The latest government data suggests 19 per cent of participants experienced an injury while playing sport with collision-heavy codes such as AFL and Rugby having more than double the hospitalisation rate of any other recreational sport. Despite these risks, only 36 per cent of Australians wear a mouthguard when playing contact sport, and even fewer wear a mouthguard during training.^[2]

Dr Mark Dohlad, Principal Dental Officer at Bupa Dental, said the start of the junior sport season is a critical moment for parents, warning that many children begin training and games without adequate mouth protection, often using mouthguards that no longer fit.

“Kids’ mouths grow and change quickly, which means a mouthguard that fitted last season may not offer the protection parents assume it does. Too often dentists see preventable injuries occur early in the season or at training, when mouthguards are forgotten or a poorly fitting one shifts on impact, leaving teeth, jaws and soft tissue exposed.”

Dr Dohlad said properly fitted, custom‑made mouthguards remain the most effective defence against sports injuries such as fractured teeth, broken jaws and painful lacerations to the tongue or cheek resulting from impact or inadvertent biting during contact sports.

“While over‑the‑counter ‘boil and bite’ mouthguards are better than nothing, they simply don’t provide the same level of coverage or stability. They’re more likely to loosen or fall out during play, particularly in fast‑moving sports like football, rugby or basketball.

Professionally fitted mouthguards are designed around a player’s individual bite by a dentist, helping them stay firmly in place during both games and training. That fit and quality makes a real difference to confidence on the field and gives parents peace of mind knowing their child has appropriate protection, not just something that looks like protection,” Dr Dohlad said.

Bupa Health Insurance members with eligible Extras cover who attend participating Members First Ultimate clinics can also get 100 per cent back on standard fitted mouthguards across Bupa’s national network of practices^[3].

“Getting fitted is simple, painless and starts with a short visit for a scan or impression, kids can choose their team colours and a follow‑up appointment ensures the mouthguard fits comfortably and securely… Once that’s taken care of, players can just focus on enjoying the game!” Dr Dohlad said.

For more information about Bupa Members First Ultimate initiative, visit here.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

^{[1] Sports injury in Australia, Causes of sports injuries - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
[2] Mouthguards - Australian Dental Association NSW
[3] In relation to Members First Ultimate dental benefits available to eligible Bupa members, further information can be found here. Benefits will only apply to 1 fitted mouthguard per person and per calendar year. Waiting periods, benefit claiming restrictions, and fund and policy rules apply}

The 2026 program marks the very first time the Graduate Program has been extended to oral health therapists in keeping with Bupa’s ongoing commitment to supporting the dental industry as a whole. As part of the Dental and OHT programs, participants will be paired with a dedicated mentor and have the opportunity to develop their skills across Bupa Dental Care’s national network of 175 practices nationwide.

Bupa Dental Care Director, Guneet Sawhney said the program is crafted to equip emerging dentists and OHTs with all the resources they need to forge a rewarding and impactful career in dentistry.

“At Bupa Dental Care, we are deeply invested in the professional growth of our graduates who will shape the future of the industry in their own right. This means delivering interactive training that encompasses clinical practice, financial management, leadership and community impact.

“Mentorship is at the heart of our approach. Our experienced dentists and OHTs are committed to guiding, teaching, and supporting graduates, tailoring their advice to each individuals’ interests and goals. The program’s flexibility ensures that guidance is both practical and meaningful,” said Guneet.

Understanding the value of flexibility and professional development, the program also offers dentists and OHTs the opportunity to work at different locations during the program, the opportunity to attend three in-person CPD workshops and access to Bupa’s industry-leading digital clinical tools.

“We know that administrative and non-clinical duties can be daunting for new graduates. That’s why our support team handles these tasks, allowing graduates to focus on patient care while honing their clinical skills,” said Guneet.

Graduate dentists interested in the 2026 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Dentist Program (6 or 12 months) can express their interest here.

Graduate Oral health therapists interested in the 2026 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Oral Health Therapist Program (12 months) can express their interest here.

Today, almost half of Australian children’s energy intake is made up of ultra-processed foods,^[1] with research from the CSIRO suggesting ultra-processed food consumption in Australia will increase by 20 per cent over the next 5 years.

Bupa Dental Principal Dentist Dr Mark Dohlad said modern diets, rich in soft, processed foods and lacking chewy and tough foods, may be contributing to smaller jaws and potentially affecting tooth development. Additionally, a lack of essential nutrients in a child's diet can hinder proper tooth development, including the timing of baby teeth loss and the eruption of adult teeth.

“Over recent times, our dentists are seeing more missing or undeveloped teeth amongst children and adults with gum disease which can lead to tooth loss.

“While a solid oral health routine that includes twice daily brushing, flossing and regular dental visits are essential to maintaining a healthy smile, people also need to prioritise a healthy diet that includes proteins and vegetables that require actual chewing,” Dr Dohlad said.

CSIRO data suggests that by 2030, our diets will comprise almost 10 per cent less fruit, and around 18 per cent more junk food,[1] with separate Bupa research suggesting Aussies believe nutrition is less than half as impactful as fitness when it comes to maintaining optimal health and wellbeing^[3].    

“Your oral health is closely linked to your general wellbeing, with gum disease, infections and untreated cavities being linked to heart disease, dementia and even depression in the case of people who don’t feel comfortable smiling which shows their teeth.

“The important thing to remember is not to revamp your diet and oral health routine on your own. Speak to your friendly local dentists about the best steps you can take that suit your lifestyle and unique health requirements. A few simple tweaks can make all the difference.

To help with cost-of living concerns, eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers get 100% back on check-ups and simple dental fillings when visiting Bupa Members First Ultimate practices^[4].

To find your nearest Bupa Dental practice visit here.

^{[1] Half of your kid’s food might be ultra-processed and that’s a problem
[2] Fresh fruit down, junk food up: our modelling suggests Australians’ diets will get worse by 2030 - CSIRO
[4] PowerPoint Presentation
[3] With eligible Dental Extras cover. Select direct restoration and general fillings only. Benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, yearly limits, fund and policy rules apply. Available on all Extras products with general dental at Members First Ultimate Providers. Not available in all areas.}

This comes amidst research from Bupa^[2] which suggests just 52 per cent of adults had regular health checks such as dental check-ups which play a big role in addressing small problems before they spiral into a situation requiring hospitalisation. Potentially preventable hospitalisations are conditions where the hospitalisation may have been prevented through preventative care at home or treatment in settings like GPs and dentists.

Bupa Dental Principal Dentist, Dr Mark Dohlad, said skipping or avoiding visits to the dentist increases the risk of small issues spiralling into major oral and general health conditions.

“A visit to the dentist involves a whole lot more than a simple clean and cavity check, we also look for signs of oral cancer, oral infections and a range of other conditions that can have a significant impact on your general health if not addressed early.

“Many Aussies are also rushing to the emergency ward as a first resort for dental issues rather than consulting their dentist, many of whom can provide emergency treatment on short notice or provide relevant referrals or advice,” Dr Dohlad said.

Data from the Australian Dental Association suggests seniors, who are most vulnerable to health issues, make fewer trips to the dentist than the rest of the population with cost the most common barrier^[3].

“In recent times we have worked hard to address cost of living concerns, with eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers getting 100% back on check-ups and simple dental fillings when visiting Bupa Members First Ultimate practices^[4].

“As we move into the second half of the year, it’s definitely time to take stock of your health and book in that dental check-up if you haven’t already. A visit to the dentist today could save you a painful visit to the hospital later on,” Dr Dohlad said.

Bupa is also a provider for the government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), a Government-funded program^[5] that provides up to $1,132 for basic dental services for eligible children aged 0-17 over two calendar years to access basic dental services such as examinations, x-rays, cleaning, fillings and extractions.

To find your nearest Bupa Dental practice visit here.

^{[1] Potentially preventable hospitalisations - Hospitals - AIHW
[2] PowerPoint Presentation
[3] Survey finds seniors' oral health worse than the rest of the nation | Australian Dental Association
[4] With eligible Dental Extras cover. Select direct restoration and general fillings only. Benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, yearly limits, fund and policy rules apply. Available on all Extras products with general dental at Members First Ultimate Providers. Not available in all areas.
[5] Who can get the Child Dental Benefits Schedule - Child Dental Benefits Schedule - Services Australia
[6] Potentially preventable hospitalisations - Hospitals - AIHW}

Dr Cathryn Madden, Head Dentist at Bupa Dental said a properly fitted mouthguard is a players’ best defence against serious sports injuries like broken jaws, fractured teeth and even lacerated tongues which can be involuntarily bitten during an unexpected hit.

“Whilst less expensive over-the-counter boil and bite mouthguards are certainly better than zero protection, they run a significantly higher risk of being dislodged or not protecting all essential areas which increases the risk of sustaining a serious injury for players.

“A custom-made mouthguard will be designed to fit a player’s individual mouth shape and dimensions providing a player with the protection they need on game day or training and a parent with valuable peace of mind when watching from the sidelines,” Cathryn said. 

Bupa Health Insurance members with eligible Extras cover who attend participating Bupa Dental Members First Ultimate clinics will also receive a no-gap experience on standard fitted mouthguards across its national network of practices.

“Once you have your mouthguard sorted, you can focus more on enjoying the game and all the physical and mental benefits that comes with being involved in community sport.

“All it takes is a short visit to your friendly local dental clinic to get a scan or impression of your teeth and choose your favourite team colours for the mouthguard before a subsequent visit to ensure the mouthguard fits firmly and comfortably,” Cathryn said.

For more information about Bupa Members First Ultimate initiative, visit here.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

^{[1] MEDIA RELEASE - SMA’s national concussion poster campaign}

^{[2] Head injury assessment in youth men's rugby league players: An evaluation of game play characteristics and video review of potential concussion signs - ScienceDirect}

^{[3] Mouthguards a must as dental injuries are on the rise - Australian Dental Association NSW}

The report, which draws on clinical experience in Australia and around the world, provides practical, actionable steps to make Healthcare more sustainable whilst highlighting the need for further research into the health and environmental impacts of single-use materials. Today, healthcare generates 4.4% of global emissions and creates millions of tonnes of waste per year^[2] with a great proportion of that waste coming from SUIs^[3].

Roger Sharp, Bupa Asia Pacific, Chief Sustainability & Corporate Affairs Officer said climate change is a major threat to human health, and we can’t escape the fact that the healthcare sector is part of this problem.

“There is an urgent need to tackle the waste that the healthcare industry generates – particularly that from single-use items - and this report aims to increase visibility of the issue, spotlight organisations making positive progress, and showcase solutions that are currently available.

In recent times this has included switching plastic medicine pots to a stainless-steel alternatives in our New Zealand Aged Care homes and partnering with eco-Disruptive start-up, Cassava Bags to utilise their 100 per cent biodegradable cassava root material products such as headrests and tray sleeves in Bupa’s Australian dental practices.

Gary Cohen, President and Co-founder of Health Care Without Harm, said working together with Bupa, we remain committed to educate the healthcare sector about the overuse of single-use items, especially plastics, and provide leadership for why reduction is both possible and financially efficient around the world.

“The report is a first step in this essential process to help healthcare come into greater alignment with its ethical mission to first, do no harm,” Gary said.

For healthcare providers, some of the key recommendations include reviewing organisational waste policies, processes, and infrastructure, auditing suppliers and partnering for sustainable innovation

The report also outlines the benefits of commissioning research and sharing insights, such the work Monash Sustainable Development Institute is undertaking through the Transitions to Sustainable Health Systems consortium, of which Bupa is a member, to identify priorities and practical actions to accelerate emissions reduction in the Australian health system. Bupa UK has also recently announced a partnership with the University of Manchester to develop new methods and strategies to reduce the healthcare sector’s environmental impact.

Please see here for a link to the report.

Please see here for further information on Bupa APAC’s sustainability initiatives.

<sup>[1] Plastics in healthcare: time for a re-evaluation - PMC

[2] The Road Map | Health Care Climate Action</sup>

^{[3] Is Green the New Blue? NHS Sustainable Development Institute}

As fate would have it, she was on the phone with Bupa telehealth nurse, Kirsten, who’d called to check in on Leonore after a recent hospital stay.

The 88-year-old says she owes her life to the former intensive care nurse, who recognised Leonore was having a stroke , called for an ambulance, and made sure she stayed on the line until help arrived.

In an emotional reunion, Leonore and Kirsten recount what happened, drawing comfort in the fact fate had connected them on that day – and admit it may have had a very different outcome.

Leonore’s story

“I remember Kirsten saying, there's something wrong. You need help, I'll call an ambulance.”

“I have to say there was no warning whatsoever. Not a headache, nothing to pre-warn me. Nothing unusual about it.”

“I remember I got a phone call and as I answered it, I was sitting down, comfortable and relaxed, talking to this lovely lady from Bupa who was calling to see how I was after being in hospital.”

“We're having a lovely chat, but it didn't last very long. My voice just went a little bit strange and then I found it was really, really difficult to talk.”

“I was making the noise but they weren't forming into words.”

“My children will vouch for you that I'm pretty good talker usually.”

“I remember Kirsten saying, there's something wrong. You need help, I'll call an ambulance.”

“I was wearing my emergency bracelet, so I pressed that too which brought our village manager down and she sat with me and held my hand.”

“Kirsten stayed on the phone and kept talking to me and kept me calm, which was really wonderful to have her voice all the time. To have a nurse on the phone as it was happening, I am absolutely blessed. 100% blessed.”

“If I’d been by myself, I probably wouldn’t have called for help.”

“At hospital, an MRI showed I’d had a small stroke. I was cleared within a week to come home, which is what I really wanted to do.”

“I’m not ready to leave this earth yet, too many good things happening in life. Especially when there's a lot of little younger ones in the family, we've got to be around for them.”

“It's just that I would love to thank everybody that was around on that particular moment in life to help me. I think the quicker you get treatment or anything like that, the better it's going to before you later off down the line.”

“If you feel there's something not quite right, just get help straight away and be perhaps a little bit alert if you've got something that you feel isn't quite feeling right in your head.”

Kirsten’s story

“I remember just talking to Leonore to reassure her I was there, to stay on the line and help was on the way.”

 “I've been nursing for nearly 20 years now, mostly in hospitals and in intensive care units.”

“I think you learn over time that when you are in an emergency situation, it's very rarely a straight line. It's very rarely textbook. You have to critically think, and problem solve your way through it, and I know through experience, you have to stay really calm to do that effectively.”

“Leonore’s was a routine call that was part of Bupa’s Recovery Support Program, where we reach out to our customers within a few days of coming home from hospital. We’re there to make sure they’ve got all the information and support they need for a safe recovery at home.”

“We'd been talking and having such a clear conversation, then when Lenore suddenly became quite confused. I knew that something was really wrong - I was immediately very concerned,”

“I initiated our emergency procedure, and it became obvious we needed to get her urgent help, as her speech continued to deteriorate.”

“I kept talking to Leonore to see if this had happened before. However, she became more and more confused. I reassured her I was getting an ambulance and asked her to press her emergency button. I remember just talking to Leonore to reassure her I was there, to stay on the line and help was on the way.”

“We hear a lot about strokes these days and what signs should people look out for. As with Leonore, people have changes in their speech or become confused and not be able to finish a sentence.”

“Time is very important. You need to get that person help straight away.”

The emotional reunion 

Leonore and Kirsten meet face to face for the first time

“I’m in debt for you for the rest of my life.”

Leonore: How incredible to meet the voice at the other end. Darling, it’s so good to see you. I’ve wanted to hug you so many times. That was such a special moment in our lives. You are just meant to ring at that time Our stars were aligned, weren’t they? I’m in debt for you for the rest of my life, you realise that. Your voice gave me that feeling of “don’t worry”. You had that positiveness that it’ll be ok.

 Kirsten:

It was so lucky that I was able to be with you at that time and support you. I’m so grateful I was able to be there with you and am grateful you are now okay. To see you  now, in person, and be able to connect face to face has been really incredible. I wouldn't call myself a hero. I think, you show up as a health professional and you’re here to help people. I was just doing my job.

 Learn more about the signs of stroke and how Bupa’s supporting stroke survivors, like Leonore.

Bupa Health Services Clinical Director Dr Tony MacDermott said busy Australians were looking to get more value out of their healthcare appointments even if they were leaving it until the last minute.

“In recent times we have worked hard to address cost of living concerns, with eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers^[2] getting 100% back on simple dental fillings when visiting Bupa Members First Ultimate practices. This has saved members around $14 million in out-of-pocket savings this year alone.”

“We’ve also boosted our offerings within our optical stores which are now equipped with Artificial Intelligence enabled eye tests that can now detect signs of heart disease, diabetes and a range of other select conditions… thus providing a more holistic healthcare experience from a standard eye test,” Dr MacDermott said.

Dental and Optical are the most common claims in December with people booking eye tests, purchasing new glasses and sunglasses or getting their yearly dental check-ups ticked off. Data from Bupa Optical suggest sales spike 54 per cent compared to other months.

“Along with booking in summer holidays and end of year parties, December is a timely reminder to book in those appointments you might have missed or delayed during the year,”

”It’s also a good time to review your health insurance policy to ensure it’s still relevant to your current health and wellbeing needs,” Dr MacDermott said.

To find your nearest Bupa Dental practice visit here.

To find your nearest Bupa Optical store visit here.

^{[1] PowerPoint Presentation}

^{[2] With eligible Dental Extras cover. Select direct restoration and general fillings only. Benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, yearly limits, fund and policy rules apply. Available on all Extras products with general dental at Members First Ultimate Providers. Not available in all areas.}

Bupa Dental Principal Dentist Dr Mark Dohlad said it was a concern people were avoiding the dentist until an emergency like a painful cavity or hadn’t resumed their normal health routines since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Going to the dentist involves much more than just a routine cleaning and cavity check, it's also an opportunity to detect early signs of oral cancer, infections, and various other conditions that could significantly affect your wellbeing if not identified and treated promptly,” Dr Dohlad said.

“Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in Australia, and while the causes of this are linked to factors including diet, oral health routines and family history, there is little doubt that missing regular dental check-ups is a major factor in this growing public health issue.”

Cost and lack of motivation remain the biggest barriers to Australians’ health and wellbeing, according to the national Bupa Pulse Check survey of 2,000 Aussies^[1], with women reporting a higher rate of barriers than men.

To help address cost concerns, Bupa Health Insurance members with eligible Extras cover who attend participating Bupa Dental clinics receive a no-gap experience across 15 common dental including two 6-monthly check-ups, fillings and fitted mouthguards^[2].

“By focusing on prevention and breaking down cost barriers, our aim is to help people keep their teeth and gums healthy which plays a major role in their general health. Poor gum health in particular is a major influencer for cardiac conditions, pre-term low birthweight babies and diabetes,” Dr Dohlad said.

To book an appointment at your nearest Bupa Dental practice visit here.
 

<sup>[1] Data from Bupa’s Members First Ultimate dental practices where Bupa Health Insurance members had fillings between April and June 2024 as compared to the first quarter of 2024.

[2]  Data from Bupa’s Members First Ultimate dental practices where Bupa Health Insurance members had fillings between April and June 2024 as compared to the first quarter of 2024.

[1] PowerPoint Presentation (bupa.com.au)</sup>

^{[2] Pay nothing for check-ups at some Bupa Dental clinics}

Dr Mark Dohlad, Bupa Dental's Principal Dental Officer, said that many of these hospitalisations may have been avoided if the children had received regular dental check-ups and treatment from an early age.

“Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease amongst children^[2], which if left untreated, can lead to serious infections, ongoing pain and unfortunately a visit to the hospital that may have been avoided with good oral hygiene, healthy eating habits and regular visits to the dentist," Dr Dohlad said.

"Dentists can help identify and treat dental problems before they become severe and require hospital admission. They can also provide education and advice on how to maintain good oral health and prevent future problems. By taking children to the dentist regularly, you aren’t only protecting their teeth and gums, but also helping to reduce the demand for hospital services, which are already under strain.”

With many Australians tightening household budgets in the current cost-of-living environment, initiatives are available to help families get their oral health back on track. This includes Bupa’s Members First Ultimate proposition which enables members who hold eligible Bupa Extras cover that includes General Dental and attend participating Bupa Dental clinics to receive 100% back on dental services such as two six-monthly dental check-ups and cleans (outside of yearly limits)^[3], and general dental fillings (within yearly limits)^[4].

Bupa also supports the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), a Government-funded program^[5] that provides up to $1,095 for basic dental services for eligible children aged 2-17 over two calendar years to access basic dental services such as examinations, x-rays, cleaning, fillings and extractions. The CDBS can be accessed through private dental providers such as Bupa Dental.

"As a health and care company, we are committed to improving the oral health of Australians, especially children, who are at a higher risk of developing dental problems.

“We encourage parents to take advantage of these no out of these products to ensure their children receive the best possible care for their teeth and gums, especially because poor oral health in childhood is the strongest predictor of further dental disease in adulthood," Dr Dohlad said.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.
 

^{[1] Oral_Health_Tracker_Child.pdf (ada.org.au)
[2] 1 in 4 Australian children have untreated tooth decay: study - Rethink Sugary Drinks
[3] You can receive 100% back on dental check-up and cleans (select dental items only) once every 6 months at Members First Ultimate Providers. Waiting periods, benefit claiming restrictions, policy and fund rules apply. Excludes orthodontics and in-hospital treatments. Available on all eligible Extras products which includes General Dental (excluding FLEXtras and Your Choice Extras 60 where general dental is not included). If you choose or require any additional dental services, any health insurance benefits will also be subject to your yearly limits. Members First Ultimate providers are not available in all areas.
[4] You can receive 100% back on direct restorations or fillings (select dental items only), up to yearly limits, at Members First Ultimate Providers. Waiting periods, benefit claiming restrictions, policy and fund rules apply. Benefits are payable up to yearly limits or on available remaining limits in relation to your product. Some out of pocket costs may apply if a claim exceeds your yearly limits. Excludes orthodontics and in-hospital treatments. Available on all eligible Extras products which includes General Dental (excluding Simple Start – Basic Plus, OSHC Extras, FLEXtras and Your Choice Extras 60 where General Dental is not included). If you choose or require any additional dental services, an out-of-pocket cost may apply. Members First Ultimate providers are not available in all areas.
[5] Who can get the Child Dental Benefits Schedule - Child Dental Benefits Schedule - Services Australia}

From 1 November 2023, members with eligible Extras cover who attend participating Bupa Dental clinics will also receive a no-gap experience across 15 common dental services such as twice-yearly check-ups, X-Rays and fitted mouthguards^[i] across its national network of 148 practices^[ii].

The initiative is aimed at providing relief against ongoing household budget challenges while also encouraging preventive dental care.

Today’s announcement comes amidst research from the Australian Dental Association (ADA) suggesting one in three Australian adults have untreated tooth decay along with one in nine children. Bupa Dental practices performed more than 169,000 general fillings in 2022.

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Chris Carroll said the initiative would save members money with the average cost of a general dental filling costing $220 in 2022, according to the ADA.

“We’re always looking at ways to help our members get more value from their private health insurance and we expect this will be a welcome offer, especially given the ongoing cost of living climate,” Mr Carroll said.

“As a healthcare partner, our focus is on supporting the health and wellbeing of our members and I’m pleased we’re able to increase member access to gap-free experiences.”

Dental is the most common extras service used with 1.66 million Bupa members making a claim so far this year.

Bupa Dental Care Managing Director, Dr Ros Blakley said Bupa’s Members First Ultimate initiative, would help Australians, who may have missed appointments or put procedures on hold, get their oral health back on track.

“By focusing on prevention and breaking down cost barriers, our aim is to help people maintain optimal oral health which we know is closely linked to general health,” Dr Blakey said.

“A visit to the dentist means a whole lot more than a simple clean and a search for cavities. We can also look for signs of oral cancer, oral infections and a range of other conditions that can have a significant impact on your health if not addressed early.”

Bupa members who access Members First or Members First Platinum providers instead, will still have access to benefits including gap-free dental for eligible kids and certainty of out-of-pocket expenses for most dental services[i].

For more information visit here.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

[i] In relation to Members First Ultimate dental benefits available to eligible Bupa members, further information can be found here. Waiting periods, yearly limits (conditions vary), service restrictions (clinical reasonability rules), and fund and policy rules apply.

[ii] Members First Ultimate Providers are not available in all areas.

Bupa Dental Care Director, Ros Blakley said the Graduate Program reflects an unwavering commitment to professional development and growth at Bupa Dental Care.

“We take immense pride in our network of talented dentists who are eager to share their skills and experience with budding professionals in dentistry.

“Mentors in the program tailor their coaching programs to accommodate the individual needs of their mentees. This personalised approach ensures that each graduate receives meaningful, targeted support, across various aspects of dental practice - from treatment planning and case discussions to tackling complex procedures,” Dr Blakley said.

Understanding the importance of networking for new dentists as they kick off their careers, graduates will participate in at least three in-person events as part of the refreshed program, including Bupa Dental Care’s flagship Dental Conference on the Gold Coast in February 2024.

Lois Livingstone, a 2023 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Dentist said the adjustment from student dentist to a general dentist was made easier at Bupa Dental, with colleagues providing reassurance and support, whenever needed.

“My weekly meetings with my mentor have allowed me to reflect, laugh and most importantly learn in the clinic. My clinical confidence as a whole has improved since joining the program and believe this also has developed my identity as a dentist,” Lois said.

For graduate dentists looking to express their interest for the 2024 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Program visit here.

^{[1] Driving Dental Practice Performance in the ‘New Normal’ (commbank.com.au)}

Bupa Dental Care Director, Ros Blakley said the extension will help make dental care accessible and affordable for Australian children at a time when many families are struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

“Ensuring children grow up with regular check-ups from their friendly local dentist give them the best chance of growing into adulthood with healthy teeth and gums which can also positively impact their general wellbeing.

“While our practices offer check-ups with no out-of-pocket costs for families with eligible health insurance policies, we recognise not everyone has coverage or stress-free household budgets. That’s why we welcome any and all initiatives that help ease cost of living pressures which can be a real barrier to healthcare,” said Ros.

Along with regular dental check-ups, brushing twice a day and maintaining a healthy diet are important parts of maintaining a child’s oral health which is closely associated with their general health.

To find a Bupa Dental dentist near you visit here.

[1] News & Media - Australian Dental Association (ada.org.au)

Bupa Dental Care Director, Ros Blakley said this initiative was developed understanding the undeniable link between the planet’s health and people’s health.

“We use thousands of dental care products every year that cannot biodegrade or be recycled, so taking action to find a sustainable solutions was a real priority for us.

Last year, Bupa Dental Care rolled out the Everyday Dental Recycling Program, which enabled patients and local communities to drop off everyday oral health items such as empty toothpaste tubes, toothbrushes, floss containers and mouthwash bottles and give them a new life after being melted and remoulded into new recycled products

“By piloting new sustainable initiatives, we’re empowering our people and our patients to think more deeply about their environmental impact.

“Environmental conservation is a long and complicated journey, so we look forward to developing additional initiatives in the future as we continually review how we deliver sustainable best-practice dental care,” Ros said.

To find a Bupa Dental Practice near you visit here.

[1] https://www.dentaltix.com/en/blog/impact-dental-sector-environment

Bupa Dental Head Dentist Dr Cathryn Madden says choosing the best toothpaste for your specific needs can be challenging with supermarket aisles bulging with options and social media feeds filled with information on ‘the next big thing’ for your teeth.

"For example, tooth powders have been shown to be effective in removing stains and plaque but can be overly abrasive, and while fluoride-free toothpaste may have fewer additives, using it may increase your chances of developing cavities.

“Invariably the ideal toothpaste for you should be matched with your age, diet, sensitivity levels and the current state of your teeth and gums. One important thing to note is that if a toothpaste doesn’t contain fluoride, then it provides minimal protection from developing decay,” Dr Madden said.

In light of the growing number of options, information and misinformation people are exposed to, Australians are being encouraged to discuss toothpaste choices with their dentist, particularly ahead of a change in brand or active ingredients.

“Your teeth are way too important to risk an adverse switch. Even swapping out your normal toothpaste and purchasing an alternative for a tube’s worth of time can expose you to over a month of sub-optimal protection… and a lot can happen in your mouth in a month!

“Your friendly local dentist can talk to you about all the ins and outs of regular and alternative toothpaste types and arm you with all the information required to make a decision you can smile about,” Dr Madden said.

Regardless of what toothpaste you use, you can make a healthy choice for the environment by recycling empty tubes at Bupa Dental practices around Australia as part of our Everyday Dental Recycling Program. Once processed, your used oral health products can be repurposed into useful new products like garden furniture and playground equipment.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

^{[1] https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/herbal-toothpaste-market-3899 / https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/reports/fluoride-free-toothpaste-market}

Bupa Dental Care Clinical Director, Dr Kavita Lobo, said the program aims to engage dentists in a lifelong, professional relationship, with room to move and grow across our national network.

“There’s no doubt emerging dentists have missed out on in-person teaching as a result of COVID-19 which has the potential to hinder employment prospects and clinical confidence if left too long.

As part of a global healthcare company, Bupa Dental Care can also open up the world to new graduates with figures revealing dentists are amongst the world’s most in-demand professions^[1].

“There is so much innovation and growth in the dental industry at the moment with the use of artificial intelligence and other technologies revolutionising the way we practice.

“While some graduates find they spend too much time on admin and other non-clinical tasks, we ensure graduates can focus their time on their patients to develop their skills with our support team handling the back-end management,” said Kavita.

Participants in the 12-month Bupa Dental Graduate Program receive remuneration, access to sick leave and annual leave, and a minimum 20 hours of CPD learning through formal education sessions. Graduates will start employment in January 2023.

To find out more about the 2023 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Program visit here.

^[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/worldwide-shortage-of-health-workers-threatens-effective-health-coverage-301553411.html

Bupa Dental Head Dentist, Cathryn Madden said it’s important people understand that good oral hygiene is about more than just a beautiful smile or a cavity-free mouth.

“Along with cleaning your teeth and gums, dentists carry out an oral cancer screening during check-ups to ensure any problems are picked up before they become major issues,” Dr Madden said.

This advice is being reinforced during Dental Health Week (1 - 7 August), an annual awareness campaign aimed at promoting better oral health practices.

“Dental Health Week is a fantastic reminder for all Australians to review their oral health habits and think about whether they have seen a dentist during the calendar year, and if they haven’t, to book one in for the near future.

“People should take the time to look at their diet and discuss with their families, their dentist or medical professional whether they might be consuming too much sugar which can lead to tooth decay and other mouth issues^[4]… when it comes to a healthy mouth and body, you only get out what you put in!” said Dr Madden.

For more information on Dental Health Week visit here.

_{^[1] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/adj.12765}

_{^[2] https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2022.912709/full}

_{^[3] https://fdiworlddental.org/gphp}

_{^[4] https://www.teeth.org.au/sugar}

Bupa Optical Optometrist Karen Makin said people are less inclined to wear sunglasses during winter regardless of how sunny or glary it might be.

“During the winter months, people who drive during sunrise and sunset without sunglasses expose themselves to sun glare and reflections off rainy surfaces which can impair vision and increase your chance of having an accident. Sun glare is one of the most common causes of car accidents, but the risk can be reduced by wearing polarised sunglasses on the road.

“During the winter months, the cool weather can also dry out your eyes and make them irritable and teary which can affect your mood and ability to concentrate, particularly if you wear contact lenses. It’s important people don’t suffer through the discomfort and consult an optometrist to see what options might be available,” said Karen.

From an oral health perspective, many people also report experiencing higher levels of tooth sensitivity or jaw tightness during winter, particularly when spending time outside.

Bupa Dental Head Dentist, Dr Cathryn Madden says our mouths are more sensitive to the climate than we may think.  

“When we are cold, many of us involuntarily clench our mouths or chatter our teeth, which can lead to jaw pain and headaches. Our teeth may also experience sensitivity and aches more than usual as they transition from warm to cold environments.

“Exposure to gusty cold winds and heated indoor spaces can also dry our mouth and cause bad breath, cracked lips and increase the risk of tooth decay with saliva being a natural defender against cavities and gum disease.

“Remedies like sugar-free gum or drinking more water can be effective remedies, however, it’s always best to consult your friendly local dentist if you notice any adverse changes to your mouth so you can get on top of the situation and keep your healthy smile through winter and beyond,” Dr Madden said.

To view the latest range of sunglasses available at Bupa Optical or to book an eye test visit here.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

At 66-years-old, Pam could retire, but as Unit Coordinator at Bupa Cashmere View Care Home, in Christchurch, she’s not quite ready to give up the job she loves.

“I love being able to make a difference each day in the lives of other people, and that comradery working with very likeminded people within the profession,” she says.

Pam joined Bupa in 1999. Prior to this she worked at Christchurch, Nelson, Westland and Southern Cross Hospitals, and ran a Health Clinic at a local High School.

Initially starting one day a week as a Registered Nurse at Bupa Cashmere View, it wasn’t long before Pam was helping set up the care home’s two Psychogeriatric Units and moving into the full-time role of Unit Coordinator.

In this role she gives clinical support to people with advanced brain disease, who are in the late stages of their illness, and to the team that she works with.

“Everybody’s brain disease, and progression of that, is really unique and different to them. So, the role of myself and the team is to ensure that every one of those people has the best plan of care around them so that right up until the end, they can maintain a quality of life. A big part of that is also helping support the families through that journey as well,” she says.

While a lot has changed since Pam trained as a nurse at the age of 17 in the 1970s, one thing hasn’t – the essence of nursing.

“Over the 40 plus years, I haven’t seen that change at all – the nurses’ role is still to give the best quality care and to continuously seek the best outcomes for their patients. While the way we train nurses may have changed, what we train nurses for hasn’t,” she says.

When Pam looks back over her career, she is proud to have been able to provide care, compassion and education to patients, their families, and her colleagues.

“I’ve worked with thousands of patients and colleagues over the years, and I think I grew and developed in my nursing career, but at the same time I can look back and see how my nursing career grew and developed me as an individual,” she says.

“I’ve learnt not to judge anybody and that everybody has a story and a history that shapes them and makes them uniquely who they are. I think that is a remarkable thing to gain from a job that you love.”

Her love for the job also extends to a love for Bupa Cashmere View, having chosen to remain working at the care home for over 20 years.

“I love Bupa Cashmere View as employees have been here for many, many years, so we’ve been able to develop and grow teams who are very committed,” she says.

“There’s also never been a reason why I would leave, because anything I have wanted to achieve in terms of training or leadership, I’ve been able to achieve here.”

For anyone contemplating a career in nursing, Pam says, “It’s rewarding, it’s exhausting and it’s life changing. Only another nurse can really understand what it is to be a nurse and the joys, frustrations and complexities of the job – but I love it, so go for it”.

Bupa Dental Head Dentist Dr Cathryn Madden says many of these social media DIY hacks can cause irreversible or costly damage to your teeth.

“While we strongly encourage our patients to maintain a strong oral health routine at home, this should be limited to the basics like brushing, flossing or other activities recommended by your dentist or medical professional.

“Your teeth and gums can be quite delicate and unwanted damage can affect your ability to eat and speak while also impacting your overall health through the risk of infections, headaches. In the event of DIY whitening, swallowing hydrogen peroxide can also make you quite ill,” Dr Madden said.

Recent research from the Australian Dental Association has found that only 1 in 3 adults whiten their teeth under the supervision of a dental professional,^[1] many of which later report pain or sensitivity.

“Before you try a new product or oral health technique recommended by a friend or social media, it’s always a good idea to consult your friendly local dentist. They will be able to advise if the product or process is safe and walk you through any safer alternatives.

“Dentists study for many years to ensure your teeth and gums stay in the best possible condition in a safe and clean environment. So, don’t take shortcuts, just make an appointment, ask any questions you might have and open wide… we are here to look after your beautiful smile!” said Dr Madden.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

Media reference number: 22/105

^[1] https://www.ada.org.au/News-Media/News-and-Release/Latest-News/Teeth-whitening-21032022

Bupa Head Dentist, Dr Cathryn Madden, was optimistic that dental care recycling would form an ongoing part of people’s sustainable mindset.

“During our initial trial of the program the feedback we had from our patients, team members and people from the local community who just wanted to pop in and drop off recyclable products was extremely encouraging,” Dr Madden said.

“Most of the people we spoke to didn’t know their oral health products were recyclable or that they couldn’t be disposed of in their yellow bins at home. Through this program, we look forward to working with TerraCycle to educate local communities and support healthy smiles and a healthy planet.”

People can drop off empty toothpaste tubes, toothpaste caps, manual toothbrushes, floss containers, electric toothbrush heads and mouthwash bottles across Bupa Dental’s 60 practices around Australia during regular opening hours without the need to make an appointment or be an existing patient.

If you’d like to find out more about how TerraCycle recycles dental waste, click here.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

Bupa Head Dentist, Cathryn Madden said it’s vital that people of all ages visit the dentist regularly to protect their oral and general health with data suggesting over 60 per cent of adults haven’t seen a dentist for at least 2 years^[1].

“There is no doubt that looking after your teeth and gums enhances your general health with chronic issues such as diabetes and heart disease both being linked to gum inflammation and periodontal disease. Your dentist will also carry out an oral cancer screening at your check-up.

“Dental Health Week acts as a great annual reminder for people to stop and think about whether they have seen a dentist during the calendar year, and if they haven’t, to book in for the near future^[2]. Regular appointments with your friendly local dentist are a vital part of maintaining your oral health,” said Dr Madden.

Dr Madden also encouraged Australians to focus on maintaining positive oral health practices at home such as brushing twice a day, flossing and eating a healthy diet. At present 1 in 3 adults rate their oral health as 'poor' or 'very poor.^[3]

“If like many Australians, you have been consuming more alcohol or junk food during the COVID-19 pandemic now is a good time to make a resolution to make some healthy diet changes that will help you keep your smile for life!” said Dr Madden.

For more information on Dental Health Week visit here.

To find a Bupa dentist near you visit here.

The HitIQ smart mouthguards, currently used by AFL and NRL players, is embedded with force measuring sensors that log head knocks and the accumulation of force from hits sustained during a game. The trial will see up to 100 players from the Wests Bulldogs Junior Rugby Club fitted for the mouthguards at Bupa Dental’s Brisbane and Toowong Practices.

Bupa’s Managing Director of Health Services, Dr Dwayne Crombie said this is a landmark trial that bridges the gap between dental care and general health care and safety for junior athletes.

“The importance of an expertly fitted mouthguard for young players is widely acknowledged, but we know very little about the effects of game-day collisions on their developing brains with most concussion-related research being undertaken on elite level adult players.

“This has the potential to be a truly transformational offering and we’re proud to be the first dental practice to offer the HitIQ solution to Australian children,” Dr Crombie said.

Concussion is a growing concern at professional rugby league level with one concussion being recorded every 1.6 games according to recent reports^[1].

Mike Vegar, Managing Director Hit IQ said it was exciting to be partnering with Australia’s largest dental provider for this trial that will go a long way towards helping local and international sports bodies understand how to make junior sport safer.

“We know a major barrier to junior sport participation is parental concern over concussions and head knocks.

“Our artificial intelligence enabled mouthguard not only gathers accumulative data for analysis but can also assist in game-day concussion assessments and faster linkages to medical assistance,” Mike Vegar said.

In the event that a child sustains a head impact above a pre-determined threshold during a game or training, parents of the child will be able to receive a text message with a link to a head injury symptomology assessment. If the child fails the assessment, they will be advised to follow club concussion protocols and seek medical treatment.

Dr Crombie said Bupa Dental looks forward to reviewing the results of the trial with a view to potentially extending the offering more widely.

Bupa Dental and HitIQ’s Junior Rugby Pilot Project is currently underway and will end mid-August.

The latest oral health report from the Australian government^[1] revealed an increase in untreated tooth decay amongst adults who are also visiting the dentist less frequently. These trends have been brought to light in the lead up to World Oral Health Day (20 March), an annual event aimed at empowering people with the knowledge and tools to maintain good oral health.

Bupa Head Dentist, Cathryn Madden said the dental industry made significant advancements in the ways dental care can be delivered as a result of COVID-19.

“As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, innovations such as virtual consultations via smartphones with patients made dentists accessible and gave people opportunities to help address any emerging oral health issues. Despite these innovations that compliment face-to face consultations, it is concerning that many are still avoiding dental care,” said Dr Madden.

Australian Government data has also revealed the leading cause of preventable hospitalisation in Australian children is dental diseases,^[2]

“Detrimental changes to your teeth can happen very slowly and by the time you seek help, a small problem can turn into a big one. Regular check-ups with your friendly local dentist are a vital part of maintaining your oral health,” said Dr Madden

Along with regular dental visits, Australians are encouraged to monitor their intake of alcohol which when consumed at higher levels can increase the risk of oral cancer.

“If like many Australians, you have been consuming more alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic,^[3] it’s worth scheduling a check-up with your dentist… a quick conversation and examination could help you avoid health problems.

“Simple habits like brushing and flossing properly along with responsible consumption of alcohol and sugary treats can help ensure you’ll have a healthy smile to show-off for many years to come. Be proud of your mouth!” said Dr Madden.

For more information on World Oral Health Day visit here.

To find a Bupa dentist near you visit here.

^[1] National Oral Health Plan 2015–2024: performance monitoring report

^[2] https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/dental-oral-health/oral-health-and-dental-care-in-australia/contents/hospitalisations

^[3] https://www.anu.edu.au/news/all-news/alcohol-consumption-increases-during-covid-19-crisis

Dr Kavita Lobo, BDC’s Clinical Director, said Dr Madden is a passionate champion for clinical quality and oral health.

“More than half a million Australians and New Zealanders trust us with their dental care each year. We are excited to have Dr Madden take up the role of Head Dentist and work with our clinical and practice teams as part of our ongoing commitment to clinical best practice, safety and continuous education,” said Dr Lobo.

Since Dr Madden first joined Bupa in 2019, the dental industry has experienced a significant number of changes.

“The biggest change has been the response to the global pandemic by way of the introduction of COVID-19 safety protocols in dental practices, which have changed how dental treatment is provided,” said Dr Madden.

“There are exciting times ahead in dentistry with huge advances in dental technology altering the way we care for our patients’ oral health; virtual consultations have become more commonplace along with advances in treatment planning technology and smart toothbrushes.”

“The constantly evolving nature of the industry is something that really excites me and I can’t wait to sink my teeth into the role and help Bupa Dental make a positive impact on people’s oral health while also delivering rewarding career pathways for our people.”

As part of BDC’s commitment to clinical quality, we also have a Clinical Advisory Panel with representatives across our dental network. We look forward to announcing our 2021 Panel members shortly.

Media reference number: 20/115

Accreditation applies for three years and was awarded by independent assessors Quality Improvement Performance (QIP), an Australian Government-approved agency.

Amy Cockshutt, Interim Director BDC, acknowledged the efforts and continued commitment demonstrated by dental practice teams.

“BDC would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated team members for all you do every day to keep our patients safe and healthy,” said Amy.

Health services, including the provision of dental services, is highly regulated and accreditation against Australia’s NSQHS Standards is one of many safeguards the BDC meets in order to maintain high standards in dentistry.

More than half a million patients place their trust in a BDC practice every year. Founded in 2007 as part of a growing network of experienced clinicians, the business became a part of Bupa in 2013, further assisting Bupa to help people to live longer, healthier, happier lives.

This includes the development of a suicide prevention app LifeBuoy, which has been shown to reduce suicidal thoughts among young people, while increasing feelings of general wellbeing

“Mental health is a major issue among young people, particularly due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our research has shown that mental health has worsened for around 75 per cent of young people during this time. We know that they are very comfortable using technology, so ultimately, I’d like to see technology being used to facilitate positive change in the mental health of young people,” Dr Han said.

“This award will allow me to further some of my early stage ideas that I might not have otherwise been able to progress. I’m super excited and honoured to be named the Bupa Health Foundation Emerging Health Researcher of the Year.”

Professor Samuel Harvey, Director of Discovery at the Black Dog Institute said awards like these provide much-needed community recognition and support to young researchers which help encourage them to continue their research and set their career path.

“Jin is a rising star here at the Black Dog Institute, with her research tackling some of the biggest mental health issues we are facing as a society. More young people than ever are reporting depression and anxiety symptoms. While many see technology as part of the problem, what makes Jin stand out is that she wants to harness that technology to find solutions,” Professor Harvey said.

The Bupa Health Foundation has named an additional four award finalists and five Commendations resulting in a total investment of $50,000 into Australia’s brightest health and medical researchers, building on our overall investment of more than $2 million this year.

Bupa Director of Clinical Governance, Dr Zoe Wainer said while this has been a challenging year in funding for the research sector, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of swift and targeted responses to health problems, and the need to support innovations in this field.

“The calibre of this year’s 110 nominees was incredibly high and is a testament to the health and medical research talent we have in Australia. Our finalists span across a range of important health research areas and have shown exceptional talent, dedication and persistence in their research careers, while ensuring their research leads to tangible improvements in health of the Australian community,” Dr Wainer said.

“We are yet to see the full mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and new innovations such as Dr Han’s LifeBuoy app will be critical in helping to support many young Australians through this difficult period,” she added.

This year’s Bupa Emerging Health Researcher finalists, who will each receive a $5,000 grant are:

• Dr Amanda Gwee from Murdoch Children’s Research Institute for her work in improving the use of antibiotics to treat serious infections in Australian Children.
• Dr Alice Grady from the University of Newcastle for her research into preventing childhood obesity.
• Dr Eduardo Albornoz Balmaceda from the University of Queensland who is identifying new drug therapies for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s.
• Dr Alexandra Jones from The George Institute for Global Health for her work informing best-practice policy action to improve food environments which impact the health of the community.

Dr Calos Garcia Esperon from John Hunter Hospital, Dr Jake Linadon from Deakin University, Dr Kiah Evans from Telethon Institute, Dr Lana McClements from University of Technology and Dr Joyce Siette from Macquarie University all received Commendations and will receive a $1,000 grant each.

For more information on the finalists, visit here.

In addition to the continued health threat posed by COVID-19, there has been an underlying strain felt by the dental profession in such customer-facing, caring roles.

Here’s a psychologist’s top five tips and resources for dentists to identify, treat and prevent signs of fatigue before they lead to burn out and impact mental health.

1. Manage anxiety by finding ways to share it

For dentists, more often than not, patients are attending because they know that they have to and can be anxious, often managing fear around painful treatments in the past, or even nervous about cost.

Naturally, this can impact the enjoyment of a dentist’s day as they work to soothe and allay those fears, whilst also managing many other responsibilities. For many dentists, the care for patients begins well in advance of taking a look at their teeth.

“It’s natural to sometimes feel emotionally drained, or unable to switch off at the end of a demanding working day, which makes your own self-care crucial,” says Bupa psychologist Chanel Nesci.

“It’s important on these days to spend time acknowledging your own thoughts and needs, to help you manage the time and effort you put in to helping your patients feel calm and comfortable.”

Ms Nesci recommends regularly checking in on yourself and your team and trying to incorporate a debriefing session after any particularly difficult days or interactions. This helps both you and the team to clarify what has happened, assists in continuous learning and can highlight any need for support.

2. If you need support or someone to talk to, try the Dental Practitioner Support line

This service is the first national 24/7 telephone and online service available for dental practitioners and is completely anonymous. You can also use this service if you’re worried about the mental health of a colleague and not sure what to do.

Proactively reaching out for help can make a big difference to how we feel. Find out more here: https://www.dentalboard.gov.au/News/2020-07-06-Support-for-dental-practitioners-is-here.aspx

3. Pace yourself and carve out mini moments in time

Not only are dentists juggling patient emotions whilst performing tricky procedures – they do this while managing a high volume of patients and keeping to schedule.

While it can be tempting to keep a brisk pace with back-to-back appointments, it’s also helpful to carve out dedicated time in the day to give yourself some time for yourself, to eat, switch off, or do something you enjoy, even if this is brief. These breaks can be crucial to relieving physical tension in the body as well as emotional tension.

“It can be as simple as setting reminders in your phone or reminding each other as a team to take stretching breaks,” says Ms Nesci. “These mini-resets can help you recognise where you’re holding physical tensions and can also prompt you to actively try to let go of other things worrying you or on your mind.”

Practicing mindfulness, even if only briefly for five minutes, has been found to increase focus and productivity.

4. Connect with colleagues to swap stories and tips

It is also helpful to reach out for advice or a chat, to see how others in similar roles manage the busy days and swapping tips can be invaluable.

“Connecting with your colleagues and talking openly with one another at work can be incredibly beneficial for your own wellbeing, especially as our colleagues are often the people who truly understand our work-related experiences and can empathise with these,” says Ms Nesci.

Head to the Mental Block Facebook support group which is run by dentists for dentists and is a safe place to discuss stress with other dentists.

5. Create positive outcomes

Finally, practicing gratitude, especially in a busy role that is often challenging, can help us remember what we appreciate about the work that we do and why it’s important to us.

This is likely to be different for everyone, so take the time to identify and acknowledge the things about your role and work that you are grateful for. Thinking about why we pursued our careers in the first place can be a great place to start!

Practicing gratitude is a healthy habit that helps to build and maintain a positive frame of mind, strengthen and support relationships and enable us to maintain a mindset that can better help us to cope with the challenges we face throughout our lives.

Bupa is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our dental professionals and have a range of resources available to support you. Keep an eye out for these in our internal newsletters or ask your leader how to access them.

It is a disease without a cure, but it is entirely preventable.

The Endgame Strategy, brings together experience, knowledge and evidence in a comprehensive long-term strategic plan to end RHD in Australia by 2031.

Bupa has been a proud END RHD Charter signatory since 2018 when we launched our updated Reconciliation Action Plan with a renewed focus on working towards health equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

To demonstrate our commitment to ending RHD Bupa committed close to half a million dollars to support a community-led program in three high-risk remote communities in the Northern Territory aimed at developing culturally appropriate strategies to treat and prevent the disease. Community-based programs, such as this one, are identified as a priority action area in the Endgame Strategy.

World-leading RHD expert and senior author of the Endgame Strategy, Telethon Kids Director Professor Jonathan Carapetis AM, said the strategy’s release marked the first time a comprehensive evidence base had been developed showing how eliminating RHD across Australia could be done.

“With the release of this Endgame Strategy we now have the blueprint outlining exactly what needs to happen to both prevent new cases and improve the quality of life for those already living with the disease,” Professor Carapetis said.

“RHD is rare among non-Indigenous people, yet Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have some of the highest rates of the disease in the world. This is a disease that is usually only seen in developing countries and its persistence in Australia is an ongoing injustice,” he said.

Dr Zoe Wainer, Bupa’s Director of Clinical Governance praised END RHD’s work which will allow many in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to live longer and healthier lives.

“While this disease may not be a well-known one, it can have a lasting and devastating impact on many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. But most importantly, it is preventable.

Research suggests there are many common issues that can be heightened during disease outbreaks, including: panic, depression, anger, confusion and uncertainty, with up to a third of people experiencing high levels of worry and anxiety^[1]. Any mental health issue people might be experiencing can be amplified while struggles with addiction or family violence could get worse. Social isolation can also increase feelings of loneliness, grief and self-doubt.

Bupa’s Senior Mental Health & Wellbeing Advisor, Chanel Nesci says there has never been a more important time to connect with people and provide support to those who might be struggling.

5 helpful tips for asking R U OK?

1. Prepare yourself to ask the question. Make sure you’re in a good headspace, have time to listen and be prepared that the person you are speaking to may not be okay.
2. Have the conversation in a place that’s private and informal where you can listen without judgment. Give the person time to think and take what they say seriously.
3. In a situation where you find a person isn’t okay, the next best step is to encourage action. Asking questions like, “What would be a good first step we can take?” or “How can I help you with this?” can prompt someone to identify what they may be needing.
4. If someone is needing more urgent support or if they mention that they are thinking about taking their own life, link them to urgent medical support or call services such as Lifeline. Where life is in immediate danger, contact 000.
5. Remember to check in on the person regularly, to see if they have accessed any support or found ways to better manage their situation.
6. If you feel worried or concerned about people around you, make sure that you seek support for yourself, as this may have an impact on you too.

COVID-19 has dramatically changed social environments, particularly in Victoria where most people have been largely confined to their homes during stage 4 restrictions.

“If you can’t connect with someone in person, take the time to pick up the phone or set up a video chat to ask R U OK? It could be the most important conversation you have all year.

“It’s also vital that anyone who is struggling with their mental health consults a GP or qualified health professional who can provide support and treatment options. Don’t wait for the pandemic to pass, to access support for your mental health,” Chanel said.

What Bupa is doing to support the mental health of its customers

The Bupa Health Foundation recently donated more than $2 million in funding to projects supporting the mental health of young Australians. This has helped grow the My Circle digital platform, where young people can connect anonymously with their peers for online group counselling, and expand the Kids Helpline@School program to reach more primary schools across Australia.

Bupa has also provided male customers in Victoria free access to an online wellbeing hub, in partnership with Australian mental health solution provider Mindstar and digital innovator Go1, to assist them in the face of the growing mental health challenges triggered by the social and financial impacts of the state’s Stage 4 restrictions.

Psychology has been identified as the second most common telehealth claim for Bupa since it began funding services delivered over the telephone on March 25. As physical distancing restrictions eased across Australia in May, Bupa continues to fund both telehealth and face to face psychological services.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our aged care residents haven’t been able to see their loved ones as often as they would like. Finding new ways to maintain virtual connections has been important in looking after our residents’ mental wellbeing during this time. We’ve introduced a number of new ways to keep in touch including through video calls on new iPads in each home, a dedicated aged care app, private Facebook groups and by asking local communities to send in letters and drawings as part of our Visits By Mail initiative.

Media reference number: 20/095

^{[1] Blackdoginstitute.org.au. 2020. Mental Health Ramifications Of COVID-19: The Australian Context. [online] Available at: [Accessed 28 July 2020]}

Dr Kavita Lobo, Clinical Director of Bupa Dental says it’s important that patients return to see their dentist and have their teeth and gums examined, as regular dental check-ups, scale and cleans, and procedures such as fillings are essential to avoiding more serious dental work in the future.

Highlighting the state of oral healthcare across Australia, the 2020 Adult Oral Health Tracker undertaken by the Australian Dental Association, found that:

• 32.1% of adults have untreated tooth decay;
• 28.8% of adults have periodontal pockets, which is connected to gum disease; and
• Only 53% of adults brush their teeth twice a day.

“When left untreated, tooth decay and gum disease can destroy the tissues in the mouth, which can lead to lasting physical and psychological disability,” Dr Lobo said.“Many of the conditions that affect the oral cavity are largely preventable. These conditions can have a significant impact on oral health and quality of life, as these conditions can cause pain, lead to days off from work and even result in hospitalisation.

“Many Australians had to postpone their dental appointments during COVID-19 restrictions. With dental practices open again, we strongly encourage people to book in to see their dentist and maintain good oral health care,” Dr Lobo said.

The most important ways to look after your teeth and mouth include:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day, with toothpaste than contains fluoride;
• A healthy diet of fresh food and drinking water;
• Avoiding sugary drinks;
• Regular dental check-ups to help remove plaque, undertake a proper clean, and to monitor your teeth and mouth for adverse changes; and
• Quit smoking.

Media reference number: 20/073

CEO of The Big Issue Steven Persson said accessing resources such as flu vaccinations can often be harder for vendors due to their personal circumstances.

“In these difficult times those experiencing homelessness and disadvantage are especially vulnerable, so being vaccinated against the flu to help with their overall wellbeing is even more important this year.

“This is the third year Bupa has offered free flu vaccinations for our vendors, and something we’re particularly thankful for during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Mark, who has been selling The Big Issue magazine since 2014, said having the vaccination will give him peace of mind when he’s back on the street selling magazines again.

“It’s peace of mind for myself and peace of mind for the customers. It was great for Bupa to send down a nurse to do this, and it was easier for us to come here than to go to a local doctors.

While The Big Issue vendors aren’t currently selling magazines on the street, Mark said he was looking forward to getting back to work soon.

“I get to meet a lot of people that wouldn’t normally talk to me if I didn’t have the vest on. It’s an honest way to make a bit of pocket money.”

Emily Bellemore, Bupa’s head of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, said Bupa has been looking at ways it can help more vulnerable communities and support vital organisations, such as The Big Issue, who are being hit hard by the pandemic.

“As one of Australia’s largest health and care companies, we want to use the unique skills and resources we have within our business to help provide essential services, like flu vaccinations, to those most in need.

“We’re really proud that we can support our nurses across Australia to provide Big Issue vendors with easy access to vaccination to help them stay well during the colder months ahead.”

Ms Bellemore said Bupa had also donated $10,000 to The Big Issue’s Hardship Fun which provides immediate and long-term support to vendors during this time.

Media reference number: 20/070

“It’s important that patients return to see their dentist and have their teeth and gums examined, as regular dental check-ups, scale and cleans, and procedures such as fillings are essential to avoiding more serious dental work in the future,” Dr Kavita Lobo, Clinical Director of Bupa Dental, said.

“When left untreated, tooth decay and gum disease can damage the tissues in the mouth, which can lead to irreversible damage."

“Many of the conditions that affect the oral cavity are largely preventable. We know many Australians had to postpone their usual dental check-up because of the COVID-19 restrictions. With dental practices open again, we strongly encourage people to book in to see their dentist and maintain good oral health care,” Dr Lobo said.

Bupa’s priority remains the safety and well-being of our patients, our people and the wider community. In line with this commitment, all of Bupa’s dental practices have implemented a number of standard and COVID-19 specific measures to help minimise any risk of exposure within one of our dental practices. These include:

• Strengthened cleaning procedures, including actively promoting the regular use of antibacterial hand sanitiser and surface wipes;
• Stringent personal hygiene measures for our people;
• Touch free temperature checks for our patients;
• Scheduling and managing patients to limit the time they will spend in a common area and unnecessary contact with others;
• The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all treatments, such as masks, protective eyewear, gloves and appropriate protective outerwear;
• Our team members are to stay home if they have been in contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 or are feeling unwell; and
• Requesting patients reschedule their appointment if they have been in contact with someone confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19, have travelled internationally in the last 14 days, or are or have recently been unwell, including experiencing any flu-like symptoms.

“Bupa is doing everything possible to ensure that our dental practices are safe, adhering to stringent infection control measures, and our dentists are here to help their patients look after their teeth,” Dr Lobo said.

Media reference number: 20/068

IDAHOBIT is a global day to stand up and support the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual community, who are more likely to face discrimination in and outside of the workplace.

A recent study of workplaces by the Diversity Council of Australia and RMIT University found that sadly only 32% of LGBTI+ employees shared their identity with their colleagues, and those who aren't open about who they are at work are less likely to be satisfied within their role. We want to create an environment that is supportive for our people to bring their whole selves to work.

Earlier this month Suzanne Dvorak, Managing Director BVAC became the Executive Sponsor of our Employee Pride Network.

"It's important everyone feels safe and supported to be themselves in the workplace. To do this, we need to actively create a culture that enables this to happen. I'm excited for the year ahead and to see the positive impact the Employee Pride Network will have."

 "I want to actively support this group of purposeful and driven individuals, who are working to create an inclusive environment for not only our people, but our customers and residents too."

This year some of our Pride Network shared what word resonated with them this IDAHOBIT through a visual representation of the rainbow. 

As part of Bupa's code, we are passionate about celebrating the diversity of Bupa, so that we operate in a way that supports everyone to bring their own identity to the workplace, and then when they are here, they feel that they belong.

Thanks for being patient with us as we’ve implemented the restrictions required by Government and relevant authorities to help keep everyone healthy and safe.

We’re open and again able to take appointments for all your dental care needs, whether a preventive dental check-up, or treatment that you were mid-way through or would like to commence. 

We hope the below information from Dr Kavita Lobo, Clinical Director for Bupa Dental, is helpful and answers any questions or concerns you may have.

If you have an enquiry (or a sore tooth!) please call your local Bupa Dental practice.

Can I still go to the dentist?

Yes. We’re open and again able to take appointments for all your dental care needs, whether a preventive dental check-up, or treatment that you were mid-way through or would like to commence.

If you have a question or concern about your dental care, please call your local Bupa Dental practice.

What safety measures do dental practices have in place?

We want to assure you that our priority remains the safety and well-being of people - our patients, our people and the community.

In line with this commitment, we’re continuing to implement a number of standard and COVID-19 specific measures to help minimise any risk of exposure within the practice. These include:

• Standard infection control procedures to reduce the spread of any infection;
• The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all treatments such as standard level 2 surgical masks, protective eyewear, gloves and appropriate protective outerwear;
• Strengthened cleaning procedures, including actively promoting the regular use of antibacterial hand sanitiser and surface wipes;
• Stringent personal hygiene measures for our people;
• Touch free temperature checks for our patients;
• Scheduling and managing patients to limit the time they will spend in a common area and unnecessary contact with others;
• Requesting patients reschedule their appointment if they have been in contact with someone confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19, have travelled internationally in the last 14 days, or are or have recently been unwell, including experiencing any flu-like symptoms; and
• Our team members are to stay home if they have been in contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 or are feeling unwell.

What do I do if I have a dental emergency?

You can still see a Bupa dentist if you have a dental emergency.

A dental emergency is a situation that requires immediate treatment. It may involve conditions that cause severe pain, infection or directly affect your health. Dental emergencies can include:

• Swelling affecting your mouth, face and/or neck;
• Difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing or breathing (unrelated to COVID-19);
• Damage to your mouth or jaw following an accident or injury causing loss of a tooth or teeth being moved from their original position in the mouth;
• Severe dental pain that is affecting your sleep and/or does not subside with use of pain-relief medications;
• Tooth fracture where the nerve inside the tooth becomes exposed (which may or may not include bleeding);
• Ulcers present in the mouth for 3 weeks or longer;
• Wire or bracket fractures in orthodontic patients;
• Uncontrolled bleeding post-oral surgery;
• Patients referred by a doctor for medically necessary dental care or for urgent dental care prior to surgery that cannot be delayed; and
• Treatment of a dental condition that can directly affect your health, for example, remove of an oral cancer lesion from inside the mouth.

If you have a dental emergency, please call your local Bupa Dental practice.

I have braces – what should I do?

We are seeing patients for their usual orthodontic check-ups. Please call your local Bupa Dental practice to book in.

Remember to keep good oral hygiene by brushing three times a day and regular flossing. And remember not to eat ‘forbidden foods’, as this will help avoid any breakage.

If you wear elastics, please continue to do so as directed. Your braces will continue to straighten your teeth all day and night. And proper elastic wear will continue to correct your bite.

I have Invisalign – what should I do?

We are once again seeing patients for their usual Invisalign appointments, and will be able make a new digital scan for new aligners.

Some other useful tips about Invisalign include:

• Remember to keep wearing your active aligners, as instructed.
• Use your chewies, and bite and hold to seat the aligners in areas where you may see visible space between your tooth and the aligner.
• Bite into your chewie for 10 seconds and work it around your teeth, lightly biting, holding for a 10-minute session.
• If you no longer have aligners to continue to your next week, reduce your last aligner wear to a retainer phase of 10-12 hours per day to ensure that your teeth stay in position and make your aligner last longer.
• Keep your aligners clean and avoid all drinks other than water while wearing them.
• Remember to wash your hands before placing and removing your aligners or elastics.

If you have a question or concern about Invisalign, please call your local Bupa Dental practice.

I was meant to be getting a crown – what should I do?

We are able to provide crown and bridge treatments. Please call your local Bupa Dental practice to make an appointment. 

What can I do at home to look after my teeth?

We are glad you asked! Here are seven tips for good oral hygiene:

1. Be sure to brush at least twice per day, using a gentle, circular motion. If you’ve just eaten, wait 30 minutes to brush, since highly acidic or starchy food can soften your enamel. Don’t forget to brush your tongue - bacteria love to accumulate here.
2. Remove plaque by flossing at least once a day. Gently move the floss up and down the sides of each tooth, as well as around the gum line.
3. After brushing and flossing, rinse with water. You can also use antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash (avoid giving fluoride rinses to children younger than six). Since different people can benefit from different rinses, speak with your dentist about which product is best for you.
4. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or when you see the brush head is worn and bristly.
5. Avoid snacking on sugary or acidic foods.
6. Swap sugary beverages like juice or fizzy drinks for tap water.
7. Chew sugar-free gum, which can stimulate saliva production. Saliva is one of your mouth’s best natural defences against bacteria and plaque!

Visit the Bupa Dental website for more information how to take care of your teeth.

1. Can you tell us a little about your career journey?

I started my career about 25 years ago with my undergraduate degree in dentistry at the University of Sydney. My initial roles as a dentist enhanced my critical thinking skills and provided me with mentors for whom ethics were a primary driver.My personal values in natural justice and the protection of people then led me towards the dental regulators on New South Wales. My career as a dentist also led me to work in large corporate practices which strengthened my principles around corporate and clinical governance. I currently maintain a position as the Deputy President of the Dental Council of NSW and the Clinical Director of Bupa Dental Corporation.

2. How have you balanced your personal life with your career?

Three kids under the age of four meant that I required significant family support to ensure a happy work life balance. My partner and I were lucky enough to be able to alternate our working days when our children were young to maintain a healthy balance. Dentistry as a profession enabled me to set my working hours to suit my personal life.

3. Why do you think it’s important to have diversity at all levels?

Diversity around gender, race and religion provides for the fabric of our society. Diversity brings in varied thinking based on cultural norms, upbringing, family values and personal experiences (be they positive or negative).One would and should expect that the diversity in views and opinions are appropriately shared at all levels so that we do not unintentionally discriminate against people who have valid but different opinions.Diversity at the higher levels can only lead to better conversations and outcomes at every level in an organisation.

4. As a leader, how do you advocate for women at Bupa?

Advocation for women is best done through action and demonstration of one's ability. Success and authority in senior roles can inspire generational change in thinking and provide inspiration that gender is not a limiting factor in breaking through the glass ceiling.

Personally, I prefer to celebrate success and mentor up-and-coming young women trying to demonstrate their critical thinking skills and ambitions.

5. What advice would you give other women aiming to progress into senior roles?

Never be afraid to take up a new opportunity - being scared is not a good enough reason to say 'No'.

The scholarship valued at $10,000 will contribute to covering the costs associated with completing Trenae’s Bachelor of Exercise Science and a Bachelor of Psychological Science degrees at Griffith University as well as her broader personal development goals.

The Dr. Evelyn Scott Scholarship is awarded annually by Bupa to honour the legacy of Dr. Scott, a resident of Bupa Mt Sheridan and a proud Indigenous leader who spent her life fighting for rights of all peoples.

Like Dr. Scott, Trenae was recognised as a strong advocate and supporter of her community. Along with working as an Indigenous Teacher Aide at Helensvale State High School, Trenae mentors Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students in the Gold Coast and Logan area through her involvement with AIME. As a mentor she visits local schools once a week to offer academic and social support to students.

Trenae said she will use the scholarship to help her cover the cost of university and support her ambition of volunteering overseas.

"I was in shock when I received the call from Bupa congratulating me. I burst into tears and called my parents straight away. This scholarship means so much to me and will open up a world of opportunities for my personal, educational and professional development."

“The scholarship will also allow me to regularly return to Cairns to visit my family without the stress of managing travel costs from the Gold Coast where I study,” said Trenae.

Trenae has also gained high-level industry experience through the completion of a summer internship at Bupa as part of its indigenous CareerTrackers program.

Bupa Cindy Shay, Bupa’s Director of Health Partnerships & Innovation congratulated Trenae on her outstanding achievements in the community and the workplace.

“Trenae is an outstanding individual who embodies the values of Dr. Scott and we were incredibly grateful to have her intern with us at Bupa.”

“We’re passionate about supporting future female leaders and providing education and employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It’s a privilege to be able to honour Dr Scott’s legacy by supporting talented students like Trenae.” said Ms Shay.

This is the second year Bupa has offered the scholarship, with Keisha Nash, a Monash Medical School student, the first recipient in 2019. In addition to supporting the costs associated with study, Keisha used her scholarship to complete a two-week placement at

Thursday Island hospital and has been invited back this year to continue her learning through the John Flynn Rural Placement Scholarship Scheme.

More information on the Dr Evelyn Scott Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Higher Education Scholarship is available here.

The Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon presented by Bupa Dental is Australia’s largest half marathon and will see runners weave their way around Sydney’s CBD on Sunday 17 May 2020.

Bupa Dental Corporation General Manager, Mark Jeffery, said:

“We’re proud to present this iconic race which allows runners of all abilities to test themselves and improve their health and fitness. Every day we aim to help people live longer, healthier, happier lives and this is another way we can support the proven linkages between good dental health and physical wellbeing.”

Bupa Dental will also be an event partner for the world’s largest fun run, The Sun-Herald City2Surf presented by Westpac, which will celebrate 50 years running on Sunday 9 August.

Bupa Dental will cheering on participants and spectators with a range of family-friendly activities on the course and at the finish line.

Dave Beeche, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Oceania for The IRONMAN Group, said that the organisation was looking forward to working with Bupa Dental on these two iconic Sydney events.

Early bird entries for The Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon presented by Bupa Dental opened today, with more information available here. 

The first scholarship is aimed at post-graduate students with a demonstrated interest in mental health who wish to commence a Master of Public Health, Master of Social Work, or Master of Clinical Psychology at the University. The second scholarship is available for high-achieving Indigenous students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Arts.

Support for these scholarships mark the next phase of Bupa’s ongoing relationship with the University of Western Australia following its sponsorship of Perth Festival, which was established by the University of Western Australia in 1953.

General Manager of WA Partnerships at Bupa, Clinton Byrne said, “advancing mental health capabilities within the healthcare industry is a major priority for our company across Australia.”

“We are hopeful that the Bupa Mental Health scholarship will encourage a high-achieving individual to pursue a rewarding career in the industry and leave a legacy we can all benefit from,” said Mr Byrne.

One in five Australian’s experience mental health problems with suicide the leading cause of death of young people – accounting for one-third of deaths of Australians aged 15–24.

The Bupa Indigenous Scholarship for Arts will further bolster The University of Western Australia’s offerings to Indigenous students such as the ability to gain entry without an ATAR and a thriving Indigenous Studies department.

“As a leading health and care company in Australia, we are passionate about using our resources to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

“We understand the importance of advancing education and employment opportunities for Indigenous people and will continue to create career and education pathways within Bupa and through external scholarships such as this,” said Mr Byrne.

Tayyeb Shah, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global Partnerships, University of Western Australia said, “we would like to thank Bupa for supporting these incredibly valuable scholarships in two priority areas for both the University of Western Australia and Bupa – these scholarships are currently available for any interested students.”

Applications for the two scholarships are open until Sunday 1 March 2020 with interested student encouraged to register via the links below:

Bupa Mental Health Scholarship

Bupa Indigenous Scholarship for Arts

In fact, of the top 10 days to get engaged in Australia, December, January and February occupy 7 of the most popular dates.[1]

However, what many newly engaged couples don’t think about are the financial elements of marriage such as health insurance, car insurance and even travel insurance for the honeymoon. Getting on top of these elements early can provide couples with big savings while helping them avoid costly expenses over the course of a marriage.

So, if you just made plans to tie the knot (or are about too…) now is the ideal time to ‘engage’ in some serious insurance admin.

Plan for when 2 become 3, 4, 5, …

While you and your partner may be covered by an existing policy, any children you may have along the way are not covered unless you move to a family policy. Once you upgrade to family cover, make sure you add any new members of the family to the policy as soon as you have them. Even a furry addition to the family can be covered under a separate pet insurance policy.

Put a ring on your car insurance policies 

If you and your partner both have cars, multi-car policies can potentially offer great savings and a lot less paperwork.

Don't get off to a rocky start on your honeymoon

While Medicare will cover your medical costs domestically, this is not the case in other countries where doctor and hospital bills can run into thousands. Travel insurance is relatively inexpensive, compared to the cost of a honeymoon and covers you for a variety of things that can go wrong such as overseas medical expenses, lost luggage and flight cancellations.

[1] https://www.easyweddings.com.au/business/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2019/07/Easy-Weddings-2019-Survey.pdf

In an Australian first, more than one and a half million Bupa customers* now have access to a suite of clinically proven Online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) courses with a guaranteed 100 per cent rebate upon course completion through their Extras cover.

A new partnership with online mental health treatment provider THIS WAY UP (TWU) will allow Bupa members* to access online programs for common mental health difficulties like stress, worry, anxiety, and depression.

Bupa’s Managing Director of Health Insurance, Dr Dwayne Crombie, said “the initiative is a great example of thinking about alternative ways to deliver healthcare to meet the needs of members while achieving equally compelling clinical outcomes”.

“Research has demonstrated that internet based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) delivered via accredited programs such as THIS WAY UP is effective in treating anxiety and depression,” Dr Crombie said.

“We know that two commonly cited barriers to receiving mental health support are limited access and the associated costs. Thanks to Bupa’s partnership with THIS WAY UP we can now address both – courses are available online 24/7, with 100 per cent of costs covered for eligible Bupa members.”

On average, 80% of people who complete one of THIS WAY UP’s courses benefit substantially, with 50% no longer being troubled by anxiety or depression.¹

Almost half of all Australians aged 16-85 years will experience a mental health disorder at some time in their life.²

“Internet-based treatment allows consumers to undertake treatment at a place and time that is suitable and convenient to them; this may be outside of normal business hours, or undertaken over the weekend. We know that for our members located in regional and remote areas of Australia, access to online health services can be a key enabler to receiving such support.”

Developed by a team of leading St Vincent’s clinical psychologists and psychiatrists, these courses teach specific coping skills to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression and are designed to mimic a course of CBT treatment you'd typically receive when seeing a clinician face-to-face. All courses on offer have been proven to reduce symptoms through clinical trials conducted by the Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression (CRUfAD), with the results published in leading scientific journals.

THIS WAY UP is part of the Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression (CRUfAD), a joint facility of St Vincent's Hospital and the University of New South Wales established to reduce the impact of anxiety and depressive disorders on individuals.

THIS WAY UP’s Clinical Director, Dr Mike Millard, welcomed the partnership.

“The mission of THIS WAY UP has always been to ease the burden of mental illness through providing clinically-proven mental health interventions in a way that is accessible to more Australians.

“It is often difficult to seek and access mental health treatment. By enabling individuals to enrol in our courses anytime anywhere, without the need to obtain a referral or waiting in line for the next available slot, we encourage consumers to access the therapeutic tools they need sooner than they might be able to otherwise.

“By further removing the barrier of treatment cost, we are certain that THIS WAY UP’s partnership with BUPA will empower more individuals to take action towards regaining their mental health. We commend Bupa for taking such a leadership role in funding innovative care beyond hospital walls”

*A benefit can only be paid after completion of a Bupa recognised Online CBT course. On selected Domestic and International Extras and Package Covers, including Advantage OSHC Cover. Yearly limits, fund rules and waiting periods apply.

1. THIS WAY UP. Available from: thiswayup.org.au/about-us/research
2. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Mental health services in Australia. Available from: www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mental-health-services

​Sally Damiani, Bupa’s Director of Customer Experience, said the initiative helps empower customers and improve transparency of health care costs.

“We know that our customer’s claiming experience with Bupa is a moment of truth, and often a driver for how they perceive the value and affordability of their cover,” Ms Damiani says.

“By educating our customers about why they didn’t have to pay anything, we’re helping them to understand how their cover works, reminding them about our network of providers so they’ll continue to have a positive experience, and reinforcing the value of their cover at the same time,” Ms Damiani said.

The Bupa Members First Extras Network helps members pay less for most services that are included in their Extras health cover such as most dental, optical, physio, chiro and podiatry. In return for Bupa paying providers a set fee, members receive higher benefits and have the certainty of knowing how much they’ll get back.

Ms Damiani said that the real time SMS functionality will roll out to all providers, not just Member First, in future stages.

“While it’s important to highlight why a customer has had a great experience, we also need to help them understand why they might not have got as much back on their claim as they expected, and how it can be avoided next time.

“The next stage we’re working on is focusing on customers who have had a gap experience at an extras provider, to acknowledge the fact that they’ve claimed and recommend their next best step.” Ms Damiani says.

Diabetes has been associated with an increased risk of vision and hearing loss. In Australia, diabetes is the biggest cause of preventable blindness. Recent studies have shown people living with diabetes are twice as likely to suffer hearing loss than those without the condition.

The more severe the diabetes, the more significant the risk of permanent hearing and vision loss. Because diabetes is a condition that affects blood vessels all through the body, persistently high blood sugar levels can impact the small blood vessels in the eyes and inner ear.

Bupa Optometrist Karen Makin says conditions like diabetic retinopathy (which affects up to 35% of Australians living with diabetes) often give no visual symptoms or can be undetected as changes to eye sight happen slowly over time.

“Symptoms often don’t emerge until the later stages of the condition when people suffer vision loss,” says Makin. “The good news is that in many cases, serious vision loss can be prevented with regular eye examinations and early treatment.”

Bupa Audiologist Vijay Marimuthu says changes to hearing can also be sudden and symptoms can creep up slowly over time.

“Hearing is something people neglect, but the impact of hearing loss is profound,” he says.“Undiagnosed hearing loss can affect your overall sense of wellbeing. It can lead to isolation, loss of confidence, break down in relationships and depression.”

“The earlier the hearing loss is detected, the more effective the treatment,” says Marimuthu.

Treatment may be as simple as wearing a hearing aid.

When you’re diagnosed with diabetes it’s important to have an eye test and a hearing test. After that it’s recommended you have a check up once a year or as recommended by your optometrist or audiologist.

As well as regular checks, the best way to protect your vision and hearing is to ensure your diabetes is well managed.

Find your nearest Bupa Optical and Hearing store.

Dr Cheryl Carcel, Clinical Research Fellow at The George Institute for Global Health, said that while growing numbers of countries have introduced policies and practices which require the integration of sex and gender analyses in competitive research grants and/or publications in journals, few equivalent policies or practices exist here.

“While all Australian Government departments and agencies were required to align their business practices with guidelines on the recognition of sex and gender by 1 July 2016, we found that eight of Australia’s top ten research funding agencies and four of our top ten journals still did not have policies on the collection, analysis and reporting of sex- and gender-specific health data,” she said.

“Australian medical research has fallen behind North America and Europe in recognising sex and gender as a key determinant of health, and its importance for health research and improved health outcomes.”

“Failure to keep pace with the rest of the world will see Australia become increasingly less competitive when applying for funding from international bodies and reduce international partnership opportunities with overseas organisations,” Dr Carcel added.

Head of Public Health and Medical Director at Bupa Australia Dr Zoe Wainer said that across a broad-range of health areas, data have been collected from men and generalised to women, but a growing body of research shows that this approach was no longer appropriate.

“We know that differences exist between men and women for conditions that cause the greatest health burden in Australia and globally including cancer, cardiometabolic disease, mental illness and substance use, and dementia.”

“While Australian researchers are at the forefront of expanding the global knowledge base on sex and gender differences in health, we clearly need to do better in translating that into practice,” she said.

Amongst the paper’s authors are representatives of leading educational institutions, including UNSW, University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of Queensland, Macquarie University and La Trobe University as well as the Australian Human Rights Commission and The National Heart Foundation.

Dr Wainer added that it was time for stakeholders across the board to ensure that health research and the medical profession that relies on it reflects current evidence to deliver the best health outcomes and most efficient care for Australians.

“We’re calling on universities and other training institutions, learned academies and professional societies, governments, medical and health research funders, peer-reviewed journals and industry to address this gap in medical research and ensure that Australian science continues to be world leading,” said Dr Wainer.

This study investigates how Australian-Government supported technology can support the coordination of highly-personalised care across primary, secondary, and hospital-level clinics as well as between public and private services.

This project will use new and emerging technologies as the vehicle to enhance self-assessment and highly personalised care for young people at the first point of contact with a mental health service to support person-centred and outcomes-focused care.

Importantly, researchers will partner with young people, their families and health professionals throughout the project, and will collaboratively use research findings to inform national policy and practice.

Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, said: “Mental health is our great national challenge. Despite a significant investment in services, many people find it difficult to access the care they need.

The project was awarded funding in the recent Bupa Health Foundation competitive funding round focused on improving mental health models of care in Australia.

A/Professor Annette Schmiede, Bupa Health Foundation’s Executive Leader, said “Mental health is a key focus for the Bupa Health Foundation and investment in research and development at a systems level is needed to ensure best outcomes for patients and the health system are achieved.”

Professor Ian Hickie, Co-Director, Health and Policy at The University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre, said “This program of practical health-services research, at the regional scale, is just what the Australian health system needs. In an area that has been poorly-funded historically and under-researched, we will use an evidence-based and data-driven approach to provide genuine integration of personal care. The project uses new digital technologies combined with a continuous and streamlined circle of care."

“We are thrilled to have the University of Sydney and its linked headspace services working with St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Private Psychiatry Clinics and Sydney Local Health District Services to deliver this project. The backing of the Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network for enabling technologies has also been critical. It is now possible to have people working collaboratively at the regional level and move beyond their individual service settings to really meet the needs of young people with major mental health problems”, Professor Hickie said.

Discover more about about the Bupa Health Foundation. Since 2005, the Foundation has invested more than $32 million in over 130 projects, focused on translating Australian research into real health and care improvements.

"A significant proportion also scored highly on the measures of loneliness, stress, anxiety and felt pressure to succeed in their future studies in another country; while one in three are not certain they could access social support in a time of need. These findings are concerning because we would expect these risks to manifest even more poorly after students arrive in Australia to study and without supports like friends and family," said Dr Tomyn. 

Australia boasts world-class universities and our status as a study-abroad destination of choice injects $32 billion into the economy each year. However, many international students studying in Australia experience poor mental health.

Earlier this year, the Victorian Coroners Prevention Unit handed down its findings into the suicide deaths of 27 international students, finding that international students were significantly less likely to seek help than their Australian peers.

In 2019, Bupa partnered with QS Enrolment Solutions to survey prospective international and overseas students about their pre-departure mental wellbeing.

“There are a number of challenges that international students must overcome, and nurturing mental wellness is foundational to seeing students succeed," said Chris Strods.

Bupa provides a wide array of health services to international students, including a 24/7 support line staffed by registered nurses, dedicated on-campus support and health services, and specialised Overseas Student Health Insurance.

“Mental health and wellbeing is a key focus area for Bupa. We partner with many leading educational institutions around Australia and we’ve been developing programs and initiatives to better support the needs of their students,” said Sarah Thorne, General Manager Educational Partnerships, Bupa.

“With this research, we’re now able to deepen our understanding of the issues impacting international students and tailor the support services we offer to international students to better support them while studying in Australia.”

Bupa’s report makes six recommendations to improve international students’ risk of experiencing poor mental health:

1. Build mental health awareness and reduce stigma to enhance help-seeking behaviour among international students.
2. A greater focus on early intervention as a means to reduce the prevalence and severity of mental illness.
3. Create more opportunities for international students to build social connections and support networks while studying in Australia
4. Undertake further research to address the limited published data concerning international students within the scientific literature.
5. Mental health first aid certification for university teaching staff.
6. Support students to sleep well, exercise often and have a healthy diet.

The full report - The 2019 Mental Wellbeing Survey of Prospective International and Overseas Students - can be downloaded below.

Discover more about Bupa's Overseas Students Health Cover.

Dr Young accepted the award at a ceremony in Melbourne.

“A career in research can be a difficult path to forge, even if you’re lucky to have a great mentor as I do in Professor Phil Morgan. When the finalists were announced I was beyond inspired by the company I found myself in. It’s an honour to be named the overall winner and I can’t wait to use this support to create better health outcomes for men’s health,” said Dr Young.

The Emerging Health Researcher Awards acknowledge the valuable contributions of health researchers to improve the health and wellbeing of our community, and to provide resources and support to aid their career development.

In addition to the prizes awarded to each finalist, a number of nominees were invited to attend a workshop on research impact.

Delivered by Dr Tamika Heiden of Research Impact Academy, the interactive session provided valuable tools to help researchers demonstrate the impact of their work to funding bodies and the community.

Emerging Health Researcher Award 2019 – awarded $20,000 to further the recipient’s research career

Dr Myles Young, Post-Doctoral Fellow, Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Education, University of Newcastle

Finalists – awarded $5,000 to further each recipient’s research career

Dr Myles Young, Post-Doctoral Fellow, Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Education, University of Newcastle

Dr Jie Bin Lew, Post-doctoral Research Fellow, Cancer Research Division, Cancer Council NSW

Dr Gemma Sharp, NHMRC Early Career Research Fellow in the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Monash University

Dr Saree Alnaghy, Research Associate, Centre for Medical Radiation Physics, The University of Wollongong

Dr Aideen McInerney-Leo, NHMRC Research Fellow, Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland

To learn more about each of the finalists read our announcement.

Commendations – awarded $1,000 to further each recipient’s research career

Dr Tatiana Soares da Costa, Research Fellow, Latrobe University - Developing new antibiotic products to overcome drug resistant bacteria

Dr Jane Davies, Senior Clinical Research Fellow, Menzies School of Health Research - Working to eliminate Hepatitis B virus in the Northern Territory.

Dr Lining (Arnold) Ju, Postdoctoral Fellow, Heart Research Institute, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, The University of Sydney - Developing biotechnologies for the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Dr Mark Deady, Post-doctoral Research Fellow, Black Dog Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW - Mental health of high-risk individuals and appropriate interventions.

Dr Kathryn Eastwood, Research Fellow, Critical Care Research, Monash University - Developing novel tools to reduce the burden on emergency health services.

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We all know that music can help people feel relaxed or energised, but can it really make a genuine difference to athletic performance?

According to the Melbourne Vixens netball team music plays a powerful role in the players’ mental preparation ahead of a game and during training, acting as a push factor against the feelings of anxiety and nervousness and boosting the team’s energy levels.

“Before our court sessions and in the gym, we have the music playing in the background, to get everyone in the mood to really work hard,” team captain Kate Moloney said.

Studies looking at the effect of music on athletic performance have indicated that those who listen to music during exercise often have enhanced output.

Boxers reported improved quality and intensity of training, martial artists performed better in karate drills and runners were found to have improved endurance on a treadmill.

Bupa's Psychological Health and Safety Specialist, Emily Meates, says the benefits of listening to music while exercising don't stop there.

“As well as performance improvement, research has indicated that listening to music in training or preparation for competition can influence our emotional state and physiological arousal," she said.

"It can encourage a more positive mood, act as both a stimulant to “psych ourselves up”, a sedative to “calm down” and, depending on the intensity of exercise, may also lower perception of effort - meaning we may find it more enjoyable.”

Kate Moloney says the team have carefully selected playlists with different songs for different purposes, with teammate Emily Mannix often taking the lead.

“Music is something that can bring people together. Quite often your music taste reflects your personality and it can be a real talking point between teammates.”

“We all have such different tastes, so it’s really nice to get to know each other a little bit better and find out what motivates everyone.”

You can access the Vixens’ favourite playlists on spotify here.

Continue reading:

Despite her myriad of achievements, Vixens Captain Kate Moloney says it’s the times she didn’t win or wasn’t picked for a team that ultimately shaped her success. She shares her story with Bupa Health Link here.

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This year, the five finalists showcase the diversity of Australian health and medical research, working on public health, medical engineering, laboratory science and clinical research spanning fields including genetics, cancer and mental health.

Bupa Health Foundation Executive Leader Annette Schmiede congratulated the finalists.

The 2019 Emerging Health Researcher Awards finalists are:

• Dr Aideen McInerney-Leo, a genetic counsellor and Research Fellow at the University of Queensland who is focused on improving the care and overall health of people who are undergoing genetic testing.

• Dr Saree Alnaghy - a Research Associate from the University of Wollongong who has developed a robotic device that mimics the movement of tumors to help reduce errors in radiation cancer treatments.

• Dr Gemma Sharp - a clinical psychologist and NHMRC Early Career Research Fellow at Monash University who is developing online tools to help prevent serious health disorders associated with body image.

• Dr Jie Bin Lew - a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Cancer Council NSW who has developed a predictive modelling tool to evaluate the most effective ways to prevent bowel cancer in Australia.

• Dr Myles Young - a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the University of Newcastle who is developing tailored interventions to improve the physical and mental health of men

Each finalist will receive $5,000 and support to help further their career. The award winner will be announced on 27^th August and will receive an additional $20,000.

Since this award began in 2012 the Foundation has invested $374,000 to support Australia’s emerging leaders in health research.

Dr Aideen McInerney-Leo, NHMRC Research Fellow, Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland

Nominated by: Professor Peter Soyer, Director, Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute

Dr McInerney-Leo is a clinical researcher and genetic counsellor. Her research program is highly transdisciplinary, involving collaborations in which she utilised genome sequencing to identify new genes, as well as research that identifies ethical issues, patient and family concerns and appropriate protocols to guide genetic testing in clinical practice.

To date, this research has:

• identified new genes for conditions which affect how the skeleton develops
• documented highly variable clinician practice with regard to genetic test ordering and interpretation, and
• tested human versus computer methods of consenting patients to genetic testing.

Aideen is now leading a research program addressing the translation of genetic testing for melanoma, a highly prevalent cancer in Australia, into clinical practice.

Dr Saree Alnaghy, Research Associate, Centre for Medical Radiation Physics, The University of Wollongong

Nominated by: Professor Anatoly Rozenfeld, Director of the Center for Medical Radiation Physics, The University of Wollongong

Dr Alnaghy is a researcher in the field of medical radiation physics, focusing on improving quality assurance in cancer treatments with radiation therapy.

Dr Alnaghy has been working on a world-first robotic measurement system that can perform quality-assurance for complex radiotherapy treatments.

This research has the potential to reduce radiation-related errors in the clinic by allowing clinicians to identify issues in patient safety and answer fundamental clinical questions.

Dr Gemma Sharp, NHMRC Early Career Research Fellow in the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Monash University

Nominated by: Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, Director, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre and Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr Sharp is a psychological and biomedical researcher whose work focuses on physical appearance and body image concerns, and the serious disorders, such as eating disorders, which stem from them.

Dr Sharp is currently collaborating with The Butterfly Foundation and Instagram to create an online intervention tool for body image concerns. Using artificial intelligence to produce a chatbot, this research has the potential to assist millions of people around the world and address a major health issue affecting Australians.

Dr Jie Bin Lew, Post-doctoral Research Fellow, Cancer Research Division, Cancer Council NSW

Nominated by: Dr Eleonora Feletto, Research Fellow, Cancer Council NSW

Looking at population-level impacts and implementation of national health initiatives, Dr Lew’s work is focused on improving the participation rates in life-saving preventative screening programs for bowel cancer.

Despite a 90% success rate with early intervention and treatment, bowel cancers remain the second highest cancer killer in Australia. Dr Lew’s predictive modelling platform has the potential to increase the efficacy of public health campaigns and save many lives.

Dr Myles Young, Post-Doctoral Fellow, Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Education, University of Newcastle

Nominated by: Professor Philip Morgan, School of Education University of Newcastle

For seven years, Dr Young has led a research program developing and evaluating innovative, targeted interventions to improve men’s physical and mental health.

Dr Young has developed a range of innovative behavioural weight loss programs designed specifically for men and delivered online, supporting men to lose weight without requiring face-to-face counselling. In partnership with major health organisations (e.g. Diabetes WA), these programs are now being adopted by men and workplaces across Australia.

For more on the Bupa Health Foundation and Emerging Health Researcher Awards: bupa.com.au/foundation

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“I am content with everything I have achieved in my career to date and I know it’s the right time for myself, my family and the club,” Roughead said.

“To play this great game for such a long time and to have experienced success like we have is something I’ll never take for granted. I want to thank everyone at the Hawthorn Football Club for supporting me through all the highs and lows. The bonds and friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime.”

Making a name for yourself as a star footballer is one thing, but making a genuine difference to the health and wellbeing of Australians is, arguably, an even greater achievement.

Roughy had the nation holding their breath after a skin cancer diagnosis in 2016. A melanoma which he had cut out of his lip the year prior had come back after treatment and the cancer had spread to his lungs.

He took part in a new immunotherapy treatment, a combination of Opdivo (nivolumab) and Yervoy (ipilimumab) and was declared cancer-free just months later to the relief and astonishment of many.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: Peter "Huddo" Hudson's words of wisdom for retiring Hawk Jarryd Roughead and reflections on life after football.

The experience prompted him to sign on as an ambassador of the ‘Helping our Health’ campaign to raise awareness of the value of clinical trials in Australia.

“Initially, I thought the clinical trial was a bit of a long shot, but it saved my life. We need more trials to improve drugs and treatments. I don’t think there should be any negative stigma surrounding it,” he told Hamish McLachlan.

“A lot of people think that it’s only available to the people that are sick, but in actual fact, it’s for anyone that’s open to being a participant and willing to try different trials that could benefit not only people that are sick, but people that are fully healthy.”

He also became an advocate for sun safety and skin cancer awareness, encouraging footy fans to cover up and undertake regular skin checks.

In honour of Jarryd Roughead and his stellar career, take a close look at your skin regularly, and always remember to slip, slop, slap, seek and slide.

When trying to work out if a mole could be cancerous, remember the ABCDE of skin checking:

A = Asymmetry: Look for spots that are uneven and lack symmetry.

B = Border: Look out for spots with a border that is spreading, notched, irregular or blurred.

C = Colour: Look out for spots made up of more than one colour e.g. brown, black, red, white or blue.

D = Diameter: Look out for spots that are larger than 6 millimetres, or are growing bigger.

E = Evolving: Look out for spots that are changing in shape, colour, elevation, firmness or another trait (such as itching, bleeding or crusting).None of these signs mean that the mole IS cancerous, however they are indications that you should promptly get the mole or spot checked by a health professional.

People who are at high risk of developing skin cancer (e.g. those who work outdoors or who have a family or personal history of skin cancer) should also have a skin check with a qualified health professional every 3-12 months, or as often as your doctor recommends.

Bupa is the official Health and Care Partner of the Hawthorn Football Club.

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