Managing Chronic Conditions: A Guide for Patients
Chronic conditions require ongoing care, lifestyle adjustments, and regular check-ups to maintain quality of life. At Shelley Hub Family Practice, we provide personalised chronic disease management plans to help patients take control of their health. Whether you're managing diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, or heart disease, our experienced GPs work with you to create a care plan tailored to your needs.
Understanding Chronic Conditions
A chronic condition is a long-term health issue that requires ongoing medical attention and lifestyle management. Some of the most common chronic diseases include:
Diabetes (Type 1 & Type 2) – Blood sugar imbalances affect the body's ability to produce or use insulin effectively.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – Increased pressure in blood vessels, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Asthma & Respiratory Diseases – Chronic inflammation of the airways causing breathing difficulties.
Arthritis & Joint Disorders – Inflammation of the joints leading to pain and reduced mobility.
Cardiovascular Disease – Conditions affecting heart and blood vessel function.
Chronic Kidney Disease – Reduced kidney function impacts the body's ability to filter waste and fluids.
Managing a chronic condition effectively involves a combination of medical care, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing monitoring.
How Shelley Hub Family Practice Supports Chronic Disease Management
At Shelley Hub Family Practice, we offer Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plans under Medicare to help patients with long-term conditions receive the care they need. These plans provide Medicare-subsidised access to allied health services such as physiotherapy, dietetics, podiatry, and diabetes education.
1. Personalised Chronic Disease Management Plans (CDMPs)
A Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP), also known as a GP Management Plan (GPMP), helps coordinate long-term care by:
✔ Assessing your current health status.
✔ Setting realistic health goals and treatment strategies.
✔ Providing referrals to specialists or allied health professionals.
✔ Ensuring regular monitoring and follow-ups.
2. Team Care Arrangements (TCAs)
If you require multiple health professionals for treatment, our GPs can arrange a Team Care Arrangement (TCA), which enables you to access up to 5 Medicare-subsidised allied health services per year.
This may include:
✔ Dietitians & Nutritionists – Helping with meal plans for diabetes, heart health, or weight management.
✔ Physiotherapists – Assisting with pain relief and rehabilitation for arthritis or mobility issues.
✔ Exercise Physiologists – Developing safe, structured exercise plans to improve fitness and prevent complications.
✔ Podiatrists – Essential for diabetes management, reducing the risk of foot complications.
✔ Diabetes Educators – Providing strategies to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
Key Steps for Managing Your Condition
At Shelley Hub Family Practice, we believe in empowering patients to take charge of their health. Here are some key areas we focus on in chronic disease management:
1. Regular Health Check-ups & Monitoring
✔ Blood tests for diabetes, cholesterol, and kidney function.
✔ Blood pressure monitoring for heart disease prevention.
✔ Lung function tests for asthma and COPD.
2. Medication Reviews & Adjustments
✔ Ensuring your medications are effective and safe.
✔ Preventing side effects or drug interactions.
✔ Adjusting dosages when necessary.
3. Lifestyle and Diet Support
✔ Nutrition planning for weight management and disease control.
✔ Smoking cessation programs.
✔ Exercise and movement plan for joint and heart health.
4. Mental Health & Emotional Well-being
✔ Providing support for stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often linked to chronic conditions.
✔ Referrals to mental health professionals if needed.
When to See Your GP
Even if you feel well, regular check-ups help prevent complications and keep your health in check. You should book an appointment if you:
✔ Experience worsening symptoms or new concerns.
✔ Need medication adjustments or renewals.
✔ Want to discuss lifestyle changes or preventive care options.
✔ Require referrals to allied health professionals.
At Shelley Hub Family Practice, we take a holistic approach to chronic disease management, ensuring you receive ongoing support, education, and medical care tailored to your needs.
Book your Chronic Disease Management appointment today to start your journey towards better health and well-being.
Shelley Hub Family Practice – Committed to Your Long-Term Health.