2023 Archives - Illawarra Medical Centre https://illawarramedical.com.au/category/2023/ Providing superior health care to families and local businesses in the Ballajura area for more than 25 years Thu, 14 Dec 2023 05:10:28 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 COVID – Where are we at now? https://illawarramedical.com.au/covid-where-are-we-at-now/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=covid-where-are-we-at-now Thu, 14 Dec 2023 05:04:27 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=7474 It’s now been four years since COVID-19 was first reported and we have seen many shifts and changes in the approach to managing the disease during this time. While COVID is still prevalent in society today, it is no longer declared a public health emergency of international concern and most countries have now moved to […]

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It’s now been four years since COVID-19 was first reported and we have seen many shifts and changes in the approach to managing the disease during this time. While COVID is still prevalent in society today, it is no longer declared a public health emergency of international concern and most countries have now moved to living with the disease. But what does that mean for the everyday Australian?

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at the current situation and the latest recommended advice.

What is the current status globally?

According to the World Health Organization’s coronavirus dashboard, there have been more than 772 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported globally since the pandemic started, including almost 7 million deaths from the disease.

Vaccines were first approved in December 2020, to help combat the spread and impact of the disease, and more than 13.5 billion vaccines have been administered globally, up to the end of November 2023.

Currently, COVID has been recognised as an established and ongoing health issue that is no longer considered a public health emergency of international concern. That doesn’t, however, mean that COVID has gone away. In fact, there were still a reported 43,000+ confirmed cases worldwide, as at the end of November 2023.

What is the current situation in Australia?

In Australia, we have seen COVID enter a new wave, with reported cases increasing in recent weeks and expected to peak over the Christmas/New Year period. This new wave is largely attributed to the Omicron XBB variant.

Australia wide, there were a reported 9,429 cases, as at the week ending 1st December and 501 cases reported in Western Australia (WA).

With restrictions and mandatory reporting now eased in WA, it is difficult for people to know what to do if they have COVID. However, the Western Australian government’s advice remains to stay home until your symptoms have resolved for a minimum of 5 days and up to 10 days or more.

To help protect those most at risk of serious complications, it is recommended you avoid visiting or working in high-risk settings for at least 7 days after you test positive. This includes facilities such as hospitals, disability, mental health and aged care residential facilities, and other health care settings (such as GP clinics, physiotherapy, dentist etc).

If you have COVID and need to attend hospital or high-risk settings for urgent medical treatment, you can still do so. However, it is recommended you contact the facility in advance to let them know you have tested positive, so that they can put measures in place to protect their other patients.

If you do get COVID, contact your GP to see if you are eligible for antiviral treatment. Antivirals can help prevent severe symptoms developing and reduce transmission. They work best when taken within the first five days of developing symptoms or as soon as possible after a confirmed diagnosis and are recommended for those aged 70 and over or those with several additional risk factors.

How can I continue to protect myself and others from COVID?

COVID is by no means over and there are simple steps we can all take to protect others from the disease. This includes:

  • Staying up-to-date with your vaccinations.
  • Wearing a mask in all high-risk settings and where social distancing is not possible.
  • Practicing social distancing by keeping at least 1.5 metres or two arms lengths from others.
  • Maintaining good personal hygiene by washing hands often with soap and water, using hand sanitiser, and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
  • Staying home if you are unwell and getting tested if you display any COVID-19 symptoms.

For the latest COVID-19 information, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/government/covid-19-coronavirus

Do I still need to vaccinate against COVID and what vaccine should I have?

Vaccination remains an important tool in protecting yourself, your family and the community at large from COVID-19, particularly for those most at risk of severe complications from the disease.

There are a number of vaccine options available in Australia, including the newly released vaccines that specifically target the Omicron XBB variant.

A vaccine booster is currently recommended where it has been six months since the last vaccine dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection for:

  • those aged 75 years or older
  • adults aged 65-74 years
  • everyone 18 years and over with medical comorbidities, disability or complex health needs

ATAGI currently recommends the following boosters for different groups:

For more information, visit https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/covid-19-vaccines/getting-your-vaccination/booster-doses

Bookings at IMC

Illawarra Medical Centre currently has a range of COVID-19 vaccines available in stock, including the new XBB 1.5 vaccine.

To book in to receive your booster, please contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

If you are concerned about any COVID-19 symptoms or require antiviral treatments, please make an appointment with one of our GPs. Bookings can be made online or by phoning (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

 

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]]> What is MyMedicare and do I need to register? https://illawarramedical.com.au/what-is-mymedicare-and-do-i-need-to-register/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-is-mymedicare-and-do-i-need-to-register Thu, 09 Nov 2023 04:04:27 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=7396 MyMedicare was recently introduced by the Australian Government as a way to help strengthen Medicare and allow eligible patients to receive a more personalised and tailored approach from their regular health care provider. In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at how MyMedicare works, the benefits it can provide, and how to register […]

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MyMedicare was recently introduced by the Australian Government as a way to help strengthen Medicare and allow eligible patients to receive a more personalised and tailored approach from their regular health care provider.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at how MyMedicare works, the benefits it can provide, and how to register Illawarra Medical Centre (IMC) as your regular care team.

What is MyMedicare?

MyMedicare is a voluntary patient registration model that formalises the relationship between a patient and their GP, general practice and primary care teams.

It has been introduced by the Australian Government as a way to strengthen Medicare. It allows for a more personalised, tailored approach to the healthcare of patients from their regular general practice, doctor and primary care team.

Who is eligible to register?

MyMedicare is open to all Australians with a Medicare card or a Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) Veteran Card. You must have had two or more face-to-face appointments with your regular registered practice or health care provider over the last 24 months or at least one face-to-face appointment if you are in a remote location.

Those facing hardship, including people experiencing domestic and family violence and homelessness, do not need to meet the eligibility requirements to register for MyMedicare.

Children under the age of 14 years must be registered by a parent or guardian. This registration needs to completed at the patient’s chosen practice; however, those aged 14-17 years can register themselves without needing the consent of a parent or guardian.

Registering with MyMedicare is completely free and voluntary and your quality of care will not be impacted if you choose not to register.

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What are the benefits?

When you register, your health care provider will be notified that you have chosen them as your regular care team. Your registration will then allow them to access services and additional funding to help provide you with the care you need.

MyMedicare essentially enables you to formalise the relationship you have with your regular GP and general practice and allows for greater continuity of care.

Research indicates that seeing the same health care provider generally leads to better health outcomes for patients, including fewer hospital admissions and lower mortality rates.

It will also allow for longer Medicare funded telehealth consults with your GP, as well as triple bulk billing incentives for longer telehealth consultations for children under 16, pensioners, and concession care holders.

Additional benefits that will be introduced over the coming year include:

  • more regular visits from their GP and better care planning for those living in a residential aged care home, from August 2024
  • connections to more appropriate care in general practice for people with chronic disease who visit hospital frequently, from mid-2024.

The benefits of MyMedicare are expected to continue to grow over time, as more patients and providers sign up.

How do I register?

You can register for MyMedicare through your online account or through your regular general practice.

When registering, you will be able to choose to register with:

  • an accredited general practice;
  • an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service;
  • an Aboriginal Medical Service;
  • a nurse practitioner-led practice with a GP; or
  • another non-traditional practice that meets the healthcare provider registration and eligibility criteria.

Before you register with MyMedicare, however, you will need to make sure that your chosen practice is registered.

Once you have registered with your regular practice, you will then be able to select your preferred GP.

It’s important to note that while you will still be able to access other Medicare and DVA equivalent services from other healthcare providers, you will only be able to access the benefits of MyMedicare at your registered regular general practice.

You will, however, be able to change or update both your preferred GP or practice at any time once you are registered.

To find out more information on how to register with MyMedicare, visit Services Australia.

How to register with Illawarra Medical Centre

Illawarra Medical Centre is currently registered as a MyMedicare practice and you can register IMC as your regular care team in MyMedicare via this QR Code.

Your quality of care at Illawarra Medical Centre will not be impacted if you choose not to register with MyMedicare.

For more information, visit https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/mymedicare or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> Health impacts of menopause https://illawarramedical.com.au/health-impact-of-menopause/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=health-impact-of-menopause Tue, 17 Oct 2023 02:08:51 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=7277 Menopause is a natural progression in every woman’s reproductive life and signals the stage when your periods stop completely and you can no longer fall pregnant. With this change comes an increased risk of developing certain health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at menopause […]

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Menopause is a natural progression in every woman’s reproductive life and signals the stage when your periods stop completely and you can no longer fall pregnant.

With this change comes an increased risk of developing certain health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at menopause and its health impacts for women.

What is menopause?

Menopause occurs when you have your final menstrual period and no menstrual period for the 12 months following.

As noted by the World Health Organization, it is caused by the loss of ovarian follicular function and a decline in oestrogen levels. Menopause can occur naturally or as a result of certain medical or surgical procedures, such as a hysterectomy, chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

It generally occurs naturally between the ages of 45-55, with the average age being 51 years.

For women using the contraceptive pill, it can be difficult to know whether you have reached menopause or not, as it can mask and reduce symptoms and you may still continue to have a monthly bleed. It is best to speak with your GP about when and how to stop taking the pill as you reach the age range for menopause.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms can occur some 5-10 years before a woman reaches menopause and this is known as perimenopause.

During this phase, your monthly periods may change and become more or less frequent.

Some women may also experience forgetfulness and have more difficulty concentrating throughout menopause.

As outlined by the Australasian Menopause Society, some of the other common symptoms experienced during this phase include:

 

  • Hot flushes and night sweats
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Joint pain
  • Fatigue and tiredness
  • Anxiety and mood changes
  • Dry vagina, discomfort during sex and/or the need to urinate more frequently

Many of these symptoms are only temporary and can be managed without treatment; however, around 20% of women will have severe symptoms that significantly impact on their daily lives.

For those who do have symptoms, Jean Hailes for Women’s Health has put together this useful checklist to help you track your symptoms, so that you can discuss them with your doctor at your next appointment>>

What are some of the health impacts?

The decline in oestrogen can put women at a greater risk of developing a number of health issues, including heart disease, stroke and osteoporosis.

Oestrogen is known to help maintain blood flow and a healthy balance of cholesterol.

Lower levels of oestrogen can lead to an increase in cholesterol build up on the arteries leading to the heart and brain, subsequently increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Lower oestrogen levels can also contribute to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals more quickly than the body can replace them. This leads to a loss of bone thickness (or density) and can make your bones more likely to break from minor injuries or falls.

What treatment is available?

For those suffering severe menopausal symptoms, there are a number of therapies and medicines available to help reduce symptoms, including:

  1. Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) – one of the most effective treatments, used to replace hormones and relieve symptoms. This treatment is not suitable for everyone though, particularly those with a history of certain cancers including breast and uterine.
  2. Medicines – such as antidepressants, which can help to reduce hot flushes.
  3. Natural Therapies – including herbal remedies, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, and acupuncture.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also important in managing symptoms and your overall health and wellbeing.

This includes:

  • eating a healthy diet
  • drinking lots of water
  • maintaining a healthy weight
  • regularly exercising
  • getting a good night’s sleep
  • reducing and/or limiting your alcohol intake
  • giving up smoking, if you’re a smoker
  • staying connected to friends, family and your community

It’s also important to stay up-to-date with your vaccinations, regular health checks and recommended screenings, particularly your heart health check, cervical screening, breast check, skin checks and bone density checks.

For a comprehensive list of recommended health checks for women, visit Better Health Channel.

If you believe you may be experiencing menopause and have concerns about any related symptoms or your overall health and wellbeing, contact us on (08) 9208 6400 or book online.

Where can I find out more information?

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> What the new 60-day prescriptions mean for patients https://illawarramedical.com.au/what-the-new-60-day-prescriptions-mean-for-patients/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-the-new-60-day-prescriptions-mean-for-patients Tue, 19 Sep 2023 03:33:57 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=7209 Earlier this month, the Australian Government introduced 60-day prescriptions for almost 100 medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), to help reduce annual costs to patients. In this month’s blog, we take a look at what medicines are covered and how these changes will benefit patients. What are the changes? From 1 September 2023, […]

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Earlier this month, the Australian Government introduced 60-day prescriptions for almost 100 medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), to help reduce annual costs to patients. In this month’s blog, we take a look at what medicines are covered and how these changes will benefit patients.

What are the changes?

From 1 September 2023, those eligible and living with a chronic condition will be able to buy 60 days’ supply of selected PBS-listed medicines in a single visit to the pharmacy for the cost of a single prescription.

The changes will be rolled out in three phases over 12 months, with the first phase including 92 medicines for a range of conditions, including:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Gout
  • Heart failure
  • High cholesterol
  • Hypertension
  • Osteoporosis
  • Ulcerative colitis

To see the full list of medicines included in phase 1, click here>>

By September 2024, it is expected that 60-day scripts will be available for more than 300 out of 950 medicines currently listed on the PBS.

The full list of medicines includes some of those recommended for a range of additional ongoing health conditions, including:

  • Asthma
  • Breast cancer
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Constipation
  • Chronic renal failure
  • Depression
  • Diabetes
  • Endometriosis
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Epilepsy
  • Glaucoma and dry eyes
  • Gout
  • Hormonal replacement and modulation therapy
  • Parkinson’s disease

The medicines with the option of 60-day scripts have been specifically chosen, as they are treatments for ongoing, chronic health conditions and meet the required clinical safety criteria.

Medicines that aren’t included are generally those used for only a short period of time and that pose a potential risk of overuse, such as pain medicines and some medicines used for mental health conditions.

It’s important to note that the maximum number of repeats will not change and prescriptions will continue to remain valid for 12 months only.

For more information on the introduction of 60-day prescriptions, visit https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/60-day-prescriptions

Why have these changes been introduced?

Primarily, this change is about making medicine more affordable for patients. It will allow those living with a chronic, stable condition to be able to buy two months’ worth of medicine for the price of a single prescription, instead of the 30-day supply that has previously been in place.

For patients, this essentially means they won’t have to visit the doctor or pharmacy as often to renew a script, which will assist with easing cost-of-living pressures. It will also help save time and reduce travel costs for those with limited mobility or living in remote locations.

People with a Medicare card buying only one of the medicines on the list are expected to save up to $180 per year, while concession card holders are likely to save around $43.80 per year for each eligible medicine.

The Australian Government anticipates that the changes will result in a halving of the cost of medicines for around 6 million Australians.

How will this impact the PBS Safety Net?

The PBS Safety Net is a system put in place to help patients who require a large number of PBS medicines throughout the year.

Once you or your family spend a certain amount on PBS medicine, you will reach the PBS Safety Net threshold, which is currently $262.80 for concession card holders and $1,563.50 for general patients.

Once the Safety Net is reached, your medicines will either become free or available at a reduced cost.

The PBS Safety Net will remain in place with the introduction of 60-day scripts. However, you may find that you reach the Safety Net later in the year, or not at all, as a result of the savings you receive from the 60-day prescription throughout the year.

How can I get a 60-day prescription?

If you have a current prescription, you will need to complete this script first before seeing your doctor for a new prescription and requesting a 60-day supply.

Your medication must be on the approved list and the decision of whether or not to provide you with a 60-day script ultimately lies with your GP or other prescriber, based on their professional clinical judgement.

If your doctor feels that your condition needs a more frequent review, they may continue to provide you with a 30-days script. You can also request to continue with a 30-day script if that is what you prefer.

To make an appointment at IMC to discuss or renew your script, book online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

 

 

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]]> Dementia – the leading cause of death for women https://illawarramedical.com.au/dementia-the-leading-cause-of-death-for-women/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dementia-the-leading-cause-of-death-for-women Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:36:08 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=7156 You might be surprised to learn that dementia, including Alzheimer’s, is the leading cause of death for women in Australia, accounting for 13% of all female deaths compared to 6.3% of males. In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at dementia, including the risks, symptoms and ways to help prevent against the disease. […]

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You might be surprised to learn that dementia, including Alzheimer’s, is the leading cause of death for women in Australia, accounting for 13% of all female deaths compared to 6.3% of males.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at dementia, including the risks, symptoms and ways to help prevent against the disease.

What is dementia?

As defined by the World Health Organization, dementia is the term for several diseases that affect a person’s memory, thinking and ability to perform daily tasks.

As well as memory and thinking, it can also affect a person’s behaviour, their ability to communicate, and their judgement.

The illness gets worse over time and is most likely to affect people aged 65 years and over, although it can affect people of any age.

As noted by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report on Deaths in Australia, women are disproportionately affected by dementia (including Alzheimer’s) and it is the leading cause of death for women, accounting for 13% of all female deaths compared to 6.3% of males.

Across Australia, there are over 400,000 people estimated to be living with dementia, including 1 in 12 people aged over 65. These rates are only set to get worse and are expected to double by 2058.

What are the symptoms?

Dementia can affect different people in different ways and early symptoms may be difficult to detect.

However, the most common early signs and symptoms to look out for include:

  • Memory loss
  • Changes in the ability to plan and problem solve
  • Difficulty in doing everyday tasks
  • Changes to mood and behaviour
  • A lack of interest in things or activities that would normally be enjoyed
  • Showing poor judgement or a lack of insight
  • Problems with speaking and writing
  • Confusion about time and place

Most symptoms will become worse over time and those with dementia will generally need assistance with their personal care, as the disease progresses.

This video from Dementia Australia provides a good overview of what living with dementia can be like>>

Why is it more prevalent in females?

We know that dementia affects twice as many women as men worldwide, by why is that?

The main explanation is to do with age. Living to an old age is one of the leading risk factors for dementia and women tend to live longer than men, therefore making them more susceptible to developing the disease over time.

As noted by Alzheimer’s Society, it is also thought that hormones – particularly oestrogen – may have an impact on the rates of dementia and Alzheimer’s in women. Oestrogen is the main female sex hormone and is believed to play a role in protecting the brain from the damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

Research has shown that oestrogen helps to increase the number of connections in the memory centre of the brain.

When women go through menopause, their levels of oestrogen fall significantly. Dementia is more common in women after menopause and it is thought that this drop in oestrogen may make women more prone to the learning and memory problems associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Another potential factor is the tau protein, which helps to stabilise the internal skeleton of nerve cells in the brain. In Alzheimer’s disease, there is an abnormal build-up of tau that causes this internal skeleton to fall apart. Research from 2019 found that the levels of tau in the areas of the brain involved in memory was higher in older women than men, even for those with normal cognition, thus presenting a possible higher risk of developing symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

While there are a number of possible explanations as to why more women than men are diagnosed with the disease, there is still a lot of research to be done to gain a better, more conclusive understanding as to why.

Other risk factors

Aside from age and being female, other risk factors for developing dementia include:

  • A family history of the disease
  • Having a poor diet
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Being physically inactive
  • Being a smoker
  • Drinking too much alcohol
  • Being socially isolated
  • Having depression
  • Other underlying diseases that can cause damage to the brain

Prevention

While there is no cure for dementia, there are a few ways to help reduce your risk of developing the disease, including:

  • Staying physically active and exercising regularly
  • Eating a healthy, well-balanced and nutritious diet
  • Limiting your alcohol consumption
  • Avoiding smoking
  • Staying connected with others and maintaining an active social life
  • Keeping yourself mentally stimulated

For those diagnosed with dementia, some medications can help to reduce the symptoms and improve your quality of life. Speak to your GP about your options and the best way to manage the disease.

If you have any concerns about your risk of dementia or notice any signs and symptoms of the disease in yourself or a loved one, please make an appointment with a GP to discuss. Appointments at Illawarra Medical Centre can be made online or by phoning (08) 9208 6400.

Where can I find out more information?

For more information, visit:

 

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]]> Chronic pain impacts and management https://illawarramedical.com.au/chronic-pain-impacts-and-management/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=chronic-pain-impacts-and-management Thu, 27 Jul 2023 05:35:34 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=7088 Everyone experiences physical pain at some stage in their life, but for 3.7 million Australians, pain is a complex and ongoing problem. Known as an invisible illness, many people with chronic pain may not necessarily look unwell; however, the experience of constant pain for three months or more can significantly impact on a person’s mental […]

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Everyone experiences physical pain at some stage in their life, but for 3.7 million Australians, pain is a complex and ongoing problem. Known as an invisible illness, many people with chronic pain may not necessarily look unwell; however, the experience of constant pain for three months or more can significantly impact on a person’s mental health, as well as their ability to work, move, sleep, and enjoy social or family activities.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at chronic pain and how it can be managed.

Prevalence in Australia

Chronic pain affects around 3.7 million Australians, comprised of around 54% women and 46% men. As noted by Pain Australia, around two thirds of Australians living with chronic pain are urban based and 68% are of working age.

The financial cost of chronic pain in Australia is estimated to be ~$144 billion and includes costs to the health system, productivity losses, and the reduction in the quality of life for those experiencing chronic pain.

Chronic pain not only affects people physically but also impacts significantly on their mental health. Around 45% of those living with chronic pain also experience anxiety or depression and suicide is reportedly two to three times higher in those suffering chronic pain compared to the general population.

These figures are only set to increase, with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s most recent report estimating the annual cost of chronic pain in Australia will rise to ~$215 billion by 2050.

What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is any persistent pain that lasts for three months or more, or beyond the normal healing time of an injury.

It is a complex issue, as everyone experiences pain differently. Chronic pain can:

  • Be a symptom of another disease or a stand-along condition
  • Show no evidence of its existence
  • Occur anywhere in the body and at multiple sites
  • Involve several forms of pain or just one
  • Be daily or recurrent, such as a migraine

What we do know, is that all pain is related to the brain.

When you have an injury, nerves send signals from your injured body part to the brain’s thalamus to tell it there’s a problem. The thalamus then sorts through the signal and relays it onto the different parts of the brain responsible for physical sensation (the somatosensory cortex), thinking (the frontal cortex), and emotions (the limbic system).

That’s why whenever you experience pain, you tend to physically feel it, wonder what it was or what caused it, and are likely to have an emotional reaction to it (i.e. feel irritated or cry).

This whole process is an essential part of evolution that helps protects our bodies from danger and harm.

For those with chronic pain, however, the nerves carrying pain signals to the brain or the brain itself, are not behaving in the normal way and can signal that there is pain, even when your tissues are not in any danger.

This video from Pain Australia provides a good overview of chronic pain>>

Are There Different Types of Chronic Pain?

As noted by Chronic Pain Australia, there are many different chronic pain conditions that people can experience; however, most of these can be categorised into three types:

  1. Nociceptive – which is pain associated with tissue injuries or damage, including from a cut, broken bone or such things as osteoarthritis, pelvic pain and rheumatoid arthritis.
  2. Neuropathic – which is pain associated with injury or disease of the nerve tissue. This type of pain is commonly associated with shingles, sciatica, pinched nerves, and nerve damage resulting from diabetes.
  3. Nociplastic – which is pain that results from alterations or changes to the way the sensory nervous system processes noxious stimuli, even if there is no evidence of tissue damage or disease causing the pain. For example fibromyalgia and non-specific lower back pain.

Treatment Options

As there are several types of chronic pain and everyone’s pain experience is different, treatment will generally involve a whole person approach that considers physical, social and psychological factors.

Most pain management strategies will use a combination of:

  • Medication
  • Physical therapies (such as heat or cold packs, massage, hydrotherapy and exercise)
  • Psychological therapies (such as cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques and meditation)
  • Acupuncture
  • Community support – through community and/or online groups

Generally those who actively manage their pain on a daily basis will tend to experience better results than those who rely purely on passive therapies, such as medication or surgery.

The most important step in managing any chronic pain condition, however, is to see your GP.

They will be able to work with you to develop a management plan based on your individual needs and circumstances and can recommend other health professionals to see as part of managing your chronic pain.

Appointments at IMC can be made by contacting us on (08) 9208 6400 or booking online. 

Where can I find out more information?

For more information, visit:

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]]> Increasing incidence of bowel cancer in younger Australians https://illawarramedical.com.au/increasing-incidence-of-bowel-cancer-in-younger-australians/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=increasing-incidence-of-bowel-cancer-in-younger-australians Tue, 27 Jun 2023 04:20:44 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=6973 While it was once thought of as an older person’s disease, bowel cancer rates are increasingly on the rise amongst younger Australians, with a 266% increase in diagnoses over the past 30 years in those aged 15-24 years. In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at bowel cancer and the increasing incidence of […]

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While it was once thought of as an older person’s disease, bowel cancer rates are increasingly on the rise amongst younger Australians, with a 266% increase in diagnoses over the past 30 years in those aged 15-24 years.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at bowel cancer and the increasing incidence of the disease in younger Australians, as well as the risks, symptoms and ways to help prevent against the disease.

What is Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most common type of cancer in Australia, claiming the lives of over 100 people every week. Australia has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world and 1 in 15 Australians will develop the disease in their lifetime.

It develops when cells in the bowel lining grow too quickly, forming a clump known as a polyp or adenoma. While most polyps are usually benign, or non-cancerous, most bowel cancers form from these tiny growths, which can continue to grow for several years before changing and becoming cancerous. If left untreated, the cancer can spread to other areas of the body.

Depending on where the cancer begins, bowel cancer may be referred to as colon or rectal cancer. Around 30% of those who develop bowel cancer have a hereditary contribution, family history of the disease, or both.

The good news, however, is that bowel cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer. If detected early, almost 99% of bowel cancers can be treated successfully.

What are the symptoms?

During the early stages of the disease, there
can often be no signs or symptoms present. Because of this, the Australian Government introduced the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program in 2006, to help reduce illness and death from the disease through early detection.

During later stages of the disease, the following symptoms can be indicators of bowel cancer:

  • Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding.
  • A recent, persistent change in bowel habit (for example, diarrhoea or constipation).
  • A change in the shape or appearance of bowel movements (for example, more narrow than usual).
  • Abdominal pain or swelling.
  • Pain or lump in the anus or rectum.
  • Unexplained tiredness or rapid weight loss (signs of anaemia).
  • Feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely after a bowel movement.

If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it is recommended that you visit your General Practitioner (GP) for further investigation.

Risk Factors

Bowel cancer affects both men and women of all ages. The risk factors for bowel cancer can be broken down into two main categories – those that can be changed (modifiable) and those that can’t (non-modifiable).

Non-modifiable risk factors include:

  • Being aged 50 and over.
  • Having an existing inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • Having previous non-cancerous tumours in the bowel.
  • Having a strong family history of bowel cancer or polyps.

While these risk factors cannot be changed, it’s important to tell your GP if these risk factors apply to you and you have any concerns about developing the disease.

Modifiable risk factors include:

  • Being overweight.
  • Being physically inactive.
  • Having a poor diet – one which is high in red and processed meats, fried food and alcohol but low in fruits, vegetable and whole grains.

These risk factors can all be addressed through changes to your diet and lifestyle. Your GP can assist you with any health concerns you have regarding your diet and overall health and wellbeing.

In those younger than 50 years old, the risk of developing bowel cancer increases if one or more of the following symptoms have been experienced for three months to two years prior to diagnosis:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Diarrhoea
  • Iron deficiency anaemia

Why are more young people being diagnosed with the disease?

According to Bowel Cancer Australia, those born from 1990 onwards are twice as likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer and four times as likely to be diagnosed with rectal cancer as those born in 1950.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) notes that the statistics show a 266% increase in bowel cancer rates amongst adolescents and young adults, aged between 15 and 24 years.

While there is yet no clear explanation for this increase, it is thought that a greater prevalence of metabolic disorders, unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle and obesity are all contributing to the rise in bowel cancer in younger Australians.

How can I reduce my risk of developing bowel cancer?

There are a number of ways to help reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer.

1. Take the test
Australia’s National Bowel Screening Program invites eligible people between 50-74 years of age to regularly screen for bowel cancer using a free simple test at home.

The test is able to detect blood that is difficult to detect with the naked eye; one of the possible symptoms of bowel cancer. While a positive result means blood has been detected in the sample, it does not mean that bowel cancer is present. It does, however, require further investigation by your GP.

A negative result means no blood has been detected in the samples, and no further action will be required. However, it’s important to remember that a negative test result is no guarantee that a person will not develop bowel cancer. As such, those aged between 50-74 are encouraged to take the test every two years. You should also talk to your GP immediately if you develop symptoms after getting a negative result.

With the increasing incidence of bowel cancer amongst younger age groups, there are calls for this test to be made available to Australians from the age of 45 years, as was introduced in America in 2021.

In the meantime, for those outside the 50-74 year age bracket for screenings through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, a BowelScreen Australia screening test can be purchased from participating pharmacies or through Bowel Cancer Australia by contacting their Helpline on 1800 555 494.

2. Adopt a healthy diet and lifestyle

There are a number of things that are in your control and can be changed to help in the prevention against bowel cancer. These include:

  • Eating a healthy diet containing lots of fruits, vegetable, calcium and wholegrains and limiting your intake of red and processed meats, and fried foods.
  • Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Giving up smoking, if you are a smoker.
  • Reducing and/or limit your alcohol intake to less than 2 standard drinks a day.

3. Know your risk factors

Knowing your risk factors and monitoring your own health are important tools in the early detection of bowel cancer. If you notice any symptoms or have concerns relating to your bowel, speak to your GP to discuss your concerns.

Appointments with GPs at Illawarra Medical Centre can be made online or by contacting us on (08) 9208 6400.

Where can I find out more information?

For more information, visit:

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]]> Triple virus threat for winter highlights importance of vaccination https://illawarramedical.com.au/triple-virus-threat-for-winter-highlights-importance-of-vaccination/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=triple-virus-threat-for-winter-highlights-importance-of-vaccination Mon, 22 May 2023 04:27:14 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=6918 There have been a lot reports in recent weeks about the looming triple virus threat of RSV, COVID and influenza hitting hard this winter. In this month’s blog, we take a look at each of these viruses, how they differ, and how you vaccination can help protect yourself and your family from them this coming […]

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There have been a lot reports in recent weeks about the looming triple virus threat of RSV, COVID and influenza hitting hard this winter. In this month’s blog, we take a look at each of these viruses, how they differ, and how you vaccination can help protect yourself and your family from them this coming winter.

RSV

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (or RSV) usually presents as a mild respiratory infection. The virus infects the airways and lungs and commonly causes coughs and colds during winter.

Its symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Runny nose
  • Headache
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing

It can also cause ear infections. While RSV mostly presents as a mild infection, it can lead to life-threatening complications such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Children are most at risk, with 3.6 million children worldwide hospitalised with the virus every year.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. 

Thanks to the impact of vaccines and the health measures undertaken over the last few years, the World Health Organization recently declared that the virus was no longer a public health emergency, but an established and ongoing health issue.

COVID-19 symptoms can vary from mild to severe, with the most common symptoms being:

  • Fever
  • Coughing
  • Sore throat
  • Shortness of breath

Other symptoms can include:

  • Runny nose or congestion
  • Headache or fatigue
  • Muscle or joint pains
  • Nausea or loss of appetite
  • Diarrhoea or vomiting
  • Temporary loss of smell or altered sense of taste

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, WA has recorded 1,326,071 confirmed cases and 1,053 deaths from COVID (as at 12 May 2023 – https://covidlive.com.au/report/daily-deaths/wa). Globally, that figure increases to almost 765,903,278 confirmed cases and close to 7 million deaths (https://covid19.who.int/).

Influenza

Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that can often be mistaken for a common cold. However, flu tends to last longer and be more debilitating.

Most people experience symptoms, such as:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Cough
  • Tiredness
  • General aches and pains

Children, however, can experience more uncommon symptoms, including:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea

Influenza can cause severe illness or death, particularly among high-risk groups, including children under five, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions.

Vaccination offers best protection

With all three viruses already circulating throughout the community, it is expected there will be increased pressure on our health system and hospitals as winter hits. Contracting a combination of RSV, flu and/or COVID-19 could also have severe consequences, particularly for vulnerable people in our community.

That’s why staying up-to-date with your vaccines is vital, as it helps to reduce the spread of these viruses and protects your family and the wider community, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

What vaccines are currently available?

RSV Vaccines

There is currently no vaccine available for RSV. However, a vaccine may not be too far away, with new research published in the New England Journal of Medicine showing the development of an RSV vaccine that, when given to pregnant women, was 81.8% effective in preventing severe disease within 90 days of birth and 69.4% effective in preventing severe disease within 180 days of birth.

In the meantime, you can help prevent the spread of the virus by:

  • Maintaining good personal hygiene by washing hands often with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
  • Staying home, when sick, or wearing a mask when leaving the house and avoiding close contact with others.
  • Regularly cleaning surfaces and items that may be contaminated with disinfectant.
COVID-19 Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone aged 5 years and older and there are currently three vaccines available for use in Australia:

  • Pfizer (Comirnaty)
  • Spikevax (Moderna)
  • Nuvaxovid (Novavax)

Some people may previously have received the Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) COVID vaccine; however, this vaccine is no longer available in Australia (as of 20 March 2023).

All adults who have not had a COVID-19 booster or a confirmed case in the past six months are encouraged to get another booster to give them additional protection against severe illness from COVID, regardless of the number of prior doses received.

This additional booster dose is particularly recommended for those at risk of severe illness, including:

  • anyone aged 65 years and over; and
  • adults who have medical comorbidities, disability or complex health needs. 

ATAGI advice currently states that otherwise healthy children and teenagers do not need a booster at this time, given the low incidence of severe illness and high level of hybrid immunity amongst this cohort.

Influenza Vaccines

Anyone over the age of 6 months is encouraged to get vaccinated annually against influenza.

Those at greatest risk of serious complications from influenza are eligible to receive the vaccine for free, through the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP).

This includes:

  • Children aged 6 months to <5 years
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
  • Adults aged 65 years and over
  • Pregnant women
  • Anyone aged 6 months and over who has:
    • heart disease
    • severe asthma (requiring frequent medical consultations or use of multiple medications)
    • chronic lung conditions
    • diseases of the nervous system that affect breathing
    • impaired immunity
    • diabetes
    • kidney disease
    • haemoglobinopathies
    • children aged 6 months to 10 years on long-term aspirin therapy

In Western Australia, the flu vaccine is also free fro ALL primary school aged children from Pre-Primary to Year 6. Vaccination is also strongly recommended for those who:

  • Work in certain jobs and industries (including aged care and health care).
  • Travel to certain countries.
  • Are planning a pregnancy.

In Western Australia, the influenza vaccine is currently free for all Western Australians throughout May at participating GPs, pharmacies and Aboriginal Medical Services.

Are vaccines safe?

Yes. Vaccines given in Australia are perfectly safe and you cannot get the virus from having the relevant vaccine.

Like any vaccine, it is possible that some people may experience a reaction; however, the risk of the vaccines causing serious harm is very low.

In Australia, all vaccines must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

We also have a national program – AusVaxSafety – that monitors the type and rate of reactions to each year’s new influenza vaccine in young children.

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we utilise the SmartVax system as an additional vaccine safety measure for our patients. SmartVax uses SMS and smartphone technology to actively monitor vaccine safety in real time and feeds into the AusVaxSafety program.

Can I get my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

Yes. You can have your flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.

When booking in for your flu vaccination, however, it’s important to tell your vaccination provider if you are also wanting to receive your COVID-19 vaccine at the same time, so that they can best plan your appointment.

If you have any questions or concerns about getting your COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations at the same time, speak to your GP prior to booking in any vaccinations.

Vaccinations at IMC

Illawarra Medical Centre currently has stocks of both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines available. We are also running Influenza Vaccination Clinics every Friday, for those looking to get their annual flu vaccine.

Bookings are essential. Visit the website or contact us on (08) 9208 6400 for further details.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> Vaping and your health https://illawarramedical.com.au/vaping-and-your-health/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=vaping-and-your-health Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:40:04 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=6768 Vaping has been hitting the headlines lately, with Queensland recently announcing an enquiry into the health impacts of e-cigarettes and increasing concerns across Australia around the availability and prevalence of e-cigarettes and vaping products, particularly with younger Australia. In this month’s blog, we thought we’d take a closer look at vaping and e-cigarettes and how […]

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Vaping has been hitting the headlines lately, with Queensland recently announcing an enquiry into the health impacts of e-cigarettes and increasing concerns across Australia around the availability and prevalence of e-cigarettes and vaping products, particularly with younger Australia.

In this month’s blog, we thought we’d take a closer look at vaping and e-cigarettes and how they impact on your health.

What are the current rules/regulations/laws around vaping in Australia?

In Australia, it is illegal to sell, supply or possess an e-cigarette or any liquid that contains nicotine without a doctor’s prescription, including products imported from overseas.

In Western Australia, nicotine is strictly regulated under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014 and products that are designed to resemble tobacco products are regulated under the Tobacco Products Control Act 2006.

These Acts essentially outline that e-cigarette devices and their components cannot be sold by tobacco or general retailers. It is also illegal for individuals to sell vapes to friends, colleagues or in the community.

It is also illegal to sell, supply or possess nicotine vaping products (or any liquid that contains nicotine) without a prescription from a doctor, including products imported from overseas.

What are e-cigarettes and vapes?

E-cigarettes, or vapes, are electronic, battery-operated devices that have been designed to deliver vapourised liquids into the lungs.

First invented by Chinese pharmacist, Hon Lik, in 2003 as an alternative to conventional smoking, e-cigarettes generally comprise a battery component, atomizer and a cartridge for a nicotine or non-nicotine liquid solution.

The battery component is used as a source of energy to power the atomizer, which heats the liquid so that it emits an aerosol or mist. This can then be inhaled through a situs slot luar negeri mouthpiece and exhaled as a fine-particulate smoke. It is similar to turning water into steam.

Vapes have previously been approved and used as a tool to help people quit or reduce smoking, after other methods have been tried and failed.

These days, vapes come in many different styles, shapes and sizes, such as pipes, pens and USBs, which can sometimes make them difficult to spot. The liquid used in vapes also comes in an array of different flavours, from tobacco to fruit flavours and even cola, caramel and lolly flavours.

However, it’s becoming increasingly known that vapes are not safe and may contain harmful and addictive chemicals that aren’t always listed on the pack.

The sleek design and range of sweet flavour options of vapes, coupled with the misconception that vaping is safer than smoking, can often appeal to younger people.

What ingredients are typically found in e-cigarettes and vapes?

The main ingredients that are typically found in vapes include propylene glycol, vegetable glycerol, nicotine, flavours and other chemicals.

Vapes can contain a number of harmful substances, including:

  • Nicotine, even in e-cigarettes marketed as ‘nicotine-free’;
  • Cancer-causing chemicals such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and acrolein;
  • Harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weedkiller and bug spray;
  • Heaving metals, such as nickel, tin and lead
  • Ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs
  • Flavouring chemicals, such as diacetyl (which has been linked to serious lung disease); and
  • Volatile organic compounds

A recent study undertaken by the Telethon Kid’s Institute and Curtin University examined the ingredients of more than 60 over-the-counter ‘nicotine-free’ e-liquids in Australia and found that the majority contained substances with known toxic chemicals. In addition, nicotine was found in nine percent of the liquids tested, despite these products being marketed as ‘nicotine-free’.

What is the impact on health?

Vapes are often cited as being a ‘healthy’ alternative to cigarettes and a useful tool in helping smokers to quit or reduce their smoking.

However, the Royal Australasian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Guidelines note that nicotine vaping products should not be used as a first-line treatment for smoking cessation. Instead, RACGP recommends approved pharmacological therapies combined with behavioural support as a much safer and evidence based approach to stopping smoking.

Where people have tried unsuccessfully to stop smoking through pharmacological therapies and behavioural support, then nicotine vaping products may be considered as a reasonable intervention.

However, the fact is that the long-term health risks of vaping products are simply unknown and there are mixed reports on their actual effectiveness in stopping smoking.

While not all vapes contain nicotine, which we already know is harmful, and we are still learning about the health impacts of vapes, the general consensus is that they are not safe.

It is becoming more evident that vapes can expose people to chemicals at levels that may cause negative health effects.

Vaping has already been noted as the cause of a number of deaths from acute lung disease and an increasing number of studies show that vaping has both short- and medium-term effects on the heart and lungs. There are also growing concerns that e-cigarettes could increase the risk of cancer.

As noted by the WA Department of Health, some of the health concerns around vaping include:

  1. Lung Damage – vaping has been linked to serious lung disease, with one of the commonly used ingredients in vapes – formaldehyde – known to cause irreversible lung damage.
  2. Brain and Physical Development – the consumption of nicotine in children and adolescents can have long-lasting damaging effects on their brain and physical development and potentially lead to learning and anxiety disorders. Nicotine changes the way the brain synapses are formed in young people. Some of the impacts include impaired attention, learning and memory, as well as changes in mood.
  3. Burns – there have been a number of cases reported where e-cigarette batteries or devices have overheated, caught fire or exploded. This can cause serious and potentially life-threatening injury, disability and disfigurement.
  4. Nicotine Addiction and Poisoning – nicotine is highly addictive. One vape can contain the same amount of nicotine found in 50 cigarettes and research shows that young people who vape are three times as likely to take up smoking cigarettes.


    The symptoms of nicotine addiction from vapes is the same as cigarettes, and include:

    – Increased irritability
    – Increased anxiousness
    – Intense cravings to vape
    – Lack of concentration; and
    – Trouble sleeping

    E-liquids that contact nicotine when swallowed or absorbed through the skin can result in poisoning, as can too much nicotine from using vapes.

  5. Exposure to harmful substances – as with cigarettes, there are also concerns about the potential health impacts on those who are exposed to the harmful substances found in e-cigarettes – either as a user or a bystander exposed second-hand.

  6. Mental Health – vaping nicotine can increase a person’s risk for depression and anxiety and make existing symptoms worse.

Concerned about the impact of smoking or vapes on your health?

If you have any health concerns regarding smoking or vaping, please make an appointment with your GP, who will be able to provide advice about suitable options to help you quit.

To make an appointment at Illawarra Medical Centre, simply book online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> Medicare Safety Net https://illawarramedical.com.au/medicare-safety-net/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=medicare-safety-net Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:30:29 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=6701 If you and your family have a lot of medical expenses throughout the year, the Medicare Safety Net could help you to save on your annual health care costs. In this month’s blog, we take a look at how the Medicare Safety Net works and how you can register for it. What is Medicare? Before […]

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If you and your family have a lot of medical expenses throughout the year, the Medicare Safety Net could help you to save on your annual health care costs. In this month’s blog, we take a look at how the Medicare Safety Net works and how you can register for it.

What is Medicare?

Before we get to the Medicare Safety Net, we need to understand a bit about Medicare itself.

Medicare was first introduced in 1984 as a universal health insurance scheme for Australia. It was designed to assist all Australians with the costs of the health care they need, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay.

When you access eligible health services, including visiting your GP or specialist or undertaking certain tests and scans, Medicare provides a rebate to you – the patient – to assist covering the total cost of the health service provided.

Bulk billing is when the doctor or health care provider accepts the Medicare rebate directly for the services provided to patients, resulting in no out-of-pocket expense to the patient.

However, when bulk billing is not applied, patients are required to pay an out-of-pocket or gap fee to cover the difference between the healthcare provider’s cost for service and the Medicare rebate. This is where the Medicare Safety Net can come in handy for those who have a lot of health care expenses throughout the calendar year.

This video from Services Australia provides a brief overview of the Medicare system>>

What is the Medicare Safety Net?

The Medicare Safety Net is a scheme put in place to help people pay for their out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Medicare automatically adds up your out-of-pocket costs for the calendar year, from 1st January to 31st December. When you reach prediksi togel a certain amount, Medicare will give you a higher amount back.

It’s important to note that your doctor visits or tests will still cost you the same up-front. The Medicare Safety Net simply means that you will receive a greater rebate back from Medicare for those visits and tests, once you’ve reached the relevant threshold.

For example:
You see your GP for a Standard Consultation and are charged the private fee of $85.00 and receive the Medicare rebate of $39.75. Your out-of-pocket cost for this appointment is $45.25

If you have reached the Medicare Safety Net threshold, however, you will still pay the private fee of $85.00 but you now receive a Medicare rebate of $39.75 + 80% of the out-of-pocket cost ($36.20). This means your total out-of-pocket cost for this appointment is only $9.05.

What Are the Safety Net Thresholds

The Medicare Safety Net has a number of thresholds in place and only verified payments (i.e. when you pay for your health professional service in full, before you make a claim with Medicare) count towards the threshold.

Some services are capped, so you cannot claim more than a certain amount. These include:

  • Assisted reproductive technology 
  • Obstetric services 
  • Pregnancy ultrasounds 
  • Midwifery services 
  • Certain procedures 
  • Certain consultations

The threshold amounts are set each year from 1 January. The current safety net thresholds for 2023 are as follows.

Thresholds

Threshold Amount

Who It’s For

What Counts Towards the Threshold

What Benefit You’ll Get Back

Original Medicare Safety Net (OMSN)

$531.70

Everyone in Medicare

Your gap amount for the calendar year

100% of the schedule fee for out of hospital services

Extended Medicare Safety Net (EMSN) – General

$2,414.00

Everyone in Medicare

Your out-of-pocket amount for the calendar year

80% of out-of-pocket costs or the EMSN benefit caps for out of hospital services

Extended Medicare Safety Net (EMSN) – Concessional and Family Tax Benefit Part A

$770.30

Concession cardholders and families eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A

Your out-of-pocket amount for the calendar year

80% of out-of-pocket costs or the EMSN benefit caps for out of hospital services

Who Is Eligible?

If you’re enrolled in Medicare, you’re eligible for Medicare Safety Nets.

You don’t need to register for the Medicare Safety Net if you’re an individual with no dependants. Medicare will automatically keep a tally of your out-of-pocket and gap amounts and will pay the higher Medicare benefits when you reach your threshold.

If you’re part of a family or couple, however, you can combine your costs by registering as a family.

A family is defined as:

  • a married couple, not separated, with or without dependants;
  • a couple in a de facto relationship, with or without dependants; or
  • a single person with dependants.

A dependant is someone the family supports financially and is either a child under 16 years of age or a full-time student aged between 16 and 25 years.

For more information on this topic, visit:

 

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