MS Queensland launches its first Neuro Wellness Hub in Milton, providing dedicated services and support for those with neurological conditions.
More than one million or 1 in 4 Queenslanders live with a neurological condition, a disorder that affects the brain, spinal cord, and/or nerves, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s, epilepsy, motor neuron disease (MND), stroke, and many more. It is estimated that only six per cent of these people receive vital support from the NDIS1.
Neurological conditions are in the top five causes of death and top five costs of disease. They are typically lifelong and worsen over time, impacting quality of life by causing severe impairments to physical and/or mental functionality.
The Neuro Wellness Hub is the base from which MS Queensland will deliver essential services such as allied healthcare, employment assistance, and NDIS support coordination to Queensland’s neuro community. These services can also be accessed virtually throughout Queensland.
A main feature of the Hub is its state-of-the-art physio clinic in which leading physiotherapists offer vital support in maintaining mobility and functionality.
David Curd, CEO of MS Queensland, says: “For over 20 years MS Queensland has understood that neurological conditions have many symptoms and support needs in common. As such we have supported Queenslanders with a wide range of conditions – including MS, Parkinson’s epilepsy, MND, stroke, and more. This holistic approach is needed to ensure the Queensland neuro community can access much-needed support. This is the essence of the Neuro Wellness Hub – to welcome with open arms Queenslanders with any neurological conditions that seek support, services, and – perhaps most importantly – human connection in a welcoming and supporting community.”
Rohan Greenland, Chair of the Neurological Alliance Australia and CEO of MS Australia agrees, saying: “Traditionally, neurological conditions have been considered as individual disorders. A more coordinated approach to this group of conditions across the spectrum, from clinical research and through to public health outcomes, will advance our understanding and improve the lives of those living with these disorders.”
The Milton Neuro Wellness Hub is the first of such hubs planned by MS Queensland, with a goal to optimise existing sites to become Neuro Wellness Hubs including Springfield, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and North Brisbane, as well as develop more hubs across Queensland in key regional centres and communities with current and future partners.
The Hub will be officially opened on Tuesday 23 April by Governor Jeanette Young, MS Queensland’s Patron, and representatives from MS Queensland, MS Australia, and the Neurological Alliance Australia.
They will be joined by members of the MS Queensland community, including Paralympian Janine Watson, and Rachel Kerr, who will be recognised with the 2023 John Studdy Award for outstanding services to the MS Community.
The event will also recognise the vital fundraising support of the wider public, whose ongoing support will be crucial in the development of future hubs. Supporters can get involved in a number of ways, including MS Queensland’s flagship fundraising events MS Super Splash (formerly Swimathon), MS Brissie to the Bay, the MS Moonlight Walk, and more.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
