When Marek Gorski started with Monash Health 31 years ago, he was our first-ever Exercise Physiologist.
Working initially with inpatients and outpatients, Marek now works with sub-acute inpatients at Kingston Centre, providing tailored exercise programs that accommodate the specific physical and mental needs of our consumers.
Marek says the complexity of his patients’ needs means that each patient needs more assistance and additional resources.
“The approach can be complex,” he says. “We have two gyms. They look like typical gyms but with highly specialised equipment that is also easy to use.”
Exercise Physiologists are tertiary qualified Allied Health Professionals governed by Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). They specialise in the delivery of exercise, lifestyle and behavioural modification programs for the prevention and management of chronic diseases and injuries.
The range of conditions Marek accommodates can be broad, with sub-acute rehab patients typically managing neurological and musculo-skeletal conditions such as stroke recovery, Parkinson’s disease, brain tumors and joint replacements. Compounded by the deconditioning that inpatients can experience with the sedentary nature of hospital stays, Marek says his work is vital to keep patients active and prevent functional decline.
“They can spend so much time bed-bound before they get to us – that’s where we come in.”
Spending the last 21 years at Kingston Centre, Marek has been pivotal in growing the profession’s profile and expanding the Exercise Physiology team across Kingston Centre and Casey.
“There was not enough recognition for my profession,” he says.
Marek has played a significant role in advocating for the role of Exercise Physiology, and has worked closely with ESSA and university partners in growing the profession.
During his time at Monash Health, the Exercise Physiology team has grown from one to over 30 clinicians, with scope for further expansion. Exercise Physiologists are now employed across sub-acute, Community Health, Community Rehabilitation and Mental Health.
Marek is retiring at the end of December, but is keen to see the team continue to grow beyond his tenure.
“We are experiencing a higher patient demand. The number of patients referred to us can be overwhelming.”
Looking forward to retirement, Marek will spend more time doing the things he loves, like scuba diving, motorbike riding and overseas travel. Practicing what he preaches, Marek is “pretty fit and healthy” and enjoys staying active.
We wish Marek all the best in his retirement and thank him for the legacy in Exercise Physiology he will leave at Monash Health.
Thank you, Marek!
