NIIM Integrative HealthCheck Your HealthCheck Explained Learn more Email Healthcheck@niim.com.au Phone (03) 9912 9595
INTRODUCTION Welcome to the. Created by Australia s top integrative doctors, our program is the most comprehensive health check in Australia, designed to help you take control of your health now, and in the future. Our clinic combines traditional diagnostic excellence with state-of-the-art integrative medicine to bring you a comprehensive assessment of your lifestyle, nutritional health, physical activity, stressors, environment, digestion, and other relevant health indicators.
SCHEDULE INITIAL APPOINTMENT (5.5 HRS) Pathology collection Naturopath Dark Field Microscopy GP - Medical Examination Osteopath - Full Musculoskeletal Assessment Pressure, basic Body Composition, Vision and Hearing checks) Breakfast is included Psychologist - Emotional Wellbeing/Performance Enhancement Nurse Physical Assessment (incl. Pulse Wave Analysis, Spirometry, ECG, Blood MEDICAL IMAGING (1.5-2.5 HRS) Abdominal ultrasound Pelvic ultrasound (Women only) DEXA scan for bone density Stress Echocardiograph with Cardiologist RESULTS APPOINTMENT (1 HR) 1 hour with GP to review all results and recommendations
TESTS EXPLAINED At NIIM we believe health is your most valuable asset. That is why we go to great lengths to determine any common deficiencies. The HealthCheck covers all major risk areas and provides a comprehensive panel of cutting-edge medical testing. PATHOLOGY TESTING An extensive profile of laboratory tests which enable the GP to identify your risk for disease and provide the best advice to improve your health and wellbeing, both now and in the future. Full Blood Examination This blood test looks at haematology and provides important information about the type, number and appearance of cells in the blood, especially red blood cells (vital for carrying oxygen around the body), white blood cells (key to the body s immune system), and platelets (clotting cells) (important for controlling and stopping bleeding). ESR ESR is a nonspecific marker that indirectly measures how much inflammation is in the body to help diagnose conditions that can cause such inflammation, pain, and other symptoms. Liver and Kidney function Liver and kidney function tests screen for substances involved in the proper functioning of these organs. Abnormal results can indicate a variety of liver or kidney problems, such as infection, toxicity or nutrient deficiencies. Lipids & Triglycerides Total cholesterol results are broken down into the types of lipids and triglycerides found in the body. As different levels of different types of lipids are associated with various health or disease states, this test provides a clearer indication of the role cholesterol plays in your health. Fasting Blood Glucose This is a measure of the glucose level in your blood. Elevated fasting glucose levels may be an early sign of diabetes. Low levels could indicate too much insulin in the blood. Fasting Insulin This blood test measures the level of insulin in the blood and can help diagnose the cause of low blood sugar as well as diabetes. C-Reactive Protein C-reactive protein is a blood marker associated with inflammatory processes and high levels may be indicative of inflammation and related disease. Serum Homocysteine Elevated homocysteine is a strong indicator for heart disease. High homocysteine levels indicate that the LDL cholesterol (even if at very low levels - naturally or due to medications) is able to stick to the blood vessel walls, potentially causing blockages in the future. A high result is also a marker for B12 deficiency. Lipoprotein (a) Lipoprotein(a) are small, dense, inflammatory lipoprotein molecules made in the liver, which produce change in both the viscosity and flow of blood through arteries throughout the body. Red Cell Magnesium The Red cell magnesium test is a nutritional blood test. Magnesium is a key element in enzyme processes throughout the entire body. Vitamin D Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphate blood levels, and is involved in immune system modulation, bone mineralisation, control of normal cell growth, regulation of insulin secretion and blood sugar control. Plasma Zinc Zinc is necessary for immune function, wound healing, your sense of taste and smell, essential for cell division and growth, and regulates every metabolic reaction in your body.
PATHOLOGY Continued Serum Ferritin + Iron studies Serum Ferritin levels are directly proportional to the amount of iron stored in the body. This test evaluates how well your cells absorb and utilise iron. Vitamin B12 B12 is essential for red blood cell production and nervous system functioning. In addition, it is required to maintain healthy (low) blood levels of homocysteine. Vitamin B12 levels commonly fall with age, and may result in increasing fatigue, anemia and neurological problems. Vegans and vegetarians are particularly prone to Vitamin B12 deficiency. Thyroid Function Test (TSH, FT3, FT4 and thyroid antibodies) An unbalanced thyroid gland can lead to digestive problems, weight gain, insomnia, fatigue, infertility, arthritis, and even osteoporosis. This test measures levels of thyroid hormones as well as antibodies to determine the health of the thyroid. Urinary Iodine Iodine is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid glands, which regulate cellular energy expenditure, and is essential for cholesterol control and the proper functioning of the central nervous system. Urinalysis This test is a thorough assessment of kidney health, with a view to identifying any disease or damage. It is also used to diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs). Testosterone This blood test checks for abnormal levels of testosterone, which may affect sexual libido, cause erectile problems and infertility in men and may promote male characteristics in women such as excessive hair. Oestradiol Oestradiol is a steroid hormone which primarily regulates female reproductive function. This test is useful to explain abnormal periods, heavy bleeding or symptoms of menopause. FSH Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a gonadotrophic hormone produced and released by cells in the brain. It is one of the hormones essential to pubertal development and the function of the ovaries and testes. LH Luteinising hormone (LH) is a gonadotrophic hormone produced and released by cells in the brain. It is crucial in regulating the function of the ovaries and testes. SHBG Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein that binds tightly to the hormones testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estradiol. Changes in SHBG levels can affect the amount of hormone that is available to be used by the body s tissues. DHEAS DHEA is a steroid hormone produced by cholesterol, which your body converts into other hormones, namely testosterone and oestrogen. Most of the DHEA in the body exists in the blood in the sulphated form, DHEAS which is what is measured in testing. Cortisol (am) Cortisol is a steroid hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. It is vital for survival given its role in immunity, regulating blood pressure, releasing insulin for blood sugar maintenance as well as being involved in the stress response. Serum PSA (males) Prostate Specific Antigen or PSA is a protein made by the prostate which is naturally secreted into the bloodstream, and if elevated, can be a sign of possible prostate cancer. Faecal Occult Blood A bowel cancer test that uses a stool sample to detect small traces of blood found in cancers or in large polyps. Progesterone Progesterone is a sex hormone produced mainly in the ovaries and is a crucial part of the menstrual cycle. It is a precursor to both estrogen and testosterone and is involved in brain function, nervous system and reproductive function.
SPECIALIST TESTING Dark Field Microscopy Blood cells are viewed in their living state on a large screen. Your practitioner will discuss findings with you. Spirometry (Lung Function) Measures both lung capacity and airflow, whilst also screening for a variety of lung conditions and diseases. Pulse Wave Analysis (SphygmoCor) This non-invasive screening tool obtains critical cardiovascular data in real-time to assess central blood pressure and other heart function parameters. Dark Field Microscopy Pulse Wave Analysis Spirometry RADIOLOGY Bone Density (DEXA) A scan which assesses bone strength and tests for early signs of osteoporosis. Abdominal Ultrasound A painless and non-invasive imaging test to assess the health of your abdominal and digestive organs. Stress Echocardiography An exercise stress-test using ultrasound imaging to detect any decrease in blood flow to the heart from narrowing in the coronary arteries. This test requires high intensity exercise on a treadmill Runners are required for this test. Pelvic Ultrasound (Women only) A non-invasive diagnostic exam that produces images that are used to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis.
PRACTITIONER APPOINTMENTS GP - Medical Consultation NIIM Practitioners combine the most effective conventional and evidence-based complementary therapies, nutrition and lifestyle interventions to help prevent illness and promote health. The GP will examine your current health status and discuss answers in your HealthCheck questionnaire. Osteopath Full Musculoskeletal Assessment Learn about the relationships between the body s structure, framework and function. The Osteopath assesses your posture, muscle strength, range of movement, strains or injuries, whilst taking into account possible environmental and lifestyle factors. Naturopath Dark Field Microscopy Dark Field Microscopy is a system to analyse living blood and shows the effects of degenerative changes in the blood. Evaluations include digestive competency, gut permeability, immune activity, nutrient status, circulatory problems and liver stress. Psychologist - Emotional Wellbeing Assessment & Performance Enhancement A psychologist offers transparency and an ultimate tool kit for enhanced relationships, decreased work stress to optimise sustained health and successful performance in all life goals. GP - Follow-Up Consultation (with a clinical summary for you) A folder is provided with your clinical results, individual recommendations and follow up measures for your optimal health. The GP makes a recommendation if further follow ups are required, which can be performed by your regular GP.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Where do I go on the day? The HealthCheck is located at the NIIM Clinic, 21 Burwood Road, Hawthorn. When you arrive please go to level 2 reception and mention you are there for your HealthCheck. Is there parking? All day parking is available at the rear of NIIM and is accessible via the driveway on the right hand side of the building. Alternatively, on-street parking is available at St James Park close by. Church St St James Park Tram Stop 25 Dernham St NIIM Barkers Rd Burwood Rd Power St Why do I need to fast? Appointment 1 Initial Fasting is required overnight (8 hrs) prior to the pathology collection at the initial appointment. This ensures accuracy of your pathology results. Swan St Hawthorn Train Station Riversdale Rd Appointment 2 - Imaging Fasting will also be required for your medical imaging appointment. It is also a requirement to have an empty bladder when performing the abdominal ultrasound. Please avoid food or drink for 4 hours prior to this appointment. Women will need to drink 1 litre of water between ultrasounds as pelvic ultrasounds require a full bladder. What do I do if I am taking medication? Please continue to take prescribed medications. If fasting conflicts with the advice given for taking your medication(s) (e.g. Diabetes and Hypertension), please consult your Doctor or Specialist. What will happen if there are abnormalities in my test results? Should abnormalities be identified during your visit, our doctors will refer you to your own General Practitioner or an appropriate Specialist for further investigation. Cancellation / Re-booking policy We request that all cancellations and rescheduling of appointments are communicated to our HealthCheck Team as soon as you are aware that you are unable to attend your appointment. Please note that cancellations or postponements made within 48 hours of a scheduled appointment may incur a fee.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Continued Does Medicare offer rebates for these HealthChecks? Unfortunately Medicare rebates are not available. Does Private Health Insurance cover any costs of the HealthCheck? Some insurers offer limited coverage depending on the level of extras you may have. If you have health screening as an extra, you may be entitled to claim a portion of the costs. It is recommended to check this with your provider.
Further Questions? Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the HealthCheck Team on (03) 9912 9595