Our Services
Chronic Disease Management in Lismore
Managing a chronic health condition takes more than treating symptoms: it takes consistent, coordinated care that puts you at the centre. At Lismore Doctors, our GPs work with patients across Lismore and the wider Northern Rivers to provide ongoing support for a wide range of chronic conditions, whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been managing your health for years.
What Is Chronic Disease Management?
A chronic condition is generally defined as a health condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, six months or more. Chronic conditions often require ongoing medical attention, lifestyle management, and coordination across multiple healthcare providers.
Common chronic conditions managed in general practice include but are not limited to:
- Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
- Heart disease and cardiovascular conditions
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions
- Chronic kidney disease
- Thyroid conditions
- Osteoporosis
- Mental health conditions including anxiety and depression
If you are living with a chronic condition that is not listed here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our GPs manage a broad range of ongoing health needs and will work with you to find the most appropriate approach for your situation.
GP Management Plans and Team Care Arrangements
If you have a chronic condition, your GP may recommend developing a GP Management Plan (GPMP) and, where appropriate, a Team Care Arrangement (TCA). These are structured care plans developed in partnership with you that outline your health goals, the actions needed to achieve them, and the healthcare providers involved in your care.
A Team Care Arrangement allows eligible patients to access Medicare rebates for a set number of allied health services per calendar year, such as physiotherapy, psychology, or dietetics. Your GP will discuss whether these plans are appropriate for your individual situation.
Regular Reviews and Monitoring
Managing a chronic condition often comes down to regular monitoring and timely adjustments to your care plan. Our GPs will work with you to schedule regular reviews, order relevant tests and investigations, and adjust your treatment approach as your needs change over time.
Regular reviews may include:
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular risk monitoring
- Blood glucose and diabetes management reviews
- Lung function assessments for respiratory conditions
- Medication reviews and prescription management
- Referrals to specialists when clinically appropriate
- Coordination with allied health providers involved in your care
Allied Health Support
Managing a chronic condition often involves more than just GP care. At Lismore Doctors, our clinic is supported by a range of allied health professionals who work alongside our GP team to provide comprehensive, coordinated care. Depending on your needs, your GP may refer you to:
- Psychology
- Physiotherapy
- Dietetics
- Podiatry
- Chiropractic
Your GP will discuss which allied health services may be appropriate for your condition and whether you are eligible for Medicare rebates through a Team Care Arrangement.
Lifestyle and Preventive Health
For many chronic conditions, lifestyle factors play an important role in long-term management. Our GPs take a holistic approach to chronic disease care, which may include discussing nutrition, physical activity, smoking cessation, alcohol use, sleep, and mental wellbeing as part of your overall management plan.
We understand that making lifestyle changes is not always straightforward, and we’re here to support you in a practical, non-judgmental way. Small, sustainable steps can make a meaningful difference over time.
Bulk Billing for Chronic Disease Management
All patients with a valid Medicare card are bulk billed for eligible consultations at Lismore Doctors, meaning most standard GP visits come at no out-of-pocket cost.
Some services, investigations, or procedures related to chronic disease management may incur a private fee. Our reception team will always advise you of any applicable costs before your appointment. If you have questions about fees or eligibility, call us on (02) 5658 5644, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to Book
You can book a chronic disease management appointment at Lismore Doctors through HotDoc, available 24 hours a day.
- Visit hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/lismore-NSW-2480/lismore-doctors/doctors
- Select your preferred GP or choose the first available appointment
- Pick a date and time that suits you
- Enter your details and confirm your booking
- You’ll receive a confirmation by SMS or email
Prefer to call? Ring us on (02) 5658 5644, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you are managing an ongoing condition, we recommend booking with the same GP where possible to maintain continuity of care.
FAQ
A GP Management Plan outlines your health goals and the steps to manage your condition. A Team Care Arrangement builds on this by involving other healthcare providers in your care, and may allow eligible patients to access Medicare rebates for allied health services. Your GP will discuss whether either is right for you.
Our GPs can provide referrals to medical specialists as clinically appropriate.
