Community Strength and Balance Waikato referral information

Referrals must now be made through alternative pathways outlined below.

Option 1: Community physiotherapy (recommended) refer via community physiotherapy services.

All referrals are triaged and patients are directed to either:

• in-home physiotherapy, or

• community classes.

Option 2: Direct referral form. Send the completed Strength and Balance referral form to: WK-CRC@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz.
Referrals are triaged and forwarded to Community Physiotherapy.

In-home service:

• for patients (generally 70+) who are frail or unable to attend classes

• delivered by physiotherapists

• may involve a waiting list.

Community classes:

• for patients able to attend group programmes

• focus on strength, balance and confidence.

Consider referral for patients who:

• have fallen or are at risk of falling

• are worried about falling

• have reduced activity due to balance concerns

• show reduced strength or mobility.

Eligibility:

• 65+ years (or 50–64 with increased risk)

• living in Waikato

• able to participate (for community classes).

Strong and Stable coordinators can:

• help match patients to suitable classes

• advise on level, location and availability.

Contacts:

• Steph McLennan – 027 419 0068.

• Kasha – 027 227 9151.

• Informal referrals (including email) are accepted.

• Providers will contact patients directly.

• Support available to match patients to appropriate services. 

• Education sessions for practice teams are available on request.

Community classes usually cost $2–$10 per session.