Chronic Disease Management

If you have an ongoing medical condition, your GP can devise a structured care plan to help you achieve your health goals. During a chronic disease plan consultation, your GP will go through your medical history with you and formulate a personalised management plan to meet your care needs. Where appropriate, referrals may be made to specialists and other health professionals who form part of your chronic disease treating team. Eligible patients may receive up to five Medicare-subsidised sessions with an allied health professional as part of the care plan.

Some examples of conditions that qualify for a care plan include:

• Diabetes
• Asthma
• Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome)
• Endometriosis
• Coronary artery disease
• Osteoporosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

What do I need to do to get a chronic disease management plan?

The first step is to have a chat with your GP. They'll comprehensively review your medical history, current medications and lifestyle factors, and discuss your healthcare goals with you. If you're eligible, a follow-up appointment may be needed so enough time can be dedicated to putting your chronic disease management plan together.

It's useful to bring along any test results, specialist letters, medications, or previous referrals for your GP to review during the care plan appointment.