban and regional areas, ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all.’
“Embracing technology in healthcare is not just a leap forward; it’s a compassionate outreach to those in regional areas. Now, individuals in Far North Queensland can access innovative rehabilitation and allied health therapy within their community. It’s a new era for recovery and wellbeing, where innovation meets accessibility right here in Cairns,” Mr. Matt Mackay concluded.
The launch event was attended by notable guests, including Deputy Mayor Terry, the Honourable Warren Entsch, MP, Federal Member for Leichhardt, the Honourable Curtis Pitt, MP, Chair of the Committee of the Legislative Assembly and Speaker of the Legislative, the State Member for Cairns, Mr. Michael Healy, MP, as well as clients, staff, and suppliers.
The event began with a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by local elder Uncle Peter Hyde of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji people, followed by speeches, the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, and the unveiling of a special commemorative plaque. The Cairns team took great pride in showcasing the hub and its innovative technologies.
