Meet Emma, one of our talented Health and Well-Living Consultants based in Orange. 

Emma’s clinical background in physiotherapy, coupled with her gentle and dedicated approach to client care have set a new standard of excellence in the Central West team. 

Health and Well-Living consultancy - unpacking the role

“As part of my role as a Health and Well-Living Consultant, I visit older clients in their homes and conduct health and well-living assessments,” says Emma. 

“These are incredibly comprehensive assessments, examining every aspect of a person’s life. We work out preventative treatments that will help them to retain their independence for the foreseeable future, and ultimately – enhance their quality of life.”

The role is unique, and, as Emma explains, a proud point of difference for BaptistCare at home, with no other local provider offering the same service. 

The assessment results in a comprehensive report, created in partnership with the client and their family. This includes recommendations for coordinating multidisciplinary care tailored to the person’s individual care needs. 

This might involve physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dieticians, podiatrists, and nurses. Emma oversees it all, checking in regularly to ensure her client is benefitting as planned. 

“In our line of work, prevention is always better than cure,” says Emma. “We want to keep people out of hospital and living their best life at home.” 

The journey into aged care 

Having originally graduated as a physiotherapist, Emma has worked in many different role types, including private practice, community outreach, and of course - aged care. 

The location has always been the constant.

“Orange has been my home since I was nine years old,” she says. “Working in the regions means there is variety in the work, and you can gain a lot of experience from early on in your career.” 

Emma believes that aged care provides extensive opportunities to make a significant impact on someone's life.

“In private practice, you’re often treating an isolated issue or a specific injury. Once it’s resolved, the person often moves on,” Emma explains. 

“But in aged care, you’re focusing on every aspect of a person’s life – their day-to-day functioning, their social connections, their living environment, and so much more. You really see that person’s whole life begin to change and transform for the better over time – and that’s a direct result of the care you’ve given them. It really doesn’t get more rewarding than that.”

Recognition and reward

Emma’s passion and talents were recently highlighted at the national BaptistCare Shine Awards, particularly for her work on the innovative Short Term Restorative Care Program - an 8-week rehabilitation course for older people that is supported with government funding. 

“I helped roll out the program in this region two years ago,” Emma says. “It’s a truly life-changing service for people that have recently experienced a decline in their day-to-day functioning.”

“It’s about supporting them with intensive reablement and rehabilitation.” 

Emma’s unwavering commitment to the program has been instrumental in the program’s success, resulting in her being awarded the prestigious BaptistCare Shine Award at a special ceremony held in the Blue Mountains. 

Emma receives the prestigious BaptistCare National Shine Award from BaptistCare CEO, Charles Moore. 

Empowered by great leadership       

Emma says that one of the best parts of her role here at BaptistCare is the coaching and mentorship she has received from her leaders – both professionally and personally. 

“My managers are phenomenal mentors and have made a huge difference to my life,” she says. 

“As well as supporting me with my work-life balance after returning from maternity leave, they’ve given me so much confidence and encouragement to take on new opportunities – such as the Short-Term Restorative Care Program.”

Emma poses with her manager, who she says has been a constant support for her both personally and professionally the last few years.

Emma says the team culture is all about trust, flexibility, and support, which makes for a truly special working environment.

“People just flourish here,” she says. “I’ve told my manager, I’m never leaving BaptistCare!” 

Family adventures 

Outside of work, Emma leads a full life, balancing time with her two young children – aged just one and three - and embarking on camping adventures with her family. 

“Camping and adventuring as always been our passion,” says Emma. “Before kids, my husband and I travelled around Australia, sleeping in a rooftop tent! We saw so much of the country, it was amazing. 

“Our caravan adventures these days may not be as extensive but we have a beautiful time as a family all the same.” 

Emma has also just got back into Division 1 netball, which she says has been a shock to the body but great fun.  

Emma’s tip for ageing well?

Emma says it’s about being proactive in planning your future care and reaching out for the many available supports. 

“Don’t wait for things to go wrong – prevention is key, and you’ll likely live a full and independent life for far longer if you take this approach.” 

Learn more about the BaptistCare family and explore our current opportunities via the links below.