6 minute read
Chronic disease management
Chronic disease Management BY DR GEORGIA PAGE
Chronic disease is very common in Australia, with over half the population suffering from at least one chronic illness. The incidence of many of these chronic health conditions are on the rise due to factors such as change in lifestyle and increased life expectancy. They can lead to disability and premature death however with appropriate management, a team-based approach and a healthy lifestyle people can live healthier and longer lives with their chronic condition.
What is a chronic health condition? A Chronic health condition is a longterm illness that lasts at least 6 months or longer and often gets worse over time. They often can’t be cured, but by taking an active role in looking after yourself and receiving appropriate medical care it can be managed. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 61% of Australian’s have at least 1 of the major 8 Chronic conditions. These include Arthritis Asthma Back pain Cancer Cardiovascular disease Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary
Disease Diabetes Mental health conditions
Remember this list is only the ‘top 8’ and is by no means complete. Other chronic diseases with significant burden on our health include dementia, osteoporosis, stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis and many more.
Management of chronic health conditions: Often patients can have more than one chronic disease and management can seem quite complex and overwhelming. Learning as much as you can about your medical conditions and finding reliable information can help you take control of your health. Having a team of healthcare providers and a good support network will also improve the management of your health conditions.
1Have a good GP Ensure you have a good, regular GP that can help you take control of your health. They should be familiar with all your health conditions and coordinate your care. This will include conducting regular health checks, managing your medication, referring to specialist and other health care providers involved in your care. Your regular GP can also formulate a GP Management plan (GPMP) for your chronic health conditions to help you achieve your health goals.
2Healthy lifestyle Before we jump to medication, the key to managing any chronic health conditions is a healthy lifestyle. This can be achieved by; Stopping smoking Doing as much physical activity as your condition will allow Reducing alcohol intake Eating well Maintaining a healthy weight Good sleep hygiene – avoid napping during the day where possible and avoid stimulants such as caffeine before bed so you can have a good night sleep.
3Team based approach For complex medical conditions a health care team approach is
recommended to help you achieve your health goals. This may include a medical specialist and other allied health professionals. For example – a diabetic patient may involve a diabetes educator, dietitian, podiatrist, exercise physiologist and an ophthalmologist involved in their health care. Your GP can coordinate these referrals and arrange a Team Care Arrangement (TCA).
4Medication Be familiar with the medication you are taking and why. Make sure you review them regularly with your doctor and let them know if you are experiencing any side effects. Discuss with your GP or pharmacist what other over the counter medications or supplements you are taking to ensure there are no medication interactions. Your pharmacist can help with a Home Medication Review (HMR) especially if you are on more than 5 tablets a day and are having difficulty managing your own medications. They can also make up a dosing pack (webster pack) to help you keep track of when you should be taking your tablets and to avoid medication errors.
5Look after your mental health Having a chronic health condition can have a huge impact on your mental health. Chronic disease can be overwhelming and often causes tiredness, pain, stress, and limits what you can and can’t do. This can be hugely frustrating and can take a big toll mentally. Research shows that if you improve your mental health, it can also improve your physical health. Please talk to your doctor about how your chronic health condition is affecting you emotionally. They can offer further support such as referring you to a psychologist , social worker or other support groups.
6Support Social support is important in the management of chronic health conditions. This may come in the form of both emotional and practical support (such as transport and assistance in attending appointments). It is important to catch up with family and friends on a regular basis and let them know how they can help you. Support groups can help improve your knowledge about your condition and connect you with people that are going through what you are experiencing. Talk to your doctor or health professional about what suitable support groups are out there for you. providers, such as a physiotherapist, dietician, podiatrist etc, you may be also be eligible for a Team Care Arrangement (TCA). This will enable you to receive a Medicare rebate when you visit specific private allied health services providers for up to 5 sessions per calendar year. In most cases there will still be some out of pocket expenses which still count towards the extended Medicare safety net. Not everyone qualifies for a Team Care Arrangement so please check with your GP if you are eligible.
SUMMARY Taking an active role in the management of your chronic health condition can improve your quality of life. This can be achieved by having A good regular GP A healthy lifestyle including eating well, being physically active, not smoking and reducing alcohol intake. Taking your prescribed medication. A team-based approach with other health professionals and support services A comprehensive management plan
High TeaChronic Disease Management Plans To assist you in managing your chronic on the Greenproudly supports health conditions and achieving your health goals your GP can provide you with a GP Management Plan. This will includes identifying your health needs, goals that you hope to achieve , and a treatment plan including lifestyle measures. Once a plan is in place it should be reviewed and updated regularly by your GP. If you have complex care needs which High Tea is a wonderful excuse to catch up with the ladies in your life, be it mums, daughters, sisters, aunties, cousins, nieces, friends or work colleagues! High Tea on the Green High Tea is a wonderful excuse to catch up with the RESOURCES www.lifeline.org.au/Get-Help/ 13 11 14 www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/ publishing.nsf/Content/mbsprimarycarechronicdisease-pdf-infosheet https://resources.beyondblue.org.au/prism/ require the involvement of other health Please join us as this event raises vital funds for our ladies in your life, be it mums, daughters, sisters, aunties, cousins, nieces, friends file?token=BL/0124 Georgia local Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.or work colleagues! enjoys all aspects of general practice and has been working at Your Family Doctors at Erina for the last 12 years. The practice has a fabulous team and they pride themselves on delivering good Raffles • Lucky Prize Balloons • Clairvoyant Please join us as this event raises vital funds for our local Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. quality health care, with that special personal touch. For more information call 43654999, check the website www.yourfamilydoctors.com.au or like them on facebook.
Proudly supporting
Date: Sunday 28 May 2017 Raffles Venue: Pullman Magenta Shores Resort • Lucky Prize Balloons • Clairvoyant • Silent Auction 1 Magenta Drive, Magenta Time: 2.00pm - 4.30pmDate: Sunday 28 May 2017 Venue: Pullman Magenta Shores ResortCost: $55 per lady1 Magenta Drive, Magenta High Tea on the green 30 MAY 2021 | 2PM-4.30PM PULLMAN MAGENTA SHORES RESORT BOOK NOW Call on 4363 9746 or visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/events To book please visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/events For information please contact Allison Russell on 02 4363 9746 or allison.russell@rescuehelicopter.com.au thanks to our event partners Time: 2.00pm - 4.30pm Cost: $55 per lady To book please visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/events For information please contact Allison Russell on 02 4363 9746 or allison.russell@rescuehelicopter.com.au thanks to our event partners
