45-49 year old Health Check

A health check for people aged 45-49 with identified risk factors has been introduced. Risk factors included high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being overweight, smoking, family history of disease (e.g. cancer), lack of physical activity and poor diet. The aim of this health check is to find identify, prevent, or lessen the effect of disease. The check includes updating your medical history, a comprehensive physical exam (including an ECG) and relevant pathology. Following up any problems identified and providing advice and information on how to make lifestyle changes to improve your health. The check takes approximately 1 hour and conducted by both the practice nurse and the doctor.

Health Assessments over 75 years

Patients aged 75 years and over, a full medical review once a year is recommended. The aim of this assessment is to improve the patient’s health and help them maintain independence. Approximately 45mins is spent with the nurse gathering information and performing memory and mood screening along with a full physical examination, ECG & Spirometry and a review of the patient’s medications. The doctor will then discuss the findings with the patient and work out an ongoing plan.

GP Management Plan (GPMP)

To be eligible for a GP Management Plan (GPMP) the Patient must have a chronic (or terminal) medical condition, as determined by the doctor. The initial assessment will determine the patient’s health care needs, problems, and relevant conditions. A plan is then developed specific to each patient, setting out guidelines for treatment and/or services. At the next visit an agreement will be made on the management goals between  the patients and the doctor for the changes to be achieved by the treatment and services identified in the plan. A date set for reviewing the patient’s progress against the plan (3-12 months).

Team Care Arrangements (TCA)

A team care arrangement is indicated for eligible patients whose chronic or terminal medical condition requires ongoing care from a multidisciplinary team of at least three health providers, including your general practitioner. Up to five subsidised visits to registered allied health providers are provides through Medicare each calendar year, as identified by the doctor or through the GPMP. Allied health providers include Chiropractors, Dieticians, Diabetes Educators, Osteopaths, Exercise Physiologists, Physiotherapists and Podiatrist.

Mental Health Care Plans

The Mental Health Care Plan provide a framework for GPs to undertake early intervention, assessment and management of patients with mental disorders, as well as providing referral pathways to clinical psychologist and allied mental health service providers.