Medical Services
General Practitioners
When it comes to your health, it is nice to know you have a doctor that really cares.
A doctor that gets real satisfaction in seeing you and your family feeling better sooner.
Services available:
- Vaccinations
- Travel vaccines
- Health assessments and care plans
- Male & Female Health checks (45-49 yr olds)
- Medicals for insurance and driving
- Aviation Medicals
- Pre-employment Medicals
- Spirometry
- Electrocardiograph
- 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring
- Diabetes Management
- Asthma action plans
- Pap smear nurse
- Pregnancy test
- Antenatal nurse
- Counselling
- Minor surgery/stitching cuts
- Removal of moles and sunspots
- Skin Checks & Cancer Surgery
- Circumcisions
- Vasectomies
- Family Planning
FEES
This is NOT a Bulk Billing Practice
Fees are payable at the time of consultation by cash, MasterCard, Visa, EFTPOS or Cheque. Veterans may sign the service voucher. Saturday Mornings and After Hours all patients are privately billed. A list of doctor’s fees is available at the front desk. Doctors at Rich River Health Group now offer bulk billing consultations only for children 15 years and under. This does not apply to any Saturday morning or after-hours consultations.
CLAIMING
We have online claiming through Medicare, once registered you will receive your rebate payment within 2 to 3 days in your bank account. Otherwise you will receive a cheque in the mail from Medicare.
APPOINTMENTS
Consultations are normally by appointment. We now have Online Appointments just go to our Link and proceed for standard consultation. If your problem is urgent let the reception staff know, and you will be accommodated. Emergency cases are given priority. On Saturday mornings patients are seen in order of arrival and no appointment is necessary.
REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS AND REFERRALS
Patients need to be seen by the doctor to avoid error and confusion with medications. A fee will be charged for this service.
WAITING TIMES
We are aware of the importance of our patient’s time and we try to see patients at their appointment times. Despite our best intentions, we sometimes run late. This is because someone has needed unexpected urgent attention or an emergency has arisen. You may be offered an alternate doctor if one is available, or you may wish to reschedule, but the choice will be entirely yours.
DOCUMENTS AND FORMS
Sometimes a third party will ask you to have forms filled out by your doctor. Examples of these include: Immunizations certificates, Department of Social Security Reviews, School camp asthma plans etc
Please make an appointment to see your doctor for all forms. A fee will be incurred for this service.
LONGER APPOINTMENTS
Some consultations (eg insurance medicals, pre-employment medicals, surgical procedures etc) require a long consultation. Please inform the receptionist when you are making an appointment so enough time can be allowed ( or if you wish to have additional time with the doctor)
CONFIDENTIALITY
Your medical record is a confidential document. It is the policy of this practice to maintain security of personal health information at all times.
Emergency Treatment Room
We offer a state of the art treatment room where a number of routine services we provide are eg: spirometry, wound management, dressings, immunisations , vasectomies, circumcisions ,removal of sutures, removal of lesions and biopsies etc.
Management Plans
All patients who have a chronic health disease are eligible for a specially designed management plan, designed by your GP to help reduce identified health risks.
This may involve other allied health specialists such as dietitians, podiatrists, physiotherapists, diabetic educators and psychologists. All these plans are rebatable under Medicare.
45 – 49 Year Old Health Checks
With the introduction by the department of Health and Ageing of a new Medicare item focusing on the needs of patients aged 45-49 years inclusive who are at risk of developing a chronic disease (which is a disease that has been present for six months) including but not limited to asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, mental health conditions, arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
Risk factors include smoking, physical inactivity, poor nutrition, alcohol misuse, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, impaired glucose tolerance, family history or chronic disease etc., 45-49 year old checks have become another important tool in the prevention of chronic disease.
Please discuss with your doctor at your next consultation, whether you are eligible for and would benefit from one of these checks.
24 Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring
We are an accredited Yellow Fever vaccine provider. You will need to see our accredited doctor Dr Karen Langston for administration of this vaccine. The yellow fever vaccine will attract an out of pocket cost of $105 to cover the cost of the vaccine.
Skin Checks & Cancer Surgery
Skin Checks
Melanoma is the most dangerous skin cancer. It can spread to other parts of the body and become a deadly disease.
Queensland has the highest recorded incidence rate of melanoma recorded from all western countries where accurate records exist.
Every person over 16 should have a yearly skin check. Patients with a history of melanoma, or other skin disease may need to have these regular checks more often. Any freckle, mole or lump changing in size, shape or colour should be checked by your GP.
Sunburn whether frequent or intermittent is a major factor in the development of melanoma, particularly in children. However, melanoma can also occur on non exposed skin. People who burn easily, and either never or rarely tan, are at a much higher risk than people with darker skin who tan easily.
Other additional risk factors include a tendency to freckle, having more than 50 moles on the body, red or blond hair and blue eyes.
As required, we can perform skin biopsies, at the time of consultation (if required) or make another appointment time to perform a total excision of the lesion.
Iron Infusions
Iron Infusions
Why is Iron important?
Our bodies need iron. Iron is used to make haemoglobin – the part of our red blood cells that carries oxygen around our body. It is also important for muscle strength, energy and good mental function. If your iron levels are low this may make you feel tired and not able to do normal daily activities. As the amount of iron in the body falls even lower, the haemoglobin level drops below normal. This is known as iron deficiency anaemia.
Why might I need an Iron Infusion?
The most common way to treat iron deficiency is to take iron by mouth as a tablet or liquid. This works well for most people and is usually tried first. Some people may need iron to be given straight into the body through a vein. This is called an Intravenous (IV) iron infusion. Sometimes 2 iron infusions (given at least 1 week apart) are needed to fully top up iron stores. The infusion is made up of iron, not blood. IV iron might be needed if you:
- Are not able to take iron tablets / liquid
- Are not responding to iron tablets / liquid or not absorbing them
- Need to get your iron levels up quickly (eg. before major surgery, late in pregnancy or to avoid blood transfusion)
- If you have chronic kidney disease or chronic heart failure Your doctor should explain why you need IV iron and the other options
How do I make an appointment for an Iron Infusion?
You will first need to make a standard consultation appointment with your GP to discuss your current health, medical history, review of medications and any prior treatment if any. You will also need to have a blood test to determine your current iron levels and your GP will then discuss the next steps. If an Iron Infusion will be beneficial to you, and treatment is deemed appropriate by your GP, an appointment will be scheduled.
Ref: www2.health.vic.gov.au
Circulation Testing
Do you feel your circulation is not what it should be?
Have you experienced any of the symptoms below?
Signs of poor circulation
There are a several signs to look out for which can suggest that you may have poor circulation. These include:
- Cold feet and toes – not just in wintertime
- Cold hands and fingers
- Feeling numb in certain parts of the body, especially the extremities
- Feeling tired or having a lack of energy for much of the time
- Some hair loss can be because of bad blood flow
- Having regular dizzy spells
- If your skin gets dry even though you drink plenty of water
- Swelling and water retention, especially in the feet
- Lumps in blood vessels and varicose veins
- Headaches
- Cramps and pins and needles
- Blotches and blemishes in the skin
Some people will have none of these signs but may still be in the early stages of circulation changes.
At Family Doctor we offer a simple test to check for circulation problems.
This called Ankle-Brachial Index test (ABI). This test is done in the clinic to evaluate circulation in the legs. It begins by the nurse using specialist equipment to take blood pressures in the arms and at the ankles at the same time which then gives us a report of the blood flow in your legs. The exam takes about 10 minutes to perform and you will be asked to rest flat for this procedure.
The nurse will look at the skin on your legs and feet for colour changes, check skin temperature and the pulses in your legs and feet .
Your doctor will review your medical record to assess additional risk factors you may have for developing poor circulation, discuss the results of your ABI and if necessary order blood tests.
Poor circulation can have many unhappy repercussions for your body, especially your heart, brain and legs if left unchecked. If identified, early prevention and improvement is possible.
Ear Microscope & Microsuction
VASECTOMY
Vasectomy is a surgical procedure for male sterilization and/or permanent birth control.
A vasectomy can be performed in a hospital or clinic.
PREGNANCY TESTS
- Available from a drugstore or a health care provider
- Very accurate
- See a health care provider if your home pregnancy test is positive
Whether you are trying to get pregnant or are concerned about an unplanned pregnancy, a pregnancy test is an important tool. For many women, taking a pregnancy test can be stressful. It can bring up many emotions, including excitement and fear. But knowing you are pregnant as soon as possible can help you make the decisions that are right for you.
IUD INSERTS
IUD Birth Control – Mirena IUD – ParaGard IUD
The letters IUD stand for “intrauterine device.” IUDs are small, “T-shaped” devices made of flexible plastic. A health care provider inserts an IUD into a woman’s vagina.
IMPLANON
- A matchstick-sized rod that is inserted in the arm to prevent pregnancy
- Safe, effective, and convenient
- Must be inserted by a healthcare provider
Pharmacy
Located next door for all your prescription and pharmacy needs.
Their operating hours are:
Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 6.00pm
Saturday 9.00am – 12.00pm
Phone: (03) 5482 3456
Minor Surgery
- REMOVAL OF MOLES & SUNSPOTS
- VASECTOMIES
- I.U.D INSERTION
- CIRCUMCISIONS
- SUTURING
Medicals
We are an accredited Yellow Fever vaccine provider. You will need to see our accredited doctor Dr Karen Langston for administration of this vaccine. The yellow fever vaccine will attract an out of pocket cost of $105 to cover the cost of the vaccine.
Pathology Services
CLINICALABS PATHOLOGY for all your blood collection needs.
Now located within Rich River Health Group for your convenience.
OPENING HOURS:
Monday to Friday: 8.00am to 4.30pm
Saturday morning: 9.00am to 11.30am
PHONE: (03) 5480 2892
Family Planning
Ear Microscope and Microsuction
Microsuction is a technique for removing foreign bodies or impacted wax using a binocular operating microscope to look directly into the ear canal, and a fine suction device at low pressure is used to remove the wax. It is a DRY technique, as such there is no water or flushing required with this technique, which makes it ideal for people who cannot tolerate ear syringing, find it very uncomfortable, have grommets/perforated ear drums, or have an outer ear infection (also known as swimmers ear or otitis externa).
Certain cases of minor ear wax blockage can be treated at home using certain methods to soften the wax. However, if after trying a home treatment is unsuccessful and there is no improvement or the symptoms like blockage and itching persists, then you may need to consult one of our doctors for a microsuction technique to remove impacted wax or a foreign body.
One of our major areas of expertise is helping our patients to remove significant ear wax build-up in the ear canal through a quick, safe, and minimally invasive technique. Earwax build up can also become a big problem when it is pushed into the ear canal by objects such as cotton buds when trying to clean the ear.
The safest way to be rid of ear wax in the ear canal is to consult a medical professional.
Microsuction is one of the most effective and quick ways of removing ear wax. If you are constantly feeling pain or itching in the inner part of your ear, get in touch with us to make an appointment with your GP, to ascertain if this is a service you may need. We have qualified doctors on site to safely remove foreign bodies or impacted wax from your ear through microsuction, and they can also run all necessary checks on your ear to make the most suitable recommendation for your case.
Vaccinations
TRAVEL VACCINES (INCLUDING YELLOW FEVER)
(VACCINE’S SOLD ON SITE AT A RATE CHEAPER THAN CHEMISTS)
- HEPATITIS A & B
- MENINGITIS
- TYPHOID
- YELLOW FEVER
Ideally, make an appointment 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.
Most vaccines take time to become effective in your body and some vaccines must be given in a series over a period of days or sometimes weeks.
If it is less than 4 weeks before you leave, you should still see your doctor. You might still benefit from shots or medications and other information about how to protect yourself from illness and injury while travelling.
Are you aware of which types of vaccinations you or those traveling with you may need?
CDC divides vaccines for travel into three categories: routine, recommended, and required. While your doctor will tell you which ones you should have, it’s best to be aware of them ahead of time.
YELLOW FEVER
Yellow fever, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes, is endemic in certain areas of Africa and South America. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into some countries. Infants and children aged >9 months can be vaccinated if they travel to countries within the yellow fever-endemic zone.
CHILDHOOD VACCINATIONS
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoid and Pertussis Vaccine
Haemophilus influenzae Type b Conjugate Vaccine
Polio Vaccine
Rotavirus Vaccine
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine (MMR)
Varicella Vaccine
Meningococcal Vaccine
Pneumococcal Vaccines
Hepatitis A Vaccine or Immune Globulin for Hepatitis A
Q FEVER
Q Fever can be acquired from the air. Humans catch it from animals. Domestic and wild animals are infected, sometimes without any apparent signs of infection. The disease is caused by a germ called Coxiella Burnetti. Q Fever occurs almost everywhere in the world. In Australia, cattle, sheep and goats are the main reservoir, although kangaroos and dogs can be infected.
There is an effective vaccine against Q fever, however it has significant side effects in persons who have already had Q fever ( local abscesses and even Q fever symptoms)
Before vaccination, a person must have three things:
- A blood test
- A skin test
- A detailed history
These tests are undertaken to help avoid unwanted vaccine side effects. If one of the tests is positive, it means the subject would probably react badly to the vaccine.
Blood test and skin test need to be done on the SAME DAY. Then the person needs to return to the same doctor 7 days later to have the skin test read.
If both tests are negative, the person is vaccinated. It then takes about 2 weeks for the vaccine to become effective. This means persons vaccinated should not put themselves at risk ( e.g. visit abattoir) for 2 weeks after vaccination.
Each individual would discuss their particular situation at the time of screening. The vaccination is effective, and lasts for life.
Full Obstetric Service
CAESAREAN
Caesarean delivery — also known as a C-section — is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and a second incision in the mother’s uterus.
A C-section may be planned ahead of time if you develop pregnancy complications or you’ve had a previous C-section and aren’t considering vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC). Often, however, the need for a first-time C-section doesn’t become obvious until labor has already started.
If you’re pregnant, knowing what to expect during a C-section — both during the procedure and afterward — can help you prepare.
PRIVATE & PUBLIC CARE
Recall System
If the doctor requires patients to return after results of investigations have been received, a staff member will contact the patients and make a follow up appointment.
Results of investigations will not be given over the telephone.
Patients are asked to make an appointment for results of investigations.
To provide preventative care we offer a reminder service.
We use a computerized reminder system.
While we make every effort to send reminder letters, it is still the responsibility of the patient to return for further visits if your doctor has indicated this is necessary.
Meet The Doctors Consulting At Rich River Health Group
FLU CLINIC 1
FLU CLINIC 1
FLU CLINIC 1
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr Adrian Waldron
Dr Adrian Waldron
Dr Adrian Waldron
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr Greg Hay
Dr Greg Hay
Dr Greg Hay
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr Helen Rhode
Dr Helen Rhode
Dr Helen Rhode
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr Hina Hameed
Dr Hina Hameed
Dr Hina Hameed
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr James Teh
Dr James Teh
Dr James Teh
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr John Azzopardi
Dr John Azzopardi
Dr John Azzopardi
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr Peta Fielding
Dr Peta Fielding
Dr Peta Fielding
(Rich River Health Group)
Dr Stewart Gough
Dr Stewart Gough