Chronic Disease Management
Managing chronic diseases is a team effort that includes your doctor, nurses and specialized healthcare professionals. The goal is to help you manage your long-term health conditions better and to work with you on ways to prevent future health issues.
Support for Managing Chronic Health Conditions
Managing a chronic health condition can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. If you or a loved one are dealing with a long-term health issue, you may qualify for various supportive services designed to enhance and simplify your care:
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General Practitioner Management Plan (GPMP): Tailored specifically for you, this plan is crafted by your doctor to outline your treatment strategy and goals. It simplifies your health management by providing a clear roadmap.
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Team Care Arrangements (TCAs): Health care is a team effort. TCAs involve a collaborative approach with multiple health professionals to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
Creating Your Care Plan
Your care plan will be created by your regular doctor or a team member from their practice. It's crucial that this practitioner has been primarily responsible for your care in the past year and will continue to be so. The care plan includes:
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Detailed discussions to capture your healthcare needs and goals.
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A record of your agreement and the treatments, services, and review schedules necessary for your health management.
Chronic Conditions Covered
Chronic conditions typically last six months or longer and include illnesses such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and musculoskeletal conditions. Discussing your specific needs with your doctor can help determine the most suitable support for you.
Benefits of Care Plans
A well-structured care plan can make a significant difference. It helps in coordinating treatments, reducing unnecessary doctor visits, and ensuring your health information remains current. These plans empower you by actively involving you in your health care, helping set achievable goals, and identifying clear steps to improve your wellbeing.
Patient Eligibility and Allied Health Services
You must have a chronic or terminal medical condition to qualify for a GPMP. For those requiring multidisciplinary care, TCAs are also available. Allied health services complement these plans, offering up to five individual sessions per calendar year, with additional group services for patients managing type 2 diabetes. Reporting by allied health professionals after your initial and final sessions, along with additional reports as needed, ensures continuous monitoring and adaptation of your care plan.
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Can I request a specific doctor for my child’s visits?Yes, absolutely. We strive to maintain continuity of care and understand the importance of building a trusting relationship with a specific doctor. There may be times when your preferred doctor is not available and in such cases, an appointment with another doctor may be required.
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How can I prepare my child for their visits to the doctor?Preparing your child for their doctor's visit can help if they are feeling nervous. Talk to your child about what to expect and assure them that the doctor is there to help keep them healthy. Bringing a favourite toy or book can also provide them comfort. If your children are older, explaining the importance of health checks might help them understand the process better.
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What should I bring to my child’s health check-up?For each visit, please bring your child’s health book or any records of previous visits and vaccinatons. It’s also helpful to bring a list of questions or concerns you might have, as well as a summary of your child's recent health history, such as symptoms, medications, dietary habits, or behavioral changes.
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How often should I bring my child in for routine checks and vaccinations?Routine checks and vaccinations are important for monitoring your child's health and development. Generally, appointments are scheduled according to the National Immunisation Program guidelines. However, your doctor may recommend additional visits if needed. You can discuss any aspects of your child's specific health needs with your doctor.
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What should I do if my child becomes ill outside of normal clinic hours?If your child becomes unwell outside of the regular opening hours and you feel it is an emergency, please dial 000. For less urgent needs, consider contacting the WCH Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service or visiting an after-hours clinic.
Book Your Chronic Disease Management Consultation
Managing a chronic condition effectively requires the right support. If you're eligible, your doctor can tailor a care plan that fits your unique health needs. From coordinating with specialists to developing comprehensive management strategies, they are here to guide you every step of the way. Book your consultation with your doctor today.