Ms Dunning-Baker moved from Wollongong to Wagga Wagga in July 2023 and has worked as a Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist (OT) within the Ambulatory Rehabilitation Service ever since.
Her role sees her work in multiple settings across the region, including Temora and Wagga Wagga.
Regardless of the work setting, Ms Dunning-Baker says the service model is focused on patient-centred, goal-directed rehabilitation.
“As an OT, I look at an individual within their environments and consider what life roles and daily tasks they need, want and have to do,” Ms Dunning-Baker said.
This may include completing a functional assessment for independently living at home or working with a patient and their family to improve strength and range of motion in an impaired upper limb.
Ms Dunning-Baker may also work with equipment suppliers to determine the best seating and positioning solution for an individual’s mobility and daily living needs or complete a home visit to determine if a person’s home environment requires alterations to make it safe for them to return to.
When asked what she loves most about her job, Ms Dunning-Baker found it hard to pinpoint just one aspect.
“I like the diversity and flexibility of my role and being able to cover many different settings. I especially love going to Temora for outreach,” she said.
“I also enjoy the complexity of the patient population I work with. Often, I am working with very vulnerable people who are going through a significant life change.
“There is something special about being able to creatively problem solve with someone to help them achieve their own unique goals they didn’t otherwise think was possible.”
Outside of work, you will usually find Ms Dunning-Baker seeking out coffee, attending hot yoga or walking around the lake. She has a passion for exploring and has recently joined the Wagga Wilderness Walkers to get more involved in the local hiking community.
“I enjoy the pace of the lifestyle in Wagga and seeing the beautiful canola in spring. I really enjoy getting to explore surrounding towns and being much closer to Melbourne,” Ms Dunning-Baker said.
“From a working perspective, I have really enjoyed the endless opportunities to learn and grow.
“I feel fortunate to be working with experienced and knowledgeable colleagues who are always keen to support and share knowledge.
“I value the interprofessional collaboration of my team and the shared passion we have for rehabilitation. I just really enjoy my job!”
Occupational therapy is just one example of allied health. Other allied health services provided in MLHD include physiotherapy, speech pathology and nutrition and dietetics.
MLHD is celebrating Allied Health Professions Day (14 October) by showcasing some of our wonderful allied health workers, including Ms Dunning-Baker.
Here's where to find more information on working with MLHD in allied health.
