NIIM Integrative HealthCheck Your Essential Level HealthCheck Explained Learn more Email Healthcheck@niim.com.au Phone (03) 9912 9595
INTRODUCTION Welcome to the (Essential level). Created by Australia s top integrative doctors, the Essential level covers all major risk levels and provides a high value complete health program 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 (4 HRS) Pathology collection Naturopath Dark Field Microscopy GP - Medical Examination Blood Pressure, basic Body Composition, Vision and Hearing checks) Breakfast is included Nurse Physical Assessment (incl. Pulse Wave Analysis, Spirometry, ECG, RESULTS APPOINTMENT (1 HR) 1 hour with GP to review all results and recommendations *Note the Essential level does not include Medical imaging, Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis or the assessments by our Psychologist or Osteopath. These components can be added on at an additional cost if preferred.
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. 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. 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.
PATHOLOGY Continued 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. Serum Ferritin + Iron studies Serum Ferritin levels are directly proportional to the amount of iron stored in the body. This tests evaluates how well your cells absorb and utilise iron. Low iron levels can impair cellular function, while too much iron can cause injury to the heart, pancreas and joints. Serum PSA (males) Prostate Specific Antigen or PSA is a protein made by the prostate which naturally leaks 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. 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).
SPECIALIST TESTING Dark Field Microscopy Blood cells are viewed in their living state on a large screen. Your practitioner will discuss findings with you. 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. Spirometry (Lung Function) Measures both lung capacity and airflow, whilst also screening for a variety of lung conditions and diseases. Dark Field Microscopy Pulse Wave Analysis Spirometry
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. 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. Osteopath Full Musculoskeletal Assessment (optional as an add-on) 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. Psychologist - Emotional Wellbeing Assessment & Performance Enhancement (optional as an add-on) 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 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 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 Tram Stop 25 Hawthorn Train Station Riversdale Rd 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. 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