Epichealth would like to alert patients to a scam currently circulating via SMS messages that falsely claim to be from HotDoc.

These fraudulent messages are designed to create a sense of urgency and may ask recipients to click a link or provide personal and banking information. HotDoc has confirmed that these messages are not legitimate and should not be trusted.

Importantly, HotDoc has advised that there has been no data breach associated with these scam messages. The scammers are using publicly available contact details and other methods to target individuals while impersonating trusted organisations.

What Should You Do If You Receive One of These Messages?

If you receive a message claiming to be from HotDoc and asking you to take urgent action:

• Do not click any links.
• Do not reply to the message.
• Do not provide any personal or banking information.
• Delete the message immediately.
• Report it as spam through your mobile device.

How to Identify Genuine HotDoc Communications

HotDoc has advised that legitimate communications will generally include at least three identifying details, such as:

• Your name
• The name of your clinic or doctor
• Appointment or booking information

Patients should also be aware that:

• Official HotDoc website links only direct to hotdoc.com, hotdoc.com.au, or hotdoc.io.
• Official HotDoc emails come from @hotdocmail.com.au, @hotdoc.com, @hotdoc.com.au, or @hotdoc.io.
• HotDoc does not make unsolicited phone calls to patients. They will only contact patients by phone if the patient has first contacted HotDoc Support.

Stay Vigilant

Scammers frequently impersonate medical clinics, healthcare providers, banks, government agencies, and other trusted organisations through text messages, emails, and phone calls.

If you are ever unsure whether a message relating to your appointment is genuine, we encourage you to contact your clinic directly before taking any action.

The safety and privacy of our patients are extremely important to us, and we will continue to share updates whenever we become aware of potential scams affecting our community.

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EPICHEALTH MEDICAL CLINICS

We are pleased to advise that Dr Sukhdeep Baweja will commence consulting at Epichealth Portarlington from 3 July.

Dr Baweja will continue his existing consulting sessions at Epichealth Ocean Grove Marketplace while also expanding his availability to the Portarlington community every Friday.

He is a highly experienced General Practitioner (MD, FRACGP) and RACGP-accredited GP Trainer and Supervisor, with a strong commitment to comprehensive, patient-centred care.

His clinical interests include:

• Preventative medicine
• Chronic disease management, including complex conditions
• Children’s and family health
• Coordinated care for patients with multiple medical needs

Dr Baweja is highly regarded for his warm and approachable style, and his focus on building long-term relationships with patients and families.

Patients can now book appointments at Epichealth Portarlington by calling 4206 7200 or booking online:
Book Epichealth Portarlington

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EPICHEALTH PORTARLINGTON

As we head into the colder months, protecting yourself and your family against the flu is more important than ever. We’re pleased to share that flu vaccines have now arrived at all Epichealth clinics.

Our clinics are offering both government-funded flu vaccines for eligible patients, as well as private flu vaccines for those who do not meet the eligibility criteria. Private flu vaccines are available for $25 per dose.

Why get your flu vaccine?

The flu (influenza) is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious illness, particularly for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce your risk of getting sick and helps protect those around you.

Who can get a free flu vaccine?

You may be eligible for a government-funded flu vaccine if you are in one of the following groups:

• Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
• Adults aged 65 years and over
• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
• People aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions, including:
  • Chronic heart disease
  • Chronic lung conditions (including asthma)
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney disease
  • Neurological conditions
  • Weakened immune systems

If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, our team can help guide you.

Book your appointment

Appointments are now available across all Epichealth locations. When booking online, please select your preferred doctor to secure your flu vaccination appointment.

You can also call your nearest clinic:

• Epichealth Ocean Grove Marketplace: (03) 5256 2500
• Epichealth Ocean Plaza: (03) 4246 0300
• Epichealth Portarlington: (03) 4206 7200

Our reception team will be happy to assist you with booking.

Protect yourself and your community this flu season — book your flu vaccine today.

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EPICHEALTH MEDICAL CLINICS

At Epichealth Ocean Grove Marketplace, we understand that finding time for your mental health during the week can be challenging. Between work commitments, family responsibilities and busy schedules, many people struggle to attend appointments during standard business hours.

To help make support more accessible, Hayden Bell, General Psychologist at Epichealth Marketplace, is now offering Sunday appointments.

Sunday sessions provide a flexible option for patients who may not be able to attend during the week, making it easier to prioritise your wellbeing without disrupting your routine.

Hayden works with clients of all ages and supports people experiencing a wide range of concerns, including:

• Stress management

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Workplace challenges

• Relationship difficulties

• Life transitions

• Goal setting

• Vocational counselling

• Action coaching

His approach focuses on helping people develop practical strategies and tools that support long-term wellbeing. Rather than simply managing symptoms, Hayden works with clients to build skills that help them move forward with confidence and resilience.

Whether you’re navigating a challenging period, feeling overwhelmed, or simply looking for guidance to achieve personal goals, psychological support can make a meaningful difference.

If weekday appointments don’t suit your routine, Sunday sessions may be the right fit for you.

You can book an appointment online via our website:
https://www.epichealth.com.au/ocean-grove-marketplace-booking/

Book your appointment today by calling (03) 5256 2500 or visiting us at:

Ocean Grove Marketplace Shopping Centre
Shop 18, 19 & 20, 2-20 Kingston Downs Dr
Ocean Grove VIC 3226

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EPICHEALTH MARKETPLACE

The Health Impacts of UV Exposure and Tanning in Australia

Australia experiences some of the highest levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the world. While a suntan is often culturally associated with health and vitality, medically it represents a biological response to skin injury. Increased skin pigmentation following sun exposure is a visible sign of damage caused by UV radiation — not an indicator of wellbeing. There is no such thing as a safe tan.

Understanding How Tanning Occurs

When the skin is exposed to UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as solariums, specialised cells produce additional melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin colour, and its increased production causes the skin to darken. This process occurs as the body attempts to limit further UV penetration. However, the presence of a tan confirms that cellular damage has already taken place.

Contrary to common belief, a tan offers minimal protection against future UV exposure — roughly equivalent to SPF 3, depending on skin type. It does not prevent ongoing DNA damage, nor does it significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

The Broader Health Risks

Cumulative exposure to UV radiation significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, with two in three Australians diagnosed during their lifetime. Each year, more than 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer.

In addition to cancer risk, UV exposure is responsible for approximately 80% of visible facial ageing, including wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation changes.

Artificial Tanning and Cosmetic Products

Artificial tanning methods that involve UV exposure, such as solariums, also cause skin damage and increase cancer risk.

Cosmetic tanning products — including lotions, mousses and spray tans — temporarily darken the outer layer of the skin without stimulating melanin production. While these products may provide the appearance of a tan, they do not offer protection from UV radiation. Some products contain low-level sunscreen (SPF 4–15), but this protection is limited, short-lived and insufficient as a primary sun protection strategy.

Products marketed as “tan accelerators”, available in topical, oral or injectable forms, claim to stimulate melanin production. However, long-term use has been associated with increased health risks, and oral products may cause side effects such as nausea, headaches and skin irritation.

Evidence-Based Sun Protection

Effective sun protection requires a comprehensive approach, particularly when UV levels reach 3 or above — a frequent occurrence across much of Australia throughout the year. Recommended protective measures include:

• Wearing sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible

• Applying SPF50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before outdoor exposure

• Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently after swimming or excessive perspiration

• Wearing a broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire-style hat

• Using sunglasses that comply with Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1067

• Seeking shade whenever possible

Sunscreen should be used in combination with these protective strategies rather than as a standalone measure.

A suntan should not be interpreted as a sign of health. Instead, it reflects the skin’s response to UV-induced injury. Given Australia’s high UV environment and significant burden of skin cancer, consistent and comprehensive sun protection is essential.

If you have concerns about your skin or would like a professional skin check, you can book an appointment online at www.epichealth.com.au. Early detection is key — schedule your skin check today with us.

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EPICHEALTH MEDICAL CLINICS

Permanent VR GP position for our new GP clinic Epichealth Medical Clinic Warrnambool (co-located with Warrnambool Medicare Urgent Care Clinic), DPA, MM3

Warrnambool Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is commissioned by Western Victoria PHN with funding from the Victorian Government. It is operated by Epichealth Medical Group. Currently, Epichealth would like to broaden the scope of our
service by opening a GP Clinic, Epichealth Medical Clinic Warrnambool, co-located with Warrnambool Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.

We’re looking for a dedicated General Practitioner to join Epichealth Medical Clinic Warrnambool to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care in a supportive, modern clinical environment. If you’re passionate about excellent healthcare and enjoy working within a collaborative team, this role is for you.

About Warrnambool:
Warrnambool is located roughly 265 km southwest of Melbourne’s CBD. It is known for its stunning beaches, rich maritime history, and its role as a gateway to the Great Ocean Road.

During summer, the city becomes a popular tourist destination for a range of water activities, while from June to September, it is famous for whale watching.

Warrnambool is a DPA, MM3 location. This position may be suitable for GPs who are under 10-year moratorium.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide patient-focused primary and urgent care following best-practice clinical standards.
• Work closely with our Practice Manager and multidisciplinary team to ensure seamless, high-quality service delivery.
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation and uphold all RACGP and Medicare requirements.
• Actively participate in continuous quality improvement, innovation, and risk management.
• Support patients in making informed decisions about their care.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and advance clinical skills.

What We’re Looking For:

• Full vocational registration.
• Experience in general practice, urgent care, community health, or emergency medicine.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to patient safety and quality care.
• Proficiency with Practice Management Software (e.g., Best Practice).
• Knowledge of clinical governance frameworks and Medicare billing processes.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work with a co-located Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
• Supportive team culture and collaborative work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Play a key role in improving health outcomes in our community.
• Flexible hours – choose your own shifts with ease using our rostering system.
• Competitive Pay

How to Apply

Please send us a Cover Letter outlining: Why you would be a great fit; your current &; ongoing availability;
as well as an up-to-date resume to recruitment@epichealth.com.au.

For further details about this position please contact
Louisa Radley, Practice Manager – Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
Tel. 0409 354 910
Email: lradley@epichealth.com.au

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We are delighted to congratulate Dr Ama Liyanapatabendi on achieving her Fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) — a wonderful milestone in her medical career. This achievement recognises her dedication, expertise, and commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care.

Dr Ama graduated in 2009 and worked as a doctor in Sri Lanka for eight years before migrating to Australia in 2017. Since then, she has gained valuable experience working across multiple departments at Albury Wodonga Health and University Hospital Geelong, before pursuing her passion for general practice.

As a General Practitioner, Dr Ama has special interests in general medicine, mental health, and family planning. She is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental healthcare experience and warmly welcomes patients from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQI community.

Dr Ama is also a proud mum to a beautiful baby girl and enjoys supporting individuals and families through all stages of life, particularly during the challenges and joys of parenthood.

From next Monday, Dr Ama will be consulting at Epichealth Ocean Plaza and Epichealth Portarlington. We are proud to have her as part of the Epichealth team and look forward to continuing this journey with her.

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We are pleased to welcome Dr Sonal Bhatt to the Epichealth Marketplace team. Dr Bhatt brings over 15 years of medical experience gained in India and South Africa, and is currently practising in Australia as a General Practitioner Registrar. Her principal clinical interests include chronic disease management, aged care, preventive medicine, and the health, growth, and development of children.

Dr Bhatt is dedicated to providing patient-centred, evidence-based, and holistic care, with a strong focus on prevention and long-term wellbeing.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Gujarati.

Book your appointment today by calling (03) 5256 2500 or visiting us at:

Ocean Grove Marketplace Shopping Centre
Shop 18, 19 & 20, 2-20 Kingston Downs Dr
Ocean Grove VIC 3226

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EPICHEALTH MARKETPLACE

We are thrilled to announce the opening of our brand-new Epichealth Ocean Grove Clinic, conveniently located at Shops 18, 19 & 20 in the Ocean Grove Marketplace Shopping Centre.

Our new clinic is larger, modern, and designed with our community in mind — featuring expanded consultation rooms, comfortable waiting areas, and upgraded facilities to enhance your healthcare experience. With this expansion, we’re excited to welcome new patients and provide the same quality care and compassion that Epichealth is known for.

Expanded Facilities and New Opportunities

With this growth also comes new opportunities — we are currently seeking General Practitioners, Specialists, Allied Health Professionals, and Medico-Legal Providers to join our team. Our consulting rooms provide the perfect environment to grow your practice in a highly accessible location, serving Ocean Grove and nearby suburbs including Barwon Heads, Wallington, Point Lonsdale, and Queenscliff. For more information please contact headoffice@epichealth.com.au.

After Hours Service

Our After Hours Service is now available at the new Ocean Grove Marketplace clinic:
     Tuesdays & Thursdays: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
     Saturdays & Sundays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

During these times, you can walk in or call our dedicated After Hours phone line at

(03) 5255 4600.

After-hours care provides accessible primary healthcare outside of regular clinic hours and outside of hospital emergency departments. It is designed for patients who need timely medical attention that does not require emergency-level care.

Please note that our after-hours service is not a replacement for your regular GP consultations, which you should continue as usual.

We invite you to visit our new clinic, meet our caring team, and experience our upgraded facilities firsthand.
Book online: https://www.epichealth.com.au/ocean-grove-marketplace-booking/
Walk in anytime during opening hours
Call us: (03) 5256 2500

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Epichealth is pleased to announce that our Ocean Grove Marketplace clinic will be relocating to a larger and more modern space within the Marketplace shopping centre in early October 2025. The new facility will be located next to Subway and will provide an enhanced environment for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Enhancing Patient Care

This relocation reflects our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services to the community. The new premises will offer:

• Expanded capacity to welcome more patients

• Additional consulting rooms for new doctors and services

• Upgraded facilities and improved comfort for patients and staff

• The same trusted care that patients have come to expect from Epichealth

Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals

As part of this expansion, Allied Health rooms will be available at the new Ocean Grove Marketplace location. It is also an accessible location to nearby suburbs such as Barwon Heads, Wallington, Marcus Hill, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.

We invite Allied Health professionals, Specialists, and Medico-Legal providers to express their interest in practicing within our new clinic. This is a valuable opportunity to grow your practice, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and contribute to the health and wellbeing of the Ocean Grove community.

For more information or to express interest, please contact us at headoffice@epichealth.com.au.

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