GP Consultations

Many Australians live with one or more chronic conditions. Our GP is experienced in helping patients manage ongoing illness effectively, with the goal of reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving quality of life.

What is a Chronic Disease Management Plan?

If you have a chronic condition that has been present for at least six months or is likely to be present for that time, your GP can prepare a GP Management Plan (GPMP) for you. This is a written plan that outlines your health goals, the treatments and services you need, and the actions you will take to manage your condition. It is reviewed and updated annually. A Team Care Arrangement (TCA) can also be prepared alongside a GPMP, which allows you to access Medicare-rebated visits with allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, dietitians, podiatrists, and exercise physiologists. Up to five allied health visits per calendar year are covered under this arrangement.

Common chronic conditions we manage include:

Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)

Diabetes management involves regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, HbA1c blood tests, kidney and eye checks, foot care, and medication or insulin management. Your GP will coordinate your care across relevant specialists including endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and podiatrists. Lifestyle modification including diet and exercise is a cornerstone of management and our GPs can refer you to a dietitian and diabetes educator under a care plan.

High blood pressure (Hypertension)

Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms, which is why regular checks are essential. Uncontrolled high blood pressure significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss. Management includes lifestyle advice, monitoring, and medication where appropriate. Blood pressure targets will be discussed and agreed with you individually.

High cholesterol

Elevated cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Management depends on your overall cardiovascular risk profile, not your cholesterol number alone. Your GP will assess your total risk and discuss whether lifestyle changes, medication, or both are appropriate for you.

Asthma

Asthma management focuses on minimising symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and ensuring you have a current written Asthma Action Plan. Your GP will review your inhaler technique, ensure you are on the most appropriate medication regimen, and identify and address triggers where possible.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a progressive lung condition most commonly caused by smoking. Management includes smoking cessation support, appropriate inhaler therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation referral, and monitoring for complications. Annual influenza vaccination and five-yearly pneumococcal vaccination are strongly recommended for all patients with COPD.

Thyroid conditions

Both underactive (hypothyroidism) and overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid conditions require ongoing monitoring with blood tests and medication adjustment over time. Your GP will manage your thyroid function and refer to an endocrinologist where needed.

Heart disease

Patients with a history of heart attack, angina, heart failure, or other cardiac conditions require regular review of symptoms, medications, blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle factors. Your GP coordinates your care alongside your cardiologist and ensures your risk factors are well controlled.

Arthritis

Both osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis (including rheumatoid arthritis) are managed in general practice. Management may include pain relief, physiotherapy referral, anti-inflammatory medications, and for inflammatory arthritis, referral to a rheumatologist for specialist review and disease-modifying therapy.