Continence Service

The Continence Service at Bass Coast Health (BCH) provides advice and education for people of all ages who suffer from bladder and/or bowel control issues.

Continence problems are often a symptom of another health problem and can almost always be treated, better-managed or cured. The first step is to speak to an appropriate health professional.

BCH has a team of experienced Continence Nurse Advisors including a Nurse Practitioner who following assessment, will develop a management plan in conjunction with you and your carer (if required), and provide education for the problems identified.

They offer information about appropriate aids and access to funding schemes if patients are eligible. The service also caters for children, providing advice and management of bed-wetting, day wetting, soiling and toilet training difficulties.

Clients who have Urinary Catheters in place or are required to self-catheterise may access the Continence Service.

Often a multi-disciplinary approach is required for bladder/bowel incontinence followed recent hospitalisation, gynaecological surgery, prostate surgery, pregnancy or a recent change in health status. The primary focus of the clinic is on rehabilitation and the program is usually conducted 12 weeks.

At the Phillip Island Health Hub, our Nurse Practitioner leads the urodynamics service - a bladder functional test often requested by a specialist before urological or gynaecological surgery.

Clinicians involved in a multi-disciplinary approach to Continence care include a Continence Nurse Advisor, Nurse Practitioner, Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Physiotherapist, Dietitian, Medical Specialist and allied health professionals.

Men and women can self-refer but a doctor’s referral is preferred. My Aged Care Referrals are required for clients over the age of 65 to access a consultation funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).

Clients with NDIS funding require a service agreement with BCH. The Continence Nurse will assess your continence needs relating to your disability, and provide a letter of support and recommendations.

The Continence Service is available at Wonthaggi Hospital and Phillip Island Health Hub from Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm. To book, phone 5671 3353.

BCH provides this service for people aged under 65 (under 50 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders) through the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC PYP). BCH also provides this service for people aged over 65.