New Toowoomba health clinic opens called Bowel Diagnostics Therapy Centre offering bulk billed appointments

A new Toowoomba clinic is removing the stigma from serious health conditions which were once considered taboo, with young patients lining up to take advantage of the service.

When a close family member of nurse Sharyn MacLachlan was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, she discovered a new-found passion for bowel diseases and began specialising in the field.

“I’m passionate about bringing awareness and early detection to anyone suffering bowel issues,” she said.

“Bowel conditions are really complex and a lot of people go symptom-free for a long time, making it harder to detect.”

Bowel Diagnostics Therapy Centre Toowoomba bowel nurse Sharyn MacLachlan. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Alongside practice manager Kayla Ferguson, the pair are running the newly established Bowel Diagnostics Therapy Centre in East Toowoomba.

The nurse-led clinic offers adult patients bulk-billed consultations and assessments for a range of conditions including IBS, bowel movement-related issues and early detection for bowel cancer.

Toowoomba marks the brand’s third clinic to open its doors after the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Ms MacLachlan said while the health topic was once stigmatised by the public, she had noticed young people were not only more open to discussing the issue but also more vigilant about having regular check-ups.

“Generations have passed down this idea that bowel conditions are taboo and not to be spoken about, but we’re seeing times are now changing and people are sick of suffering in silence,” she said.

“Now everyone realises age is no longer a factor and understand these issues affect everyone, we are overwhelmed by the amount of young people taking advantage of this.”

Bowel Diagnostics Therapy Centre Toowoomba practice manager Kayla Ferguson (left) and bowel nurse Sharyn MacLachlan. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The specialist nurse said it was important to provide a safe and relaxing environment for patients to feel comfortable as the service would ultimately make a difference in or save people’s lives.

Since the business opened at the Toowoomba Specialist Centre at Suite 13, 11 Scott St, nearly 80 patients have stepped into the clinic with no referral required.

For more information or to book an appointment phone [phone] or visit boweldoctors.com.au