Managing Chronic Conditions Through Australian Healthcare

Living with a chronic health condition can be challenging, but Australia's healthcare system provides significant support for managing long-term health issues. From GP management plans to subsidised allied health services, understanding what is available can help you take control of your health and improve your quality of life.

What are Chronic Conditions?

Chronic conditions are long-lasting health problems that typically require ongoing management. Common chronic conditions include:

• Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
• Heart disease and heart failure
• Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Arthritis and chronic pain conditions
• Cancer (during and after treatment)
• Mental health conditions
• Kidney disease
• Neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis

Managing these conditions effectively often requires input from multiple healthcare providers and a coordinated approach to care.

GP Management Plans (GPMP)

A GP Management Plan is a structured document created by your GP that outlines how your chronic condition will be managed. To be eligible, you must have a chronic medical condition that has been present for at least six months or is likely to be present for at least six months.

Your GPMP will typically include:

• Your health assessment and current status
• Treatment goals and actions to achieve them
• Arrangements for monitoring and review
• Services and treatments needed
• Any medications you are taking

Having a GPMP ensures you and your GP are on the same page about managing your condition and provides a roadmap for your ongoing care.

Team Care Arrangements (TCA)

If your chronic condition requires care from multiple health professionals, your GP can establish Team Care Arrangements. A TCA involves at least three healthcare providers (including your GP) working together to manage your condition.

With a GPMP and TCA in place, you can access Medicare rebates for up to 5 allied health services per calendar year. These services may include:

• Physiotherapy
• Exercise physiology
• Dietetics
• Podiatry
• Psychology
• Occupational therapy
• Speech pathology
• Diabetes education

The specific services covered depend on your condition and what your GP determines is necessary for your care.

The Importance of Regular Reviews

Your GPMP and TCA should be reviewed regularly, at least every 3-6 months or more frequently if your condition changes. During reviews, you and your GP will:

• Assess your progress towards treatment goals
• Adjust the care plan as needed
• Ensure all team members are communicating effectively
• Address any new concerns or complications

These reviews are also Medicare-rebatable, so do not skip them due to cost concerns.

Diabetes Management

People with diabetes have access to additional support through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). This program provides subsidised access to:

• Blood glucose testing strips and monitors
• Insulin pump consumables
• Continuous glucose monitoring products
• Insulin and insulin pen needles

To register for the NDSS, you need confirmation of your diabetes diagnosis from your doctor and can then register at any NDSS Access Point, usually pharmacies.

Heart Disease Programs

If you have heart disease or have had a cardiac event, you may be eligible for cardiac rehabilitation programs. These structured programs include exercise training, education about heart disease, and support to modify risk factors. Many public hospitals and community health centres offer cardiac rehabilitation programs, often at no cost.

Medication Management

For people with chronic conditions, managing multiple medications can be complex. Pharmacists can help through:

• MedsCheck: A free in-pharmacy medication review for people taking five or more prescription medicines
• Dose administration aids: Pre-packed medication sachets organised by day and time
• Diabetes MedsCheck: Specific medication review for people with diabetes

These services help ensure you are taking your medications correctly and safely.

Self-Management Support

Effective chronic disease management relies heavily on what you do between healthcare appointments. Self-management involves:

• Understanding your condition and its treatment
• Taking medications as prescribed
• Monitoring symptoms and knowing when to seek help
• Making healthy lifestyle choices
• Managing the emotional impact of living with a chronic condition

Many communities offer chronic disease self-management programs that teach skills to help you manage your condition more effectively.

Building Your Healthcare Team

A strong relationship with your healthcare providers is essential for managing a chronic condition. Your team might include:

• Your GP as the coordinator of your care
• Specialists relevant to your condition
• Allied health professionals (physiotherapist, dietitian, etc.)
• Pharmacist
• Practice nurses

Communication between team members is crucial. Make sure each provider knows about the others involved in your care and share relevant information at each appointment.

Getting Started

If you have a chronic condition and do not yet have a GP Management Plan, speak to your doctor about whether this would be beneficial for you. Having a structured plan can improve your health outcomes and provide access to subsidised services that might otherwise be expensive. Find a GP near you using our healthcare directory and take the first step towards better chronic disease management.