Author: APC Prosthetics

NDIS Introduces PACE

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

 

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has embarked on a groundbreaking journey with the implementation of the Participant/Provider Alternative Cloud Environment or for short PACE system, revolutionizing efficiency, and user-friendliness. PACE, the new billing system introduced by NDIA marks a significant milestone in enhancing the NDIS experience for both participants and providers. 

Key Updates of PACE: 

  1. Rollout Details 

The PACE system officially commenced its rollout in New South Wales on 30 October 2023. This new system is set to replace the current online system and MyPlace Portal introducing a new era of streamlined processes. 

  1. Changes for Participants 
  • New participants: Those receiving a NDIS plan for the first time will have their plans created in PACE 
  • Existing Participants with Changes: Participants experiencing changes in circumstances or support needs will undergo plant assessment in PACE from 31 October 2023 
  • Plan expiry between November 2023 and Late February 2024: Plans expiring during this period will either undergo a rollover or be transitioned to a new PACE plan if any changes are required. 
  • Plan Expiry After February 2024: Plans expiring after February 2024 will progressively transition to plans created in PACE 
  1. Changes affecting Participants and Providers: 
  • Endorsed Providers: Participants now have the authority to endorse their chosen service providers, enhancing the payment process and granting greater autonomy in provider selection 
  • New Portals: Both participants and providers will benefit from new, user-friendly portals designed to elevate their NDIS experience. 
  • Access to Participants’ Plans: Registered providers, support coordinators, and plan managers will have improved access to view participants’ plans with appropriate consent. 
  • No More Service Bookings: PACE eliminates service bookings, reducing administrative burdens and providing participants with greater flexibility in accessing services. 
  1. Impact on Current NDIS Plans: 

PACE will not affect existing plans until it is time for plan reassessment. Participants will continue with their current arrangements until a seamless transition during plan renewal. 

  1. For New Participants 

New Participants will be introduced to PACE during their planning meetings, ensuring a more efficient and user-friendly NDIS experience from the start 

  1. Endorsing Providers on PACE 

Once you are on the PACE system, you will need to endorse APC Prosthetics for your prosthetic providers. This will ensure the seamless continuity of our services. The endorsement can be done: 

  • During a new plan, participants confirm their choice of providers 
  • Contacting the NDIA National Call Centre or your Local Area Coordinator to express their endorsement. 

If APC Prosthetics isnt listed as your service provider, payments or approval may experience delays compared to the usual processing time. If you need assistance with this, please contact our admin team. 

  1. Provider Access to Participant Information: 

Registered providers, including APC Prosthetics, can view participants’ goals and nominee details with appropriate consent. Sharing goals with us ensures the best outcomes for you.  

  • To access this information, participants will be asked to fill a consent form 
  • You can OPT OUT of any information you do not wish to share with us 
  • Only your plan managers and support coordinators have access to funding information, therefore APC will still need to verify funding availability by contacting your appointed plan managers. 

 

APC is PACE READY 

 

APC Prosthetics is fully prepared for the PACE System. Stay tuned to our websites, social media channels and newsletters for future updates and detailed information. We are committed to providing the best possible support and outcomes for our participants. 

 

Transhumeral Prosthesis

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

Advantages of a Transhumeral (Above Elbow) prosthesis

For people with above the elbow (transhumeral) amputations and above elbow limb difference, prosthetics can be trickier to use than for people with amputations below the elbow joint. However, there are many benefits to using an above elbow prosthesis. Here are some of the reasons you should talk to us about a transhumeral prosthesis.

 

Advantages

  • Reduced strain on your intact arm, neck and affected side shoulder.
    • Many upper limb amputees or people with an upper limb congenital limb difference don’t seek prosthetic intervention. In the past, funding and access to information has been a barrier, as well as learning to accommodate for their limb difference means that many can “get by” without the use of an upper limb prosthetic device.
    • People who mostly use one arm for all activities are at higher risk of developing overuse injuries. Long term, we see these injuries leave the person with reduced overall function and higher reliance on others. Through earlier intervention and use of a prosthesis, this risk is reduced by allowing you to perform more activities with your affected side.
  • Improved ability to perform two handed tasks.
    • Some activities are very difficult to perform single handed. A transhumeral prosthesis can allow you to more easily undertake these tasks, while putting less strain on your body from poor posture/technique. For example, tying shoelaces, buttoning a shirt, cutting vegetables, or unscrewing a jar lid.
  • Increased stability when participating in activities which require hand control for safety, such as cycling.
  • Participation in recreational activities and activities of daily living (ADLs)
      • Transhumeral Moto X Arm 1You may simply be unable to perform some activities, or cannot do them without major accommodations, for example, swinging a golf club or carrying a basket of heavy laundry. A transhumeral prosthesis will allow you to engage in these activities.

Designs

Silicone liners

Some people use a silicone liner to help hold their prosthesis on. Silicone liners can allow for the use of locking mechanisms which may improve the security of the prosthesis.

Skin fit

Skin suction can be used to hold on a transhumeral prosthesis. This is necessary for myoelectric devices (Visit our Bionics page for more information)

Suspension sleeves/harnessing

Can be used with either silicone liner or skin fit systems. Provides additional suspension for improved security.

OsseointegrationGhanim Ali

A “bone-anchored prosthesis” removes the need for a socket. For users with deep scarring, nerve issues etc that make using a prosthetic socket painful or difficult, this option enables you to still get the advantages of using an above-elbow prosthesis.

Myoelectric

    • Electrically operated hand/hook, controlled by muscle activation with the residual limb.
    • Relies on specific placement of electrodes, and firm contact between prosthetic socket and residual limb.
    • Requires skin contact between socket and residual limb, cannot wear socks with his style of prosthesis.

Keiran ColeBody powered

    • Simplest method of controlling elbow and/or terminal device (hand/hook), relies on shoulder movement to open/close the terminal device.
    • Terminal device is usually attached to a forearm/ elbow section but can be attached directly to the end of the socket to reduce weight and improve manoeuvrability.
    • Can be used with liners and with socks.

 

Which transhumeral prosthetic options are right for you?

Interested in finding out more about transhumeral prosthesis options that will work for you? All of our clinics can service your needs for upper limb prosthetics. Use our clinic finder to find a branch or clinic closest to you and Contact APC Prosthetics to discuss your options!

APC Day 2023

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

On March 31, 2023, APC held our biannual Group Meeting Day, where all four branches gathered in one location for a day of information sharing, presentations, and enjoyment!

The morning session began with Managing Director Michael Storey, who discussed our successful 2022. He warmly welcomed new team members, acknowledged important work anniversaries, and celebrated a year of manufacturing limbs and providing outstanding service to our amputee community. Looking ahead to 2023 and beyond, we explored future aims, goals, and targets, ensuring our commitment to excellence in everything we do. We aimed to make the upcoming year even more remarkable than the last. Before splitting into three separate streams (clinical, technical, and administration) to delve into each aspect of our business, Branch Managers provided brief updates about each location. Moreover, fortunate clinicians who recently attended the AAOP Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, gave an engaging presentation accompanied by a slideshow of photos and country music!

Following a brief break for tea and some heartwarming moments with Lisa from the Tuggerah branch, who visited during her maternity leave, we formed smaller groups for in-depth discussions. The Clinical team engaged in fruitful conversations that could have continued well into the weekend if not for our return to our respective homes. As usual, our NDIS discussion was exceptional, allowing us to delve deep into our NDIS processes. This was a key focus of our day, ensuring continued engagement with the NDIS, excellent services to NDIS participants, and optimal outcomes. A notable addition to this year’s agenda was sharing complex case studies from each branch, providing an opportunity to leverage our collective experience and find solutions. As the saying goes, 29 heads are better than one!

The group meeting was a valuable opportunity for our admin team to gather and share our expertise in person. Over the past year, we welcomed numerous new team members, making it even more fulfilling to see everyone exchanging knowledge and building stronger relationships. The highlight of the day was Paul, APC Hunter Branch Manager, presenting Prosthetic 101. The admin team found it immensely valuable and engaging, as it provided insight into the industry and APC’s positive impact. This newfound knowledge will enable our administration team to better understand client needs and ask relevant questions without disrupting the clinicians’ work.

The APC Day was a fantastic occasion for the technical team to come together, foster stronger relationships, exchange ideas, and share knowledge. We had several sessions covering a range of topics, from work health and safety to innovative concepts being explored. These sessions were highly engaging and informative. Our group discussions sparked great ideas and led to innovative solutions. Overall, the day featured high-quality content tailored to the practical nature of our profession. Each team member gained valuable takeaways to implement in their workshops.

APC Day (and future similar events) allows us to unite as a team, harness our collective skills, knowledge, and expertise, and create industry-leading devices that perfectly align with our clients’ goals and daily activities.

Amputees NSW Charity Golf Day

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

We had the pleasure of supporting and participating in the Amputees NSW Charity Golf Day on 17 February 2023. The event was a great success and we are proud to have contributed to such a worthy cause.

We had two teams of four participants enter into the Ambrose Tournament, including our lucky winners, Grant Prest, Tony Harris & Cam de Burgh. Thank you for coming along and joining our teams!

The APC North Team in white shirts performed admirably, with APC Managing Director Michael hitting the longest drive of the day at around 280m!

The day was filled with lots of fun and healthy competition, it was an amazing opportunity to support a charity that is doing such important work for the amputee and limb different community here in NSW. We are already looking forward to next years event and cannot wait to do it all over again.

APC Graduate Program

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

Are you interested in a guaranteed role upon graduation at one of Australia’s leading prosthetics facilities and $10k towards your final year of study?

We are excited to announce a Graduate Program that offers one successful applicant each year a unique opportunity to gain practical work experience at APC Prosthetics based in one of our facilities in NSW. As a respected leader in Australia, we are committed to continuous learning, application of the latest technologies and evidence-based practice. We aim to make interaction between customers and APC Prosthetics a rewarding experience. Applications to our Graduate Program are now open! Make sure to send through your applications before Friday, 21st October 2022.

Click Image for  Nathan’s Graduate Story

Graduate Program Highlights

  • $10,000 payment towards your final year study costs
  • The successful applicant will complete their University Prosthetic Placement at one of the APC Facilities
  • 2-year fixed contract of employment immediately following successful graduation
  • Targeted mentoring and skill development working with a multidisciplinary team, exposure to a broad range of clients, and with the latest technologies
  • Up to 8 weeks of temporary accommodation at the commencement of the 2-year contract
  • Consideration for ongoing permanent employment at the completion of the Graduate Program

 

Assessment Criteria

  • Review of application & academic results
  • Face-to-face panel interview

Applicant Requirements

  • Penultimate year of the Australian University Prosthetics & Orthotics course
  • Committed to a 2-year fixed-term contract based at one of the APC Facilities in NSW, immediately post-graduation
  • Committed to complete University Prosthetic Placement at one of the APC Facilities in the final year of study
  • An Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Provide a copy of your P&O course academic transcripts
  • Application in your preferred format, i.e. video submission with a resume or resume & cover letter, submitted via email before the deadline.

Email your full application to [email protected], outlining why you believe you should be chosen for this exciting opportunity.

Upcoming Presentations

Third-year students from Latrobe University and second-year students from University of the Sunshine Coast are invited to learn more about APC’s Graduate Program during an upcoming presentation held by APC Branch Manager and Prosthetist, Michael Storey on the following dates:

  • Latrobe University: Monday 26 September 2022.
  • University of the Sunshine Coast: Monday 10 October 2022.

Please contact your university to find out more.

Driving with a Prosthetic Leg

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

Is It Possible?

Many people wonder if it’s possible, driving with a prosthetic leg after undergoing an amputation. Limb loss (amputation) affects the ability to control a vehicle. Depending on upper or lower limb amputation, it can affect usage of the steering wheel, controls or pedals, or even your stability in the vehicle. You must be assessed for the level of impact, which will determine the conditions on your license, any vehicle modifications, or additional training with a rehabilitation driving instructor to enable you to drive. Below is some general information to get you started on the journey to get back on the road.

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Can you Drive with a Prosthetic Leg?

Steps to Take:

It is a legal requirement that you notify the transport authority in your state or territory of any change in medical condition or surgery that affects your driving, including an amputation where you find yourself driving with a prosthetic leg.

The driver licensing authority in each state and territory has slight variations in its policies and standards. The standards apply to private, commercial, light, and heavy vehicles and motorbikes and you may need to complete multiple driving tests.

To be able to drive a vehicle you must complete a variation of the following steps based on your state/territory, see these below.

Make an appointment with your doctor/GP

  • They will need to provide a complete medical record.
  • Fill in any forms from your state/territory authority.
  • You may need additional medical reports from specialists.

Complete off-road assessment

  • Including asking you about your driving and medical history, testing your knowledge of the road rules, and assessing visual, sensory, and thinking abilities.

Complete occupational therapy driving assessment

  • Health professionals such as an accredited occupational therapist assess a patient’s medical fitness to drive to advise the driver licensing authorities about how the patient’s health and medical conditions might affect their driving ability.

(AFTD Guidelines have basic standards for each states process).

User Ability & Car Modifications

Depending on the user’s ability, you can drive a car with the original pedals if you have had a lower limb amputation.

  • You will need to learn how to manoeuvre your limb differently and this may also be dependent on the sensation in your limb for feedback.
  • As you can no longer move your ankle joint you will rely on feedback from your residual limb and proprioception (the feeling of where your limb is in space).

Features of your prosthesis are also important:

  • You should speak to your prosthetist about wanting to drive as they may need to consider this in the componentry used for the prescription of your prosthetic limb.
  • Adaptive equipment can also be installed in many vehicles.
  • Hand-operated brake and accelerator, automatic transmission and height-adjustable seats, etc.
  • Modifications enable many drivers with impairments to operate vehicles safely.
  • Power steering makes driving much easier for upper limb amputees.

License Conditions When Driving with a Prosthetic Leg

You may have a license condition that states you must wear your assistive device, only drive a specific vehicle or you can only drive an automatic vehicle.

Please contact your local state or territory for further information, alternatively, you can contact your state’s amputee association for guidance.

With the joint effort of:

Darrel Sparke, President of Amputees NSW.

APC would like to thank Darrel Sparke, for collaboration in writing this resource article.

Content created and adapted from:

Myoelectric Prosthetics

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

Myoelectric prosthetics (prostheses) differ from other upper limb prosthetic options in the way the terminal device (e.g. hand or hook) is controlled (open and closed). While other styles use harnessing and gross movements of the shoulder, myoelectric prosthetics use the movement of residual limb muscles to control the myoelectric hand. This is done by sensors placed within the socket that detect muscle movements and intuitively create movement at the hand. A benefit of a myoelectric prosthetic device is that they have a much more natural, intuitive way of using moving a prosthetic arm.

There are different types of myoelectric terminal devices that can be used, depending on the needs of the user and their ability to operate the various functions.

Single Grip Terminal Devices

These are simpler myoelectric devices that allow the opening and closing of a single grip position. These could be either a hand or a hook, depending on the users’ needs and requirements. In general, a hand is for lighter-duty activities and a hook would be used in heavier-duty and dirtier environments.myoelectric prosthetics

Multi Grip Devices

These are more sophisticated myoelectric devices that offer multiple grip positions. These always take the form of a hand and use a combination of thumb rotation and varying uses of fingers to allow various grip patterns.Myoelectric hand

Myoelectric Prosthetics Control Strategies

There are different control strategies that can be used in a myoelectric prosthetic arm. These are dependent on the users abilities and available funding.

  • Single Site – as the name suggest this uses a single sensor to detect and initiate movement of the myoelectric hand. this is the simplest form of control
  • Dual site – This uses two sensors to allow voluntary opening and closing of the myoelectric hand. This can also be used to adjust the grip when using multi-grip devices. This is one of the more common control strategies used.
  • Pattern Recognition – This uses a series of up to 8 electrode channels and allows recording/training of muscle movement “patterns” to create the various movements of the multi-grip terminal device. This also allows more intuitive use of powered wrists and elbows.

As with any prosthesis it’s helpful to have a conversation with your prosthetist to figure out what is appropriate for you and suits your needs. Get in touch with our friendly team below through our contact form and we’ll help you in any way we can.

Myoelectric grip options

 

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Diabetic Foot Care

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

Diabetes and How it can Affect the Foot

Diabetes is a serious complex condition that can affect the entire body, more specifically we cover diabetic foot care and how it can affect you. Diabetes requires daily self-care and if complications develop, diabetes can have a significant impact on quality of life and can reduce life expectancy. Your feet are at risk because diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your feet, blood circulation, and infection. Having diabetes can increase your risk of foot ulcers and amputations. This damage is more likely if:

  • You have had diabetes for a long time
  • Your blood glucose levels have been too high for an extended period
  • You smoke – smoking causes a reduced blood flow to your feet, wounds heal slowly
  • You are inactive.

If your diabetic foot develops a wound this is known as an ulcer. If a diabetic foot ulcer is left untreated it can lead to an infection known as osteomyelitis inside the body/bone. Early and accurate diagnosis is necessary to ensure effective treatment and to reduce the likelihood of amputation. Improper diabetic foot care can increase the likelihood of amputation and is 15 times more common to occur in people with diabetes.

Diabetic Foot Care & What to Look out for

  • When you have diabetes, you need to take care of your feet every day
  • Daily care can prevent serious complications
  • Check your feet daily for changes or problems
  • Visit a podiatrist annually for a check-up or more frequently if your feet are at high risk

If you see any of the following- get medical treatment that *day*

  • Ulcer
  • Unusual swelling
  • Redness
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown nail
  • Bruising or cuts

If you see any of the following- get medical treatment within 7 days

  • Broken skin between toes
  • Callus
  • Corn
  • Foot shape changes
  • Cracked skin
  • Nail colour changes

Prosthetic Options

If you have had a partial foot amputation you can have a prosthesis custom made to suit your needs. This can also be called a ‘toe filler’ or bootie. The prosthetic device restores the anatomical shape of the foot and can be designed to reduce pressure and restore balance. Speak to your prosthetist about options best suited to you.

diabetes prosthetic foot option

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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How To Get Into Prosthetics

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

how to get into prosthetics

In order to get into prosthetics and become a Clinical Prosthetist in Australia, clinicians require an accredited degree in the field in conjunction with the optional, yet recommended, membership with the Australian Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA).

In terms of study, there are currently two universities in Australia which offer bachelor’s degrees in Prosthetics and Orthotics: La Trobe University (Victoria) and The University of the Sunshine Coast (Queensland). Both courses feature prosthetic specific subjects as well as the opportunity to undertake clinical placements at Prosthetic and Orthotic facilities across Australia and around the world. University requirements vary and depend on a number of factors such as ATAR, previous study and availability of student positions.

A membership with AOPA is not essential, but highly recommended to work as a Prosthetist in Australia. AOPA is the professional body which regulates prosthetic and orthotic treatment in Australia and ensures its members are regularly up-skilling, exercising best clinical practice and adheres to the standard codes and conducts. AOPA organises an annual conference which features keynote speakers as well as allowing Prosthetists/Orthotists to share and collaborate their work.

Once these requirements and recommendations are met, clinicians are able to get into prosthetics and work as a Prosthetist in an Australian facility. Fortunately, both university degrees are recognised by AOPA and The International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) which give graduates the opportunity to work as a Prosthetist/Orthotist around the world.

In order to get into prosthetics and become a Prosthetic Technician, applicants are encouraged to either reach out directly to prosthetic facilities or search ‘employment opportunities’ section of the AOPA website. There are no official study pathways in Australia to become a prosthetic technician, however, experience with hand tools and attention to detail are skills which are suited to the prosthetic industry. Often many P&O graduates will enter the industry as a prosthetic technician to broaden their skills and gain a more holistic understanding of prosthetics before moving into clinical roles as a Prosthetist.

Most importantly, many prosthetic facilities in Australia are very approachable and willing to provide information on how to get into prosthetics, albeit a Prosthetist or Prosthetic Technician.

For further questions on the various pathways to prosthetics, get in contact with the team at APC Prosthetics today.

For more information about the University Courses click on the links to see what both La Trobe University and The University of the Sunshine Coast have to offer.

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Hunter, we’ve relocated!

Posted on by APC Prosthetics

Come check out our new clinic at Suite 4, 240 Pacific Highway, Charlestown. 

 

Whilst we were looking forward to celebrating the move, we have made a difficult decision to cancel our Grand Opening to keep our patients and staff safe during the recent COVID outbreak.

The new clinic will continue operating using COVID safe practices, and all appointments have resumed as usual from our new location.

We want to thank everyone for their enthusiasm and support in celebrating our relocation and look forward to welcoming you into our new clinic at your next appointment.

Our Hunter Clinic opening hours are Mon – Fri 8:00am – 4:00pm.

If you would like to get in touch with our team at Hunter, contact us at +61 2 4969 8700

To learn more about the new APC Hunter Clinic, click the link to see photos from the event as well as a recap of the grand opening event.

 

 

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