Althea Wellness Centre
The Althea Wellness Centre is a program of DIRECTIONS ACT, which is funded through the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.
DIRECTIONS ACT has developed a primary and secondary health centre as part of its ongoing commitment to better health outcomes for people with Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug (ATOD) issues. The Althea Wellness Centre is a small clinic which is based on holistic health principles and is situated at the Woden office.
In 2007 DIRECTIONS ACT conducted a survey in which 200 people responded favorably to the concept of a primary health centre being opened, with over 90% of clients stating that they would use the centre if it was established. The results of that survey were analysed and a number of organisations were approached to develop partnerships with DIRECTIONS ACT to provide services into the clinic.
We believe that good health care is a fundamental human right
We believe people are capable of making life changing decisions
We believe that crisis provides opportunity for growth
We believe in promoting respect and dignity for all
We believe that people have control of their lives
We believe people can overcome addiction
We believe in harm minimisation
Althea Wellness Centre
.....a place of healing
GP Clinic – Primary Health Care
Access Criteria:
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug using person
- Or immediate family. For example: partner or child of an existing DIRECTIONS ACT client
- Does not already have a General Practitioner (GP)
- Wants continuing care through the clinic
- Emergency or brief intervention
Althea Wellness Centre has a GP who is available for sessions on a Monday. The Althea Wellness Centre is available to all people with ATOD issues, existing DIRECTIONS ACT clients, and their families. A Triage Nurse will assist each new client and take their details prior to the appointment with the GP.
The GP clinic bulk bills people with Healthcare cards through Medicare and charges a small fee for those who do not have these cards, in addition to the Medicare Fee. People should bring their Healthcare and Medicare cards with them.
Appointments
The clinic operates on an appointment system, it is important, therefore, that people inform us if a longer appointment time is necessary and notify us as soon as possible if they are unable to attend.
Secondary Health Care
The clinic works in a partnership approach with other agencies and organisations to deliver excellence in health and allied health services, so that people are treated with respect and dignity while accessing health services. These clinics include:
- Psychologist Clinics
- Naturopath and Herbalist
- Treatment Support Service
- Hepatitis C Wellness Clinic
- Mental Health Clinic
- Smoke Free Clinic
- Legal Aid
- Centrelink
- Alcohol and Drug Service (ACT Health)
- Mental Health Support
Althea Wellness Centre Clinics are a free or low cost service. For instance a small fee is charged for naturopathic services, to assist with the cost of the medicines. Some other clinics may require a Medicare card.
Bookings 6122 8080
Bookings are essential as we do not offer a drop in facility.
Located:
DIRECTIONS ACT
1 Bradley Street (within the Woden bus interchange)
Woden ACT 2606
Reception times:
9am to 5pm Monday to Friday
Brochures
Video of the Althea Launch WIN News Story: