Many people are confused by the differences between a radiographer, radiologist and sonographer. These professionals often work together, but they are not the same.

Radiographers are allied health professionals who take medical images including:

• X-rays

• MRI scans

• CT scans

• Mammograms

• PET scans

These assist doctors in diagnosing, monitoring and treating illnesses and injuries.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government service that provides support to Australian citizens with a disability via support packages, tailored to individual needs.

To access the NDIS, participants must have a permanent impairment that significantly affects their ability to be involved in everyday activities or have a developmental delay as well as being under 65 in a NDIS specified zone.

Spinal manipulation is a technique where medical practitioners use their hands to apply a controlled thrust to a joint of your spine. Spinal manipulation entails high-velocity, low-amplitude manual thrusts to spinal joints that extend slightly beyond their physiological range of motion.

Manipulation reduces pain in the spine and joints, increasing range of motion. It resets the position of the spinal cord and nerves, allowing the nervous system to function optimally and improve the body's biomechanical functioning.

Osteopathy is one of ten regulated healthcare professions in Australia. Osteopathic philosophy gives a holistic approach to health and stresses the importance of the musculoskeletal system in a person’s health and well-being.

The aim of treatment is to support the body’s self-healing capacity, managing:

• Neck and back pain

• Arthritis

• Sciatica

• Headaches and Vertigo

• And More…

Complementary therapies are used alongside conventional medicines or treatments. Examples of complementary therapies include: 

• Acupuncture

• Allergist

• Aromatherapy

• Electrologist

• Herbalist

• Homeopath

• Hydropath

• Hypnotherapy

• Kinesiology

Speech pathologists’ study, diagnose and treat communication disorders, including difficulties with:

• Speaking

• Listening

• Understanding language

• Reading and Writing

• Social skills

• Stuttering and using voice

• Swallowing food and drink safely

It is important to know the different services that offer assistance to those struggling with their mental health and the risks entailed for each professional.  

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who have completed specialised training in how to diagnose, treat and prevent mental, emotional and behavioural disorders, providing:

• Diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention of mental health issues.

• Talk-based therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

• Prescribing appropriate medication.

The NDIS provides the necessary funding to people with a permanent and significant disability so they can access the supports and services they need. Providers are an important part of the NDIS, delivering supports and services that help participants pursue their goals.

Every NDIS recipient has an individual plan that lists their desired outcomes, the supports they will use and the funding they have received. Providers are one of the main contact points for NDIS recipients.

Allied health professionals provide essential care for people of all ages including children, elderly, people with chronic illnesses and those experiencing disability, to enhance and maintain functions within a range of settings, including:

• Hospitals

• Private Practice

• Community Health

• In-Home Care

Medical Malpractice is designed to provide an insurance solution for healthcare professionals. It protects an insured against claims for compensation arising from the provision of medical services.

At Fairlight insurance, our wide product offering includes Medical Malpractice, liability and errors and omissions.