Lymphoedema management is a specialised field that requires in-depth knowledge, experience, and appropriate qualifications to ensure you receive the best possible care and lasting results. At Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions, we pride ourselves on providing premium, evidence-based treatment to clients on the Central Coast.
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the right lymphoedema therapist.
Experience and Expertise
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a lymphoedema specialist is their level of experience. Kate Perkins, a highly qualified Cancer Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist and Lymphoedema Therapist, boasts over a decade of experience in the field. Her commitment to patient care has established her as a leading practitioner. Kate is the founder of Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions, Coastal Rehab Hub, and the Bounce Back From Breast Cancer Program.
Additionally, she co-founded OncoLaser™, an innovative system that integrates Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) using MLS® Laser Therapy to address cancer treatment side effects such as pain, inflammation, and lymphoedema.
Kate is an accredited practitioner who has completed the ALERT foundation course by Macquarie University, endorsed by the Australian Lymphology Association (ALA). Her hands-on knowledge and experience include advanced skills such as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage, prescription of compression garments, and advanced compression bandaging systems. Kate has also completed numerous postgraduate courses, including “Management of Wounds in People with Chronic Oedemas” and “Lymphoedema Practice for the Head and Neck Region“. With these qualifications, Kate ensures her patients receive cutting-edge care tailored to their individual needs.
Kate’s additional certifications include:
- PINC & STEEL Cancer Rehabilitation
- Head and Neck Lymphoedema Therapist
- Contemporary Evidence in Lymphoedema Management (for Advanced Practitioners)
She has presented globally as a key opinion leader and is frequently invited to share her expert insights, most recently at the PBM 2024 Conference in London and the Illuminate and Alleviate: MLS Laser in Action Conference in Melbourne. Her presentations focus on minimising the side effects of radiation and chemotherapy, underscoring her commitment to advancing supportive cancer care.
With over a decade of experience, Kate has built her reputation as a leading practitioner through her hands-on approach and dedication to integrated care, working closely with local health referrers and leveraging the latest technologies.
Qualifications Matter
When selecting a therapist, it is essential to verify their qualifications. Lymphoedema management is not simply a form of massage therapy but involves complex treatment strategies, including manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression garment fittings, and medical laser therapy for faster recovery outcomes. Kate Perkins, Central Coast lymphoedema specialist, is a certified Lymphoedema Occupational Therapist with a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Occupational Therapy from the University of Sydney and over 10 years’ hands-on experience. Her holistic approach is proven to reduce pain, inflammation, and accelerate recovery.
At Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions, we ensure that our patients receive expert, evidence-based care from fully qualified practitioners. As a specialised Lymphoedema Occupational Therapist (OT), Kate Perkins offers a level of care that adheres to the highest gold standards set by the Australian Lymphology Association (ALA). Only Lymphoedema Occupational Therapists or Physiotherapists are authorised to prescribe and measure compression garments, which means Kate can provide an integrated, evidence-based approach, ensuring that every aspect of your lymphoedema management is handled by an experienced professional without the need for external supervision.
Integrated Care and Referrals
Effective lymphoedema management often requires a multidisciplinary approach. At Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions, we work closely with local health referrers – oncologists, GPs, and specialists – to ensure patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care. Through Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plans, patients can access Medicare rebates for cancer rehabilitation and lymphoedema services.
Additionally, Kate collaborates with specialists to ensure patients are receiving the most advanced treatments possible. Whether it’s through EnableNSW Compression Garment Funding or integrated therapies, our clinic is committed to offering accessible and personalised care.
Premium, Trusted Care
We have earned a reputation for delivering premium care and proven results at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions. We set the standard for lymphoedema treatment on the Central Coast by offering Oncolaser™ treatment for faster outcomes, reducing the risk of chronic swelling, and enhancing quality of life for our patients. With a foundation built on trust, experience, and the most advanced technology, we ensure that every patient receives the best possible care.
Kate is supported by an expert team of professionals, including Caitlin Hobday, specialised Occupational Therapist and accredited Lymphoedema Therapist with extensive training in Lymphoedema Therapy at Macquarie University, and Michelle Miller, our experienced medical receptionist who is also a trained fitness & dance instructor providing support through group exercise classes.
We also integrate advanced technologies like OncoLaser™, SOZO, and LymphaTech limb volume scanning technology to enhance the quality of care we offer.
Your Central Coast Lymphoedema Specialist
When it comes to lymphoedema treatment, experience and expertise make all the difference. Kate Perkins and the team at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions are committed to providing established, trusted, and comprehensive care. By choosing a highly qualified specialist, you are investing in your health and ensuring long-term, effective results.
If you or someone you know is living with lymphoedema or recovering from cancer treatment, get in touch with us today. Our team is here to support you with expert guidance, proven techniques, and the most advanced technologies available.
Contact us now to begin your recovery with Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions – the Central Coast’s leading lymphoedema experts.