Chronic Disease Management
Chronic Disease Management in Wollongong
Living with a chronic condition means your health is always somewhere in the back of your mind. The appointments, the medications, the check-ins, it’s a lot to manage alongside everything else life throws at you.
At Wollongong Doctors, we understand that managing a long-term condition is not a one-off visit. It’s an ongoing relationship between you and your GP, built around understanding your health, your life, and what actually works for you.
What Is Chronic Disease Management?
A chronic condition is any health condition that lasts six months or longer and requires ongoing medical attention or has an impact on daily activities.
Common examples include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease and high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
- Chronic kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Osteoporosis
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression
- Chronic pain conditions
Living with a chronic condition can feel overwhelming at times. Speaking with a GP is an important step in understanding your condition and discussing what management options may be appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Chronic Disease Management at Our Wollongong Clinic
At Wollongong Doctors, chronic disease management is available as part of ongoing GP care. Our doctors take the time to understand your health history, current condition, medications, and lifestyle factors, and work with you to develop an approach to managing your health that suits your individual circumstances.
Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plans
If you have a chronic condition, you may be eligible for a Medicare-subsidised Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan.
These plans are designed to:
- Coordinate your care across multiple health professionals
- Set clear health goals that are realistic and tailored to your circumstances
- Provide access to Medicare rebates for allied health services such as physiotherapy, dietetics, and psychology under a CDM plan
- Give you and your GP a shared approach to managing your condition over time
Your GP will review your plan regularly to ensure it continues to meet your needs as your health changes. Your GP will advise whether a CDM Plan may be appropriate for your individual circumstances.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you come in for a chronic disease management consultation at Wollongong Doctors, your GP will:
- Review your current health status and any recent test results or specialist reports
- Discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any concerns you have
- Develop or review your Chronic Disease Management Plan, including goals and actions
- Coordinate referrals to specialists or allied health providers where appropriate
- Arrange any relevant investigations such as blood tests, ECGs, or pathology
- Discuss your medications and any adjustments that may be appropriate
- Book your next review to keep your care on track
It is helpful to bring a list of your current medications and any questions you would like to discuss. You are welcome to bring a support person to your appointment.
Allied Health Support Under Your Care Plan
For patients with an active Chronic Disease Management Plan, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates on up to five allied health visits per calendar year. At Wollongong Doctors, a range of allied health services are available onsite to support your ongoing care.
Allied health services that may be part of your care plan include:
- Physiotherapy
- Dietetics and nutrition
- Psychology and mental health support
- Podiatry
Your GP will refer you to the allied health services most appropriate for your individual condition and health goals.
Why Ongoing Reviews Matter
Chronic conditions can change over time. A medication that worked well previously may need adjusting. A change in lifestyle may open up new management options. Regular reviews with your GP support your ongoing care by helping to:
- Monitor any changes in your condition
- Keep your medications current and appropriate
- Adjust your care plan as your health goals evolve
- Identify any need for further investigation or specialist input
- Keep you informed and involved in decisions about your own health
Your GP will advise on how often a review appointment is appropriate based on your individual condition and circumstances.
Conditions We Commonly Support
Our GPs provide ongoing management support across a wide range of chronic and complex conditions, including but not limited to:
| Condition Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Cardiovascular | Hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure |
| Metabolic | Type 2 diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol |
| Respiratory | Asthma, COPD, sleep apnoea |
| Musculoskeletal | Arthritis, chronic back pain, osteoporosis |
| Mental Health | Anxiety, depression, chronic stress |
| Kidney and Thyroid | Chronic kidney disease, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism |
| Neurological | Migraines, chronic headaches |
If you are unsure whether your condition may be supported through a CDM Plan, speak with one of our GPs, who can advise on your options.
100% Bulk Billing Clinic
Wollongong Doctors is a bulk billing clinic. Patients with a valid Medicare card are bulk billed for GP consultations, meaning there is no out-of-pocket cost for your appointment.
Please note that some services may incur a private fee. We recommend contacting the clinic prior to your appointment to confirm the billing arrangements relevant to your specific care.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can children be seen at Wollongong Doctors?
A Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan is a structured care plan developed by your GP for patients with a chronic
or complex medical condition. It outlines your health needs, treatment goals, and the steps involved in your ongoing care. Your GP will advise whether a CDM Plan may be appropriate for your circumstances.
How many allied health visits am I entitled to under a CDM Plan?
Patients with an active CDM Plan may be eligible for Medicare rebates on up to five allied health visits per calendar year. Your GP will advise on which allied health services are most relevant to your care and arrange referrals where appropriate.
How often should I see my GP if I have a chronic condition?
The frequency of GP reviews will depend on your specific condition and individual health circumstances. Your GP will advise on how often a review is appropriate for you.
Do I need to register for MyMedicare to access CDM services?
Wollongong Doctors participates in MyMedicare. Speak with our team about registering, as this may provide access to additional Medicare-funded services for eligible patients with chronic conditions.
Is chronic disease management bulk billed at Wollongong Doctors?
Wollongong Doctors is a bulk billing clinic for GP consultations for patients with a valid Medicare card. Some services may incur a private fee. We recommend contacting our team to confirm the billing arrangements applicable to your care.
Can I bring my existing care plan to Wollongong Doctors?
Yes. If you have an existing care plan or specialist letters relating to your condition, bringing these to your appointment will help your GP understand your current management and continue your care effectively.
Where is Wollongong Doctors located?
We are located at LG W005, Wollongong Central, 200 Crown Street, Wollongong NSW 2500, next door to Chemist Warehouse. We welcome patients from across the Illawarra region.
Book an Appointment at Wollongong Doctors
Managing a long-term condition starts with a conversation. If you would like to discuss a Chronic Disease Management Plan or review how you are tracking with an existing condition, our team at Wollongong Doctors is available to assist.
