Dee Why Family Medical Centre

25/07/2025

Have you had your pneumococcal vaccine?

As we get further into winter, respiratory illnesses like pneumonia become more common—especially for people aged 70+ or living with chronic health conditions.

At Qualitas Medical Practice, we’re reminding our patients that pneumococcal vaccination is an important part of winter protection.

Our latest article explains:

What pneumococcal disease is
Who’s eligible for the free vaccine
Why adult vaccination still matters

Not sure if you're due? Speak with your GP today.

Click below to learn more about staying protected this winter. https://bit.ly/3TpTLH0

Learn about who’s eligible for the free pneumococcal vaccine and how recall programs help prevent serious illness—especially for adults over 70 and those with chronic conditions.

18/07/2025

The EOFY rush is over—but how are you feeling?

As the new financial year begins, many Australians are still feeling the effects of EOFY stress: sleepless nights, anxiety, or just general burnout.

At Qualitas Medical Practice, we believe now’s the perfect time to pause, reset, and take care of your health, not just your finances.

In our latest article, we cover:

Simple routines to rebuild your energy
Mindfulness tips to ease stress and worry
Ways to manage tasks without feeling overwhelmed
Signs it might be time to check in with your GP

Start the new financial year feeling stronger and more balanced.

👉 Click below to read the full guide. https://bit.ly/450mZ4L

The end of the financial year can bring extra pressure. We share tips on managing stress through healthy routines, mindfulness, and realistic goal setting.

09/07/2025

This winter may be warmer than usual, but the mix of damp weather and temperature swings still brings a higher risk of colds, flus, and respiratory illnesses.

One simple way to protect your immune system? Vitamin C. 🍊

From boosting your body’s defences to helping you bounce back faster when you’re unwell, Vitamin C plays a key role in staying healthy through the season.

In our latest article, we cover:

Why Vitamin C matters in winter
The best food sources to add to your diet
When a supplement might help
Extra tips for staying well this winter

Stay strong and well this season—click below to read more.

https://bit.ly/4ljSq0M

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen your immune system and supports faster recovery from seasonal colds. Find out how to get enough through food, supplements, and smart winter habits.

27/06/2025

Worried about your eating habits or body image?

You don’t need a diagnosis to get help — just a conversation.

Your GP can be the first step to recovery from an eating disorder, helping you access assessments, referrals, and Medicare-supported care.

Whether it’s for yourself or someone you care about, early support matters.

👉 Learn what to expect and how to prepare for your appointment: https://bit.ly/4ekZcjS

If you're concerned about an eating disorder, your GP is a great place to start. Learn how to prepare for your appointment, what to expect during the visit, and how your doctor can support your recovery journey.

23/06/2025

Smoked in the past? A simple scan could save your life.

From July 2025, you may be eligible for this lung cancer screening if:

You’re aged between 50 and 70
You’ve smoked for a significant time (typically around 20–30 years or more)
Currently smoking or given up in the last 10 years
You currently don’t have symptoms of lung cancer

It doesn’t matter if you’ve quit. In fact, many former smokers qualify, and early detection still makes all the difference.

Lung cancer is often found too late. This scan helps catch it early, when treatment is more effective.

Qualitas Medical Practice can help check if you’re eligible — all it takes is a quick GP appointment.

Read more: https://bit.ly/4nf1l4L

If you're over 50 with a smoking history, you may be eligible for a new government lung cancer screening program. Talk to your GP at Qualitas Medical Practice today.

19/06/2025

Bowel cancer isn’t just an older person’s disease.

Rates of bowel cancer are rising in Australians under 45 — and many don’t realise the risks until it’s too late.

If you're experiencing persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, bleeding, or unexplained fatigue, don’t ignore it. Early detection can save lives.

Learn the signs, know your risks, and find out why screening now starts at 45.

Read the full article on our website: https://bit.ly/461w7b6

Bowel cancer is no longer just an older person’s disease. Learn about the rise in young-onset bowel cancer in Australia, key warning signs, and how early detection can save lives.

04/06/2025

🔔Public Holiday Notice

Our practice will be closed on Monday, 9th June, for the King’s Birthday public holiday. We’ll reopen as normal on Tuesday.

You can still book online and find more info on our website. https://bit.ly/3Zd7u7j

24/05/2025

Everyone Deserves to Feel Safe

Family, domestic and sexual violence affects millions of Australians — yet many suffer in silence. It doesn’t always leave bruises. It can be emotional, financial, psychological, or digital — and it can happen to anyone.

At Qualitas Medical Practice, we believe in breaking the silence. Our healthcare professionals are here to listen, support, and guide patients with compassion and confidentiality.

Understanding the signs could save a life. Learn about the cycle of abuse, warning signs, who is most at risk, and how to seek help.

Read more on how we can support you or someone you care about:
https://bit.ly/4kuuI0S

23/05/2025

Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month: Every Breath Counts 💙

May is Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month—a time to amplify awareness of one of Australia's most common life-limiting genetic conditions.

Cystic Fibrosis affects the lungs, digestive system, and overall wellbeing—yet early detection and consistent care can make a life-changing difference.

GPs are often the first to notice the symptoms, guide families through diagnosis, and play an ongoing role in managing this complex condition.

At Qualitas Medical Practice, our GPs work alongside specialists to support patients and families every step of the way—from early signs to long-term care.

Learn more about the signs, support, and how GPs can help: https://bit.ly/3YUGSrF

22/05/2025

Autism Awareness: Breaking Barriers in Healthcare

More than 290,000 Australians are diagnosed as autistic — yet many still face significant barriers when trying to access healthcare.

From complex medical systems to high costs and communication challenges, the journey to inclusive care can be overwhelming, especially for those from diverse or rural communities.

At Qualitas Medical Practice, we’re working to change that. By using plain language, offering interpreter services, and supporting individual needs, we’re committed to providing respectful and inclusive care for autistic patients and their families.

Learn more about how we can build a more inclusive healthcare system together: https://bit.ly/3FeLTog

19/05/2025

Protect Yourself This Winter: Get Your Flu Shot Today

Australia is facing an alarming surge in influenza cases and deaths. In 2024, flu-related fatalities increased by 65.7% compared to the previous year, with 1,006 deaths recorded—up from 607 in 2023. Early data from 2025 indicates that January and February flu deaths have already surpassed trends seen in previous years. (source: Australian Bureau of Statistics)

Health experts are particularly concerned about the early onset and severity of this flu season, noting a significant rise in laboratory-confirmed cases across the country since January. Despite the availability of updated flu vaccines targeting the challenging H3N2 subtype, vaccination rates remain low. A recent survey found that nearly one-third of Australians hadn't received a flu shot in the past two years.

The flu vaccine is free for eligible Australians under the National Immunisation Program. Vaccination remains the most effective defence against severe illness, hospitalisation, and death.

Don't wait—protect yourself and your loved ones.

Book your flu vaccination appointment with our practice today. https://bit.ly/4ltq6tl

Stay healthy this winter.

Source: ttps://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/clinical/fresh-push-to-turn-around-dire-flu-vaccination-rat

23/04/2025

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that can affect movement, balance, and coordination — but it’s so much more than its symptoms. For those living with Parkinson’s, and for the loved ones who support them, the journey can be filled with both challenges and courage.

Early diagnosis can make a significant difference, helping people better manage symptoms and maintain quality of life for longer.

While symptoms vary from person to person, common signs include:

Tremors or shaking at rest (often starting on one side)
Muscle stiffness that can cause pain or impact posture
Slowed movement that makes daily tasks more difficult
Noticeable changes to posture

But early signs aren’t always obvious. They can feel vague — things like:

Persistent fatigue
Mild depression or restlessness
Localised muscle pain

If you or someone you care about has noticed changes, even small ones, don’t dismiss them. Your GP is here to help — from listening and assessing symptoms to arranging tests and referring you to a specialist when needed.

Reach out early. You're not alone.

Book a consult with your GP today.

Source: Healthdirect – Parkinson’s disease