What are Care Plans?

Care plans are a detailed plan of care organised for a patient that has a chronic medical condition, who needs care from a doctor and two other health care providers. The health providers (or allied health professionals) are those that the doctor thinks may help you improve, or cope better with your condition. It sets out all the care providers in an organised fashion and helps coordinate the care from these providers more effectively.

This will give your doctor and other health professionals a better understanding of your care needs.

Who can benefit from a care plan?

Anyone who has a medical condition that has lasted more than six months (for example, diabetes, asthma, obesity, arthritis, depression a physical or intellectual disability) and needs care from at least two health care workers other than your doctor (for example, a dietitian, physiotherapist, podiatrist, psychologist, diabetic clinic, homecare, community nurse etc.)

There is no age restriction. Even children and teenagers may benefit from a formulated care plan.

What happens when your doctor organises a care plan for you?

You need to make an appointment with the receptionist at the downstairs desk or call 4254 2624. During this appointment, one of our nurses will formalise the care plan for you.

Together with the help from your doctor and detailed discussion with you, the nurse will help you determine;

•  What results you would like from the care plan; and

•  What other health care and community services you need to help you achieve your goal

Your medical, physical, psychological and social needs will be considered.

This appointment could take up to one hour, depending upon your needs.

Once the care plan has been developed, you will see your doctor again so he/she can discuss the findings and recommendations with you. He/she will also consult with the other service providers and plan for your care.

How often can care plans be done?

Care plans may be prepared every 12 months or more often if your condition changes or deteriorates. If you have had a care plan organised by another surgery, it cannot be repeated within 12 months.

Are there any costs?

Care plans are covered by Medicare. Visits to the Allied Health Professionals for example a physio, and dietitian are rebateable from Medicare (ie the service is bulk billed) However, each person is allowed only 5 visits per year and the appointments must be arranged through a care plan.

NOTE; IF YOU HAVE DIFFICULTY UNDERSTANDING OR SPEAKING ENGLISH, BRING SOMEONE WITH YOU THAT CAN.