4/1/2021:  Consultation fees for 2021

Please be advised of amended consultation fees by reviewing the webpage entitled 'Fees 2021'.  Thank you kindly.

18/12/2020:  Festive Season closure 

Dr Ison commences her annual Christmas leave after close of business today, 18th December 2020.  

The Wellness Clinic will then be closed for 3 weeks and will reopen for the New Year on Monday 11th January 2021.

After a difficult year of coronavirus pandemic, we wish everyone a joyous and peaceful Christmas.  May 2021 bring us all good health and good fortune.  As per usual instructions from The Wellness Clinic, should you require acute medical care over the festive season please go to your local GP Medical Centre or Hospital Emergency Department.

30/9/2020:  TeleHealth extended under new arrangement from Oct 1st

'Whole of population’ Telehealth services were introduced by the Australian Federal Government on 30 March 2020 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.  The new COVID-19 items were initially available only to patients and providers with COVID-19 or at risk of the virus.  However the scope of Telehealth services was subsequently and rapidly expanded by popular demand such that Telehealth is currently available to all Medicare-eligible persons for the treatment of any condition until March 30, 2021.

From 6 April to 30 September 2020 inclusive, it was a legislative requirement that the new Telehealth services must be bulk billed for:

Commonwealth concession card holders, Children under 16 years old and Patients who are more vulnerable to COVID-19.

Health providers were free to apply their usual billing practices to the Telehealth items for all other patients however Dr Ison decided to apply universal bulk billing for all TeleHealth consultations for the 6 month period of March to September 2020.

Please be advised that from October 1, 2020, The Wellness Clinic will continue to offer the option of Telehealth consultations but bulk billing will no longer apply.  There will be a time based, fee-for-service schedule for Telehealth which exactly aligns with our current fees for face-to-face consultations.  Plus the same Medicare rebates apply, which means that out-of-pocket costs remain equivalent for whichever mode of consultation.  

Providers are expected to obtain informed financial consent from patients prior to providing the service - regarding fees and out-of-pocket costs - and our Receptionists can assist you with this information.  

Please keep in mind that a service may only be provided by Telehealth where it is safe and clinically appropriate to do so.


31/7/2020:  Dr Ison's books are now closed to new patients as of August 2020

Sincere apologies to any newly enquiring patients but The Wellness Clinic is now at capacity with current patient load.   Hence we are unable to accept any new patients at this time.   As circumstances are always changing, please feel free to enquire again in 6 months time (February 2021).

14/4/2020:  Business as usual (sort of) at The Wellness Clinic

Given the clear guidelines below, from "the powers that be" who are managing the COVID crisis nationally,  Dr Ison has decided the following:  

From Easter Tuesday (today) onwards, we will be conducting as many health reviews and health assessments as is sensibly possible.  

In other words, please do not feel you have to defer your scheduled appointments due to the coronavirus situation.  

Keep in mind The Wellness Clinic does not operate as a general practice (with a waiting room full of sick patients) and so this makes us a relatively safe place to attend.  Rather, our core business is helping people stay well by doing their regular preventive health checks and assisting people with chronic disease(s) to manage their condition(s) well and achieve their best health. 

Please be reassured that infection control measures and standards are very high at The Hills Private Hospital.

It is important that you do not attend your appointment if you are unwell with respiratory symptoms.  Instead please telephone for advice.

Also, it is fine to reschedule your appointment if you are worried about coming out of self-isolation.

If you are a vulnerable or at-risk person (e.g. 70+ years, pregnant, immune-suppressed e.g. cancer patient) it is safer to stay at home and do a TeleHealth consultation with Dr Ison over the telephone.

Your kind cooperation in these difficult times is much appreciated.


8/4/2020:  Federal Health Minister urges Australians to get their health checks, saying it's OK to visit the doctor during the COVID-19 crisis​

Transcript: AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, Health Minister Greg Hunt, and Deputy Chief Medical Officer Michael Kidd, Press Conference, Parliament House, Canberra, Wednesday, 8 April 2020

Subject COVID-19 update


GREG HUNT:  "Today is about focussing on the health care of Australians beyond just the coronavirus, and supporting our healthcare workers.Today, we have two very simple messages. One, is about supporting your health.

Even during the coronavirus, we still have to take care of- whether it’s cardiac conditions, whether it’s oncology conditions, whether it's tension or blood pressure or any of the other ordinary conditions which are part of our day-to-day health management.

That means - call the doctor. See the doctor if that's a face-to-face consultation that's required. But don't ignore the doctor. For all of these health conditions, we want Australians to continue to focus on their ordinary health as well as the coronavirus management."


MICHAEL KIDD:  "Thank you, Minister. I'm a general practitioner and I want to speak as a GP to you today.

One of the things that we know from the experience of past epidemics and pandemics around the world is that often people do not continue to get the regular healthcare they need. And sometimes, we see more morbidity and mortality occurring from preventable chronic conditions than actually occur from the infectious agent itself, and that's why it's incredibly important that everybody in Australia continues to receive the healthcare which they would normally be receiving at this time.

If you have an acute health problem that is worrying you, please reach out to your general practitioner. You can do this either by the telephone, by video consultation, using the new opportunities that telehealth offers us all, or through making an appointment and making a face-to-face consultation in your doctor's surgery.

If you have a chronic health condition which requires you to see your GP or your specialist regularly, please continue to do so. Again, reach out to their practice, make an appointment, either through telehealth or through a face-to-face consultation.

If you're taking medication every day to prevent a chronic condition from getting worse, if you have hypertension, diabetes, asthma or other conditions, please continue to take your medication. And if you run out of your medication, contact your GP, contact your local pharmacy. There are measures in place to get your medications to you.

If you are someone who needs to have regular blood tests done, it's important that you continue to have your blood tests done. So again, reach out to your GP or your specialist; arrange to have your pathology provider to take your blood and get your blood tests done as well.

I know many people are very worried about leaving their own homes, but it is totally acceptable to leave your own home to attend a medical appointment, to attend a pharmacy, to get a blood test done, if this is what is required. But while you do that, please make sure that you are adhering to the physical distancing measures which are in place to protect you and to protect everyone across Australia.

If you have a mental health condition, again, it is incredibly important that you continue to stay in touch with your therapist. And again, this can be carried out through telehealth. We, the healthcare providers of Australia, want to work with you to make sure that you stay fit and healthy and well during this pandemic. We are working with you to make sure that everybody stays safe, stays well.

Can I finish by saying my thanks to all my colleagues across Australia for the exceptional work that everybody is doing to keep the people of Australia safe and well. Thank you."


30/03/2020:  Bulk-billed Telehealth services now available at The    Wellness Clinic

Commencing today, patients have the option to switch their upcoming face-to-face medical appointment to a telephone consultation.  Dr Ison has committed to bulk-billing this service during the COVID-19 crisis.  Telehealth is an eminently sensible option for when there is no necessity to have an in-person attendance.  It is particularly suitable for follow up consultations to discuss results and to review health management.  It is also appropriate for patients to be able to remotely access advice or support from their doctor during this worrying time.  

Until further notice, The Wellness Clinic remains open to serve you either in-person or by Telehealth.  Please call 9686 0700 to organise your appointment.  All requests for Telehealth service will be honoured, as promptly as is possible, for existing patients of the clinic.

29/03/2020:  Telehealth services will be available to all patients

                    for the duration of the COVID crisis

A breakthrough agreement brokered by the AMA with the Federal Government for expanded telehealth access to general practitioners and other medical specialists will allow continuation of normal patient care, and reduce the need for scarce Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

The $669 million breakthrough agreement was announced this morning by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Health Minister Greg Hunt.

AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said the new telehealth arrangements will allow even more patients from this week to have consultations with general practitioners and some other medical specialists without leaving home.

Dr Bartone said that the AMA has been working with the Federal Government for weeks to ensure that telehealth is widely available so that patients can access care without the risk of exposure to or spread of the coronavirus.

“This is vital in ensuring that usual patient care can continue comprehensively despite the increasing threat of COVID-19,” Dr Bartone said.

“The new telehealth arrangements to be implemented in the coming days will support patient consultations, which do not require a physical examination, to be conducted with general practitioners and some other medical specialists by telehealth.

“Patients who still need to visit their doctor can continue to do so.

“This also means that patients can maintain their home isolation.

“Doctors will be able to conduct telehealth consultations from their practices or while they themselves may be in home isolation. And it will reduce public hospital presentations that could have occurred without telehealth access.

“Critically, it will reduce avoidable use of PPE. Doctors at present require PPE for any patient with symptoms suggesting potential COVID-19. Telehealth consultations require no PPE. It will cut down use of PPE, freeing the scarce supply for use elsewhere in the health system.”

Dr Bartone said that, as part of the negotiations with Health Minister Hunt, the AMA raised concerns about the ongoing sustainability of medical practices should they face business disruption or closure following exposure to COVID-19.

“The Prime Minister and Minister Hunt have today made it easier for patients to see their doctors, and for doctors to keep operating their practices as all Australians work to contain the spread of Covid-19 and stay safe and healthy.

“It may take some patients and doctors who are not familiar with telehealth some time to adjust, but the adjustment will be worthwhile,” Dr Bartone said.

Ref: AMA online, 29 March 2020

24/03/2020:  Telehealth to be expanded for all patients 

GPs will be able to bulk bill telehealth services for all Australians from next week.

The Federal Government has heeded the call of thousands of GPs amid the coronavirus pandemic, opening up the telehealth eligibility criteria to all Australians.

GPs will be able to bulk bill phone or video consultations with all patients from next week in a bid to help contain the rapid spread of coronavirus, AAP has reported.

The Federal Government has expanded the eligibility criteria to include all GPs, specialists, and mental health and allied health professionals.

‘This has been one of the most significant changes we’ve seen in Australian general practice in my working lifetime of 35 years,’ Professor Michael Kidd, Principal Medical Adviser to the Department of Health, said.

The reform follows continued advocacy from the RACGP, and other medical and patient groups, who have been working tirelessly with the Federal Government to co-design the response to the pandemic.

As it stood, the eligibility criteria for bulk-billed telehealth only included suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus), and particularly vulnerable cohorts. Anyone between the ages of one and 70 (or one and 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) had been excluded.

‘The RACGP has said from the start, we need telephone and videoconferencing item numbers for all patients. We need them to continue providing quality care so we can protect patients, GPs, and their teams,’ RACGP President Dr Harry Nespolon told newsGP. ‘We have been working closely with Minister Hunt and the Department of Health to achieve this.

‘We thank the minister and the department for listening to our concerns, and addressing them. There is still work to be done, but we think we can get there within the week.’

Telehealth expansion has been seen elsewhere in the world as confirmed cases soar, with GPs in the UK advised to consult patients remotely where possible. Similarly, in the US President Donald Trump has rolled out telehealth accessibility for all Medicare recipients.

Locally, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt praised the opening up of telehealth to all Australians as ‘an extremely important development’.

‘Very important to stress, however, that a very large proportion of GP services of course require face-to-face treatment,’ he said.

Meanwhile, Private Healthcare Australia chief executive Rachel David said private health funds are working to expand consultations for mental health services. Dr David also called on health funds to give relief to members experiencing financial difficulty as a result of the pandemic.

General practices have been feeling mounting pressure. Rapidly changing medical advice has meant staff members are constantly inundated with requests for information, while personal protection equipment (PPE) shortages have been worsening.

The Federal Government has said it will continue to work with the RACGP and other peak bodies, with the next stages of the response expected to be confirmed by the end of this week.

Ref: NewsGP 24 March 2020

22/03/2020:  Urgent COVID-19 update regarding​ 'Shutdown' arrangements and Medical Practices

A letter to AMA members from NSW Branch President, Dr Kean-Seng Lim:


Dear Dr Ison

AMA (NSW) is welcoming the increased physical distancing measures introduced by the National Cabinet managing the COVID-19 crisis that take effect from midday tomorrow.

We wrote to the Premier on Friday to encourage the NSW Government to consider the evidence and to determine if further measures were required.

We have confirmed that medical services are not subject to the shutdown and therefore practices are able to continue to operate.

In addition, while we congratulate the Government for enabling greater access to Telehealth Services for some patients and some providers, we believe there is a need to broaden this to allow doctors to provide their usual care in a safer manner for both providers and patients.

It has been the AMA's position, since it first started campaigning on this issue, that there be broad access to telehealth wherever clinically appropriate.

Our colleagues at Federal AMA are continuing to lobby the Government on your behalf on this issue.

Practices should still be actively implementing social distancing and other risk management arrangements.

We are aware there is potential for a further escalation of these shutdown measures and will continue to engages with the Government in this regard.

AMA (NSW) will be providing more advice for members as soon as it is available.

Contact AMA (NSW)

P: 02 9439 8822

F: 02 9438 3760

[email protected]

PO Box 121, St Leonards NS

12/03/2020:  Coronavirus Alert

Today the WHO has declared a worldwide pandemic for COVID-19.   Please be advised that, in the public health interest of containing transmission of the virus, you should henceforth (until further notice) not attend The Wellness Clinic, or enter The Hills Private Hospital, if you have any respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, runny/blocked nose, and/or cough.   

If you have respiratory symptoms and are a recently returned traveller, 

you should telephone the COVID-19 National Hotline (24/7) on 1800 020 080 for advice about where and how to get a coronavirus test.

If you have respiratory symptoms and have had contact with a confirmed coronavirus case, 

you should telephone the COVID-19 National Hotline (24/7) on 1800 020 080 for advice about where and how to get a coronavirus test.  

If you have respiratory symptoms but are not a recently returned traveller, nor have you been in contact with a confirmed coronavirus case, 

you should self-isolate at home until you recover and/or you should seek medical attention if your condition worsens. 

Coronavirus Update to GPs as of 8/3/2020 from the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Brendan Murphy


Dear Colleagues,

I am writing to update you on the COVID-19 outbreak situation in Australia and internationally, and to outline the Commonwealth’s current and future support for the central role you are playing in our national response.

Communication

There has been a significant amount of advice and information already provided to health professionals. I recognise that the evolving nature of this outbreak has required public health advice to evolve rapidly with the emerging epidemiology. This has made it more challenging for people to keep it up to date, and has led to some confusion and a perception of inconsistency of information/information gaps.

We are addressing this and will enhance communication to primary care, starting with this letter and followed up by twice-weekly newsletters to all GPs in Australia, together with regular GP webinars.

There is the very real possibility that larger scale community outbreaks will occur across Australia, placing a significant burden on the health system, in which you play an absolutely critical frontline role.

Situation as at 8 March 2020

As you will be aware, the international situation has changed materially in the last few weeks. Cases have now been reported in over 90 countries, some with sustained widespread community transmission. Despite our success in containing the initial cases associated with travellers from China, we are now seeing the expected second wave of imported cases from a number of countries (most notably Iran).

We have evidence of limited community transmission in Sydney. New imported cases are being seen every day, some from countries not previously identified as high risk. It is no longer realistic that we will be able to prevent further importation of cases, and further local outbreaks seeded from imported cases are likely.

Disease characteristics

Before I outline to you what we are doing to improve our support of the primary care response to COVID-19, I will share with you our current state of knowledge about COVID-19.

It is clear that a great majority of people with COVID-19 infection (>80%) have mild disease, not requiring any specific health intervention. This mild disease contributes to the high transmissibility of the virus, as many people with infection will continue working and interacting with the community because their symptoms are so mild.

There is very little evidence of significant COVID-19 disease in children. Initially, it was suggested that children were less susceptible to infection, but more recent evidence supports the fact that children may be infected, in many cases without being aware of symptoms. The role children play in transmission is unknown.

The greatest concern remains the relatively small number of cases with severe pulmonary disease, some with a fatal outcome. We still don’t have certainty about the case fatality rate (CFR) for COVID-19, as the estimates from some countries appear to be over-estimated by under ascertainment of mild cases. It seems reasonable to assume a CFR of around 1% in a country like Australia with a strong health system – it may even be lower. We do know that the majority of fatal outcomes have been seen in the elderly, or people with comorbidities.

Current approach to response

At present our response, under the Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for COVID-19, is focused on early identification of cases, isolation, contact tracing and quarantine where indicated – under the supervision and direction of the public health unit in each state or territory.

If more widespread community transmission occurs, the focus will shift to early detection and home isolation of cases to prevent or delay transmission, with less emphasis on identifying contacts who are generally unlikely to be very infectious, unless they themselves also develop symptoms.

We will let you know if and when such a shift in the public health response is indicated. Even in a large-scale outbreak, isolation of as many cases as possible can play a critical role in flattening the epidemic curve.

Testing

Testing for COVID-19 infection is currently focused on those people with respiratory symptoms who have a relevant travel history or who have been in contact with cases. Testing has largely been done so far by public health laboratories, but I am pleased to advise that we are working on further expanding access under Medicare to private pathology laboratories for the SARS CoV2 virus (COVID-19 virus). It is important at this time that all positive results are immediately reported to the state/territory public health unit, whose contacts are provided at the end of this letter.

Reducing exposure in health care settings

It is clear that, with increasing cases of COVID-19, there will be benefit in more sophisticated strategies to prevent the co-mingling of suspect or proven cases with other patients in healthcare settings. We have previously advised members of the community that, if they believe that they could potentially have or be exposed to COVID-19, they should phone their GP or local health service and seek advice before attending. If followed, this practice has allowed the practice or hospital to make arrangements for isolation and testing.

As case numbers increase, there is a need for new strategies. We will shortly be announcing to the community an expansion of the COVID-19 national hotline (1800 020 080). This hotline will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Expansion of the national hotline is part of our strategy to support general practices manage the flow of cases.

People who believe that they may have been exposed to or have COVID-19 will be encouraged to call the national hotline to seek advice. A standard protocol for the call centre operators will be provided. We will share call centre information and the triage protocol with you shortly, as many GP practices have asked to have the same protocol available for their reception staff to ensure consistent messaging and patient disposition.

Respiratory clinics

We are also actively developing across the nation a series of COVID-19 respiratory clinics, dedicated to the assessment of suspected cases and early treatment of patients with mild symptoms. Some of these are being established by state and territory health services and we are looking at complementing these with a limited number of primary care respiratory clinics at volunteer general practices who have the appropriate infrastructure and capability. Additional infection control training and support will be provided.

The Primary Health Networks (PHNs), in collaboration with the GP colleges and other stakeholders, will be rapidly seeking interest from practices who might wish to be involved. A time-limited separate funding model will be developed, cognisant of the nature and costs of this specialised practice, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided to these clinics. Rural and regional areas will need special consideration and arrangements.

Some patients will continue to contact their usual general practice and want assessment and advice from that trusted source. It will clearly be helpful for clinic reception staff to have the standard triage protocol available. Practices may choose (as per the triage protocol) to refer patients to the dedicated clinics or health services, to undertake a remote telemedicine consultation (see below) or to make safe arrangements to see the patient at the clinic or in their place of residence.

Government is currently considering the time-limited expansion of telemedicine MBS items to enable remote consultation of patients with suspected COVID-19 and at-risk patients who will not want to be exposed to COVID-19 by attending the clinic. More details on these proposed telemedicine items will be announced very soon.

PPE

Some GPs have expressed concern about the availability of PPE, in particular surgical masks, which are the appropriate PPE for use with most patients with respiratory symptoms. A further 260,000 masks from the national medical stockpile were announced this weekend on top of the 750,000 already distributed to PHNs and we will work closely with PHNs to ensure appropriate supply arrangements.

We appreciate that it can be frustrating if only small numbers of masks are distributed at any one time. Masks are in very short supply worldwide and we need to conserve them at this time until our emergency procurement plan delivers a significantly enhanced stockpile in coming weeks. We recognise the need to supply GPs who are assessing potential COVID-19 patients and are focusing our efforts there.

There has been a change to messages about what PPE is required in the clinical assessment of potential COVID-19 cases. All of the evidence currently suggests that droplet spread is the main mode of transmission and that surgical masks are effective for routine care and non-aerosolising procedures (and much easier to appropriately fit than are P2 masks). Only where there is uncontrolled coughing are P2/n95 masks needed, and general practices will generally divert such patients to hospitals at this time. For your reference, the current PPE guidelines endorsed by the expert COVID19 infection control committee are available on the Department of Health website.

Vulnerable groups

In the meeting with primary care stakeholders last week, a commitment was made on a range of initiatives, many outlined above. We are very aware that additional work is needed in the residential aged care sector and for vulnerable groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These have been the subject of separate planning workshops and will have their own strategies, which will be shared with you, acknowledging the roles of GPs in these areas.

Community campaign

We will also be undertaking a broad community education campaign on COVID-19. One of the important messages will be the value of standard hygiene messages (hand washing, cough etiquette, social distancing) in preventing transmission. I am sure that you will play a role in communicating that message to your patients along with general balanced information about this virus.

Please be on the lookout for our regular twice-weekly communiques where we will be providing information about respiratory clinics, pathology testing, PPE, temporary MBS telemedicine items and the like. You will also be given details of the planned weekly webinars on COVID-19 that we will be conducting.

No-one can accurately predict how the COVID-19 outbreak will develop in Australia. Our collective response has to be flexible and collaborative.

The Australian Government has committed to providing the necessary resources to support the response in whatever form it needs to take. The critical role of primary care in this response is well understood and greatly appreciated.

Finally, can I apologise for this very long letter. We doctors hate reading long correspondence but there is a lot of information to convey. We will endeavour to keep our twice-weekly newsletters on COVID-19 to one page.

Contact details for state and territory public health units

ACT – 02 5124 9213 (or 02 9962 4155 after hours)

SA – 1300 232 272

NSW – 1300 066 055

Tas – 1800 671 738

NT – 08 8922 8044

Vic – 1300 651 160

Qld – 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84)

WA – 08 9328 0553 

News

« Back to News « Older Entry | Newer Entry »

Archived News 2014 - 2011.

Posted on October 15, 2014 at 9:05 PM

Genital warts in young women declining (13 October 2014 at 19:46)

Since the start of the free school HPV vaccination program for Australian girls in 2007, there has been a 61% drop in young women presenting to GPs with genital warts. The decline in cases has been steady since 2007 onwards. However the incidence in older women, who were ineligible for free vaccination, has remained unchanged.

Ref: BEACH Study data reported in PLoS One 2014; online 2 Sept


Guzzling food associated with Metabolic Syndrome (13 October 2014 at 19:44)

A Japanese study has found that people who eat quickly are more likely to have markers of metabolic syndrome than their slow-eating peers, and weight gain explains only part of the association.

The study of 56,800 adults found self-report of 'fast eating' was positively linked to metabolic syndrome, particularly among men.

Most of this association was attenuated after adjusting for BMI but several associations remained significant, including slow eating and decreased odds of hypertension in men and women.

The researchers concluded there may be pathways other than weight gain that underlie the association between eating rate and metabolic syndrome.

Ref: BMJ Open 2014; online 5 Sept


Prediabetes increases Cancer risk (13 October 2014 at 19:42)

According to researchers, people with prediabetes are at increased risk of developing certain types of cancers including liver, stomach, pancreas, breast and uterine cancers. The association persisted even after controlling for BMI.

Researchers speculate that chronic oxidative stress and hyperglycaemia may act as carcinogens and factors related to insulin resistance may cause cancer cells to proliferate. While the exact mechanism remains unclear, the study does indicate that pathology begins at very early sugar elevation.

The research conducted was a meta-analysis of 16 studies, including data from almost 900,000 patients.  

Ref: Diabetologia 2014; online 10 Sept


Websites for Weight Loss (13 October 2014 at 19:40)

www.eatforhealth.gov.au

www.calorieking.com.au

www.8700.com.au

www.shapeup.gov.au

Ref: Opinion piece by Dr Bryan Palmer, GP, Australian Doctor 26 September 2014.


Debunking Superfoods (13 October 2014 at 19:30)

The term 'superfood' has no definition but it's hard to miss lists of 'superfoods'. Many feature vegetables, fruits and seeds, with anything originating from South America the flavour of the month, according to Rosemary Stanton, one of Australia's leading nutritionists. Current list toppers include Kale, Watercress, Chinese cabbage, Chard (silverbeet), Beet greens, Parsley and Chives. Lemons are the top fruit, in 28th spot. Rankings are based on 100g servings and ignore the variable difficulty of actually consuming 100g.

Other 'superfoods' currently in vogue are Quinoa (now growing in Tasmania!), Inca berries, Acai berries, Lucuma (a South American fruit), Maca (a Peruvian root) and Sacha inca (a Peruvian tree nut). Dr Stanton's take home message is as follows: "Anything that promotes vegetables, fruit or seeds is helpful, but beware of entrepreneurial marketers and those who sell extracts of 'superfoods' at super prices with super claims.

 Ref: Opinion piece by Dr Rosemary Stanton, Australian Doctor 26 September 2014


Do health professionals recommend e-cigarettes? (13 October 2014 at 19:35)

If smokers chose to use e-cigarettes as a quitting or harm-reduction strategy, they should do so knowing that evidence is currently lacking on effectiveness and safety. Flavoured or unflavoured E-cigarette devices (without nicotine) can be purchased legally in all Australian states except WA.

However sale of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes, and the nicotine-containing solution for e-cigarettes, is currently illegal in Australia under the Commonwealth Therapeutic Good Act 1989. The current recommendation from a number of organisations, including the RACGP, the Australian Association of Smoking Cessation Professionals and the Lung Foundation Australia, is that smokers should be encouraged to use approaches to quitting that have been shown to be effective and safe.

 The most effective method for smokers who are nicotine-dependent is the combination of evidence-based counselling and TGA-registered smoking cessation pharmacotherapy. Smokers should be encouraged to aim for complete cessation of smoking, as any level of tobacco consumption is harmful to health. Having said this, the use of e-cigarettes (all of which are tobacco free) to assist smoking cessation can be considered on a case-by-case basis for those who have failed to quit with current approved therapies.

 Ref: Opinion piece by Professor Nick Zwar, Australian Doctor 19 September 2014


Resurgence of Polio threat in Africa (13 October 2014 at 19:30)

Experts say several countries in Africa are at high risk of wild poliovirus outbreaks, despite renewed efforts to stamp out the disease. Since 2011, outbreaks have occurred in 31 formerly polio-free countries in Africa, with the majority originating in Nigeria where the disease is endemic.

Ref: MMWR 2014; 63: 756 -61


Twenty naevi rule for melanoma (13 October 2014 at 19:20)

Having more than 20 naevi (moles) on the arm is a simple rule to identify people at high risk of melanoma, dermatologists say. In a new study Italian clinicians have shown that, in a person under 50, it is an independent predictor of a high total naevi count and thus melanoma risk. In such cases a total body skin examination by the doctor, on a regular basis, is warranted.

Ref: European Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014; 23: 458-63


CAM Industry Booming (13 October 2014 at 19:25)

Australians are apparently spending $3.5 billion a year on complementary and alternative medicine as a result of a continued boom in sales of vitamins and supplements. A survey report commissioned by Complementary Medicines Australia - the industry lobby group - claimed that the industry was "vital", saying consumers were turning to "complementary medicines to fill their nutrition deficit with vitamins and dietary supplements. The report quotes Australian Bureau of Statistics figures that suggest only 6% of Australian adults are meeting the daily required intake of vegetables. Overall, krill oil was said to be the "fastest-selling supplement".

Ref: Australian Doctor, 15 Aug 2014


Announcing a new service! (14 April 2014 at 19:35)

•This month, Dr Ison is proud to launch The Adolescent Clinic.

•This a clinic designed to focus on the health needs of adolescents and appointments are available for out-of-school hours.

•Issues such as acne, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, general check-ups, learning difficulties, menstrual problems, puberty, social problems, stress and weight issues are just some of the concerns that can be addressed in this clinic.

•Medical consultations with Dr Ison are for half an hour and cost $110

•Your minimum Medicare rebate is $70.30

•Management Plans and referrals can be arranged.

•To deliver compassionate and coordinated care is our goal.

•The Adolescent Clinic runs in parallel to The Wellness Clinic.

•Both clinics are located at The Children's Doctor Practice, 129 Wrights Rd Castle Hill.

•For all appointments please contact Reception on 9680 2708


National Prevention Week: Monday 7th April, 2014 (14 April 2014 at 19:31)

Prevention magazine today announced the launch of National Prevention Week — in its second year, the national initiative is designed to increase awareness of preventative health and how it could change the country’s health outlook forever.

Jacqueline Mooney, Editor, Prevention says, “In Australia today, there are so many important health issues that need to be addressed. This year, an estimated 15,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, around 280 people a day develop diabetes, more than three million adults have high cholesterol, and heart disease remains our biggest killer. The good news is, with just a few simple changes, like eating well, drinking less and moving more, the risk of all these diseases can be drastically reduced.”

 Research shows that up to 60% of type 2 diabetes cases can be prevented; an hour per day of vigorous walking can reduce breast cancer risk by 25%; and according to Alzheimer’s Australia, by reducing the current physical inactivity rate just 5% every five years, the prevalence of dementia would drop an impressive 11% by 2051.

 “Those at the forefront of wellness know prevention is the future of health. And it’s this groundswell of positivity that underpins everything National Prevention Week is all about. We don’t just want to ‘prevent’ illness; we want to feel stronger, live longer and squeeze every last drop out of life," adds Mooney.

 Online Ref: mumbrella.com.au/prevention

'

Taskercise' - combine exercise with your tasks! (26 March 2014 at 22:13)

 Check out Caroline Barnes' tips on how the busy person can combine exercise with their everyday tasks.

 Go to www.taskercise.com to learn dozens of 'taskercises' designed to help you tone up and slim down.


Does doing housework count as exercise? (9 March 2014 at 12:03)

 Current lifestyle approaches to physical activity include the promotion of domestic physical activities such as do-it-yourself home maintenance, gardening and housework. Although it is acknowledged that any activity is better than none, there is a danger that those undertaking domestic 'chores' may assume that this activity is moderate intensity and therefore counts towards the physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes per week.

 A recent study published in BMC Public Health identified that domestic physical activity does account for a significant proportion of self-reported daily moderate-vigorous physical activity, particularly among females and older adults. However the researchers found such domestic activity is negatively associated with leanness, suggesting that this activity may not be sufficient to provide all of the benefits normally associated with meeting the physical activity guidelines. My editorial....For best health we need to do some exercise as well as our domestic chores!

 Ref: BMC Public Health. 2013;13(966)


How good is your health provider's Hand-Hygiene? (8 February 2014 at 10:50)

Hand hygiene is considered one of the most important measures for preventing healthcare-associated infections. Alcohol-based hand rubs are recommended as the preferred method of hand hygiene in most clinical situations when hands are not dirty or visibly soiled. Compared with soap and water, alcohol-based hand rubs are more effective in reducing bacterial counts on hands, can be placed in more convenient locations, take less time to use, and cause less skin irritation and dryness.

Ref: Medscape Infectious Diseases, 15 Jan 2014.


Today’s top headlines in the field of Public Health and Prevention Medicine (8 February 2014 at 10:40)

 "A new recreational street drug known as Spice (a synthetic cannabis) has been linked to stroke, heart attack and acute kidney injury".

"Alcohol-related deaths continue to rise".

"Moderate caffeine consumption enhances memory consolidation".

 Ref: Medscape Public Health online 29.1.2014


India breaks free of Polio (8 February 2014 at 10:44)

It has been three years since India reported its last case of polio, thus paving the way for India to be declared free of the virus and boosting efforts to wipe out the disease globally.

Ref: Reuters Health Information, 13 Jan 2014


Best Diets for 2014 (8 February 2014 at 10:43)

Just in time to help us with those New Year's weight loss goals, the new annual ''Best Diets'' list was reported by US News & World Report on January 7, 2014.

To read about which diets were winners and which were losers, go to www.webmd.com/news/ and click on DASH Diet.


Revised recommendations for Lung Cancer screening (12 January 2014 at 13:04)

 The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has significantly updated its recommendations on lung cancer screening. Their conclusion, finalised 31 December 2013, is that there is now "moderate certainty" that annual screening is of "moderate net benefit" for individuals with a smoking history.

 The USPSTF now recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for adults between the ages of 55 to 80 years who have a moderate to heavy smoking history and who currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years. This consensus is yet to be reflected in Australia's guidelines for preventive activities in general practice.

 Ref: Ann Intern Med. Published online December 31, 2013; RACGP-Redbook Guidelines 8th Ed.


Festive season 2013 (24 December 2013 at 16.45)

 Please be advised The Wellness Clinic will be closed after today, Christmas Eve, and will re-open on January 6th 2014.

 The Wellness Doctors wish you a joyful and peaceful Christmas and good health and happiness in 2014!


Latest News on Nutrition and Health (4 September 2013 at 20:59)

“Certain fruits linked to lower diabetes risk”

“Coffee! Lower risk for prostate cancer recurrence”

 Ref: MedPulse Newsletter, Sept 3, 2013


Mediterranean diet may reverse genetic risk of stroke (4 September 2013 at 20:50)

Following a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) may not only reduce fasting blood glucose and cholesterol levels in patients who are genetically at increased risk for type 2 diabetes but may also lower their risk for stroke, a new Spanish study suggests.

The Mediterranean diet features olive oil, nuts, fish, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthier fats. The study results additionally “ emphasize the importance of studying entire dietary patterns rather than individual components," the authors concluded.

 Ref: Medscape Medical News, Aug 20, 2013


Cervical Cancer Vaccine may also Guard Against Oral Cancer (4 September 2013 at 20:56)

The vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) subtypes 16 and 18, marketed as Cervarix to prevent cervical cancer, has been shown for the first time to reduce oral HPV infections in women by more than 90%. This study provides "tantalizing preliminary evidence" that the HPV vaccine might prevent oral HPV infections that could lead to oropharyngeal cancer.

Ref: MedScape Medical News > Oncology, Jul 23, 2013


Childhood Cancer Survivors may have ‘Premature Aging’ (4 September 2013 at 20:55)

According to a new study published in June 12 issue of JAMA, childhood cancer survivors may have an “extraordinarily high” prevalence of chronic health conditions. The authors found that 98% of 1713 adult survivors of childhood cancer had at least 1 chronic health condition. In addition, by middle age, the problems tended to be quite serious. In fact, for people in the study cohort who were 45 years of age, the estimated prevalence of a serious/disabling or life-threatening condition was 80.5%.

Because the median age of the cohort was only 32 years, the frequency of these problems could "indicate a pattern of accelerated or premature aging” . The researchers concluded that their study underscores "the importance of ongoing health monitoring for adults who survive childhood cancer."

 Ref: MedPulse Newsletter, June 18, 2013


Breast cancer gene testing in the spotlight (30 May 2013 at 18:43)

The news last week of Angelina Jolie testing positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation and her subsequent preventive double mastectomy has certainly generated intense public interest.

It is likely that many women are wondering if they should have BRCA testing due to a family history of breast cancer. This is actually quite a complicated matter.

 For starters, the test has lots of implications and it is expensive. And there are different types of BRCA testing.

 Knowing which one to order is complex and depends on several factors including ancestry, cancer diagnosis or not, known BRCA mutation in the family or not. Also, many women overestimate their breast cancer risk because having a family history of breast cancer doesn’t always mean a higher personal risk.

 There are no standardized criteria for selecting candidates for BRCA testing but doctors suggest assessing for family history red flags, which generally point to first- and second-degree relatives with breast and/or ovarian cancers, especially at young ages.

The decision to have gene testing is ultimately best made in consultation with cancer genetic specialists operating family cancer clinics at major teaching hospitals. Finally, It is important for everyone to realize that a mutation in the BRCA gene only accounts for 5% to 10% of breast cancer, and so for the vast majority of women who get breast cancer, it is not due to a mutation in this gene.

 Ref: MedPulse Newsletter May 21,2013


Australians now longest-living (3 April 2013 at 21:27)

 Australia now has the longest life expectancy of any high-income country, having jettisoned ahead of Sweden, Italy and Greece to claim top spot.

 Researchers have ranked Australia first of 19 countries studied, with a life expectancy at birth of 81.5 years in 2010. This was up 4.6 years from 1990, when Australia was in eighth place and Sweden was in top spot.

 Ref: Lancet 2013; online


Drugs that combat ageing may be available within five years (20 March 2013 at 21:09)

Professor David Sinclair, an Australian researcher based at Harvard University, is the lead author of a paper published in the March 8 issue of Science. His landmark work has found that a single anti-ageing enzyme in the body, known as SIRT1, can be targeted with the potential to prevent age-related diseases and extend lifespans.

SIRT1, is switched on naturally by calorie restriction and exercise, but it can also be enhanced through activators. The most common naturally-occurring activator is resveratrol, which is found in small quantities in red wine, but synthetic activators (ie pharmaceuticals) with much stronger activity are already being developed.

 There have been promising results in some trials with implications for cancer, cardiovascular disease and cardiac failure, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, fatty liver disease, cataracts, osteoporosis, muscle wasting, sleep disorders and inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, arthritis and colitis (inflammatory bowel disease).

 While any drug developed would be strictly prescribed for certain conditions, Professor Sinclair suggests that one day, they could be taken orally as a preventative. This would be in much the same way as statin drugs are commonly prescribed to prevent, instead of simply treating, cardiovascular disease.

 Ref: NewsWire, Monday 18 March 2013, courtesy MedicalSearch


Mid-Life Optimism Linked to Healthier Cholesterol (20 March 2013 at 21:07)

U.S. researchers have found that middle-aged people with a sunny outlook on life have better levels of HDL cholesterol and other markers of heart health.

At least some of the connection between optimism and blood lipids in the new study appeared to result from the optimists' tendency to have a healthy body weight and a "prudent" diet.

 According to lead author Julia Boehm, a research fellow at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston: "It is one additional piece of evidence suggesting that our psychological health and physical health are intertwined, and that viewing the world optimistically may have some tangible benefits for our health.”.

 Ref: Reuters Health Information, March 5, 2013


Latest on Nutrition and Health (24 January 2013 at 23:24)

“Berry-Rich Diet Credited with One-Third Drop in Myocardial Infarction Risk”

Ref: Heartwire 2013

“Dietary Supplementation Offers Hope in Schizophrenia Prevention”

Ref: Medscape Medical News 2013


Merry Christmas 2012 from the Wellness Doctors! (18 December 2012 at 11:00)

 The Wellness Clinic will close for the festive season on Christmas Eve. We wish everyone a peaceful and joyous Christmas.

 Dr Devadas will be back to work on Monday 7 January and Dr Ison will return on Monday 21 January. We look forward to a new year of good health and happiness for all!


Opera House sails glow blue for Asbestos Awareness Week (28 November 2012 at 23:30)

Asbestos-related disease causes about 200 deaths a year in NSW and about 600 nationally. This week the chairman of the Asbestos Education Committee, Peter Munphy said it was vital to remember asbestos was "still all around" in homes, schools and workplaces. NSW councils will soon be given guidelines on how they can minimise asbestos risks for home renovators as part of a campaign to protect DIY enthusiasts. Simply stated, home renovators should leave asbestos to the experts.


Today’s top headlines in the field of Public Health and Prevention Medicine (13 November 2012 at 12:44)

“Omega -3 improves working memory in healthy young adults”

“Smoking steals ten years from women’s life spans”

“Night-shift work ups the risk of various cancers in men”

Ref: MedPulse Newsletter November 6, 2012 courtesy Medscape

 

(Updated: 24 September 2012 at 00:40 )

"Task Force Says No to Routine Screening for Ovarian Cancer”

“Pertussis Vaccine Protection Wanes 42% Every Year”

“Meta-Analysis Finds No Cardiovascular Benefit of Omega-3 Fatty Acids”

Ref: MedPulse Newsletter September 18, 2012 courtesy Medscape


R U OK ? (11 September 2012 at 11:40)

This national day of action, dedicated to reducing Australia’s high rate of suicide, is September 13. The Wellness Clinic doctors frequently assess people who are feeling down or stressed out. We can offer a psychological assessment, plus of course, a complete medical exam with blood tests, to exclude any underlying disease. Where necessary, we refer to highly trained clinical psychologists to achieve the best outcomes for our patients. So if you or your loved one is not feeling all that okay, please do consider booking an appointment at The Wellness Clinic without delay.


Coffee: The Original Wonder Drug? (2 August 2012 at 10:35)

The best part of waking up...is reducing your risk of neurodegeneration. And depression, and cancer, and cardiovascular disease... It's becoming increasingly clear that coffee is more than just a morning routine. The body of data suggesting that the world's most widely used stimulant is beneficial in a variety of mental and medical conditions is growing at a staggering rate. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that coffee consumption lowered all-cause mortality by over 10% at 13-year follow-up.

(Ref: Medscape Public Health, July 24, 2012)


Latest on Occupational Health: Job stress strains a woman's heart, but no one knows why (2 August 2012 at 10:32)

July 23, 2012 (Cambridge, Massachusetts) — A new study has found that women under a lot of stress at work were almost 40% more likely to have a cardiovascular event over a 10-year period than their counterparts who reported low job strain.

(Ref: Heartwire 2012)


Diabetes: Is It Now a Surgical Disease? (2 August 2012 at 10:30)

Close to being proven is that bariatric surgery is more effective than medical therapy for Type 2 Diabetes in obese patients.

(Ref: Medscape Cardiology, July 25, 2012)


Today’s top headlines in the field of Public Health and Prevention Medicine (10 July 2012 at 22:30)

“Psychological distress increases risk of death from cerebrovascular disease”

“Physical activity in adolescence staves off depression in adulthood”

“Cigarette smoking increases cognitive decline in middle-aged men”

Ref: Medscape Education Public Health newsletter July 9, 2012


Today’s top headlines in the field of Public Health and Prevention Medicine (20 June 2012 at 16:15)

 “Breakfast decreases Type 2 Diabetes risk”

 “Lack of sleep ups stroke risk in low-risk adults”

 Ref: MedPulse newsletter June 19, 2012 courtesy Medscape


Know your numbers and save your life! (29 May 2012 at 10:10)

This month of May has seen a mass media campaign educating about the dangers of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the single biggest modifiable risk factor for stroke – which happens to one Australian every 10 minutes – but many people do not know their numbers. It is important for all adults to have their blood pressure checked from time to time. This is particularly so if you are over forty years old, or if you are overweight, or if hypertension runs in your family. The Wellness Clinic offers free BP checks to interested adults. When did you last get your blood pressure checked? It’s quick and easy to do. Don’t let your first sign of high blood pressure be a stroke!


Dr Sharada Devadas is taking leave this month (9 May 2012 at 21:40)

Our clinic’s General Practitioner, Dr Devadas, will be away for 2 weeks commencing Monday 21 May, 2012. Dr Devadas will be back to work on Monday 4 June, 2012. We wish her a pleasant vacation!


Easter time means flu shot time! (10 April 2012 at 21:51)

The Wellness Doctors wish all our patients much joy this Easter season! As the cooler weather of Autumn approaches, it is time to consider having a flu shot to protect against Influenza. The Wellness Clinic has vaccine in stock for the same price as last year, which is just $12.95. Consultation fee for vaccination is BULK BILLED.


Not feeling like you?  Coeliac Awareness Week is March 13 – 20 (15 March 2012 at 22:46)

Approximately 160,000 Australians have coeliac disease but don't yet know it. Coeliac disease affects approximately 1 in 100 Australians, and 75 per cent currently remain undiagnosed. Unexplained and extreme fatigue, bloating or other gut symptoms, headaches, joint pains and a general lack of energy are all common symptoms of coeliac disease. Do you suffer from these symptoms? With Coeliac Awareness Week 2012, there's never been a better time to visit your GP and ask the question - is gluten slowing me down?


Be eye wise during World Glaucoma Week (March 11 – 17) (15 March 2012 at 22:46)

In Australia glaucoma is a major cause of sight loss in adults over the age of 40. There are generally no warning signs so glaucoma is often referred to as the ‘sneak thief of sight’. Australians are encouraged to undertake an eye check, as early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma are paramount in saving vision. You can get an eye check, without a referral, from your local community Optometrist.


Attention all middle-aged men! (29 January 2012 at 15:59)

Some good news for you! Men who get fit in middle age substantially reduce their risk of death over the next decade, regardless of whether they lose weight, research suggests. The US study, published in Circulation 2011, included over 14,000 men with an average age of 44. The greatest benefits identified in the study were seen in those men who improved their fitness, having been unfit. Overall this group had a 40% lower risk of all-cause mortality (ie death), over the next eleven years, compared with men whose fitness declined. So gentleman, if you could do with some strategies to improve your fitness, The Wellness Clinic is ready and waiting for your appointment.


New Year, New You (16 January 2012 at 18:46)

If your New Year's resolution is to get healthier in twenty-twelve, then a visit to The Wellness Clinic is an excellent way to get started. In just three visits over three weeks, we can get you on your way to achieving your goals!

Visit 1 is to have a complete health check including full physical and blood test.

Visit 2 is to review your test results.

Visit 3 is to receive your personalised Health Management Plan. All visits are covered by Medicare so that your total out-of-pocket cost, for all three visits, is just $89.05!

You won't find better value than that! When making your first appointment, please mention to the Receptionist you'd like to book for "Dr Ison's New Year Special"!


The Wellness Clinic and the festive season 2011/12 (9 December 2011 at 11:24)

The Children's Doctor will be closed for the festive season from Dec 25 to Jan 8, as will The Wellness Clinic. Dr Ison will be on leave from Dec 24 until Jan 23. Dr Devadas will be on leave from Dec 17 until Jan 10. Drs Ison and Devadas will cover for each other during the respective leave periods. Should you have any need, in sickness and in health, over the festive season, the reception staff will be pleased to assist you with a doctor's appointment.


More appointments now available (24 November 2011 at 16:00)

Dr Sharada Devadas has increased her hours at The Wellness Clinic. She is now available for adult GP consultations on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.


Movember is changing the face of men's health (31 October 2011 at 18:41)

During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men's faces in Australia and around the world. The aim of which is to raise vital funds and awareness for men's health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men. In the spirit of prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men's health, perhaps the Mo Sistas might like to encourage their Mo Bros to come to The Wellness Clinic for a check-up?


Pink Ribbon Day is 24 October (24 October 2011 at 19:43)

Cancer Council's Pink Ribbon Day aims to help raise awareness about breast cancer, as well as raise funds for research, early prevention and patient support programs. This year alone, 12 700 Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. All women should be familiar with breast self examination. Screening mammograms are performed from age 50 yrs (earlier for higher risk women). The Wellness Clinic can assist you with breast checks and mammography referrals.


Mental Health Week was 9 - 15 October (16 October 2011 at 20:07)

For more information about raising awareness and caring for your mental health, go to www.beyondblue.org.au


National Stroke Week is 12-18 September (16 September 2011 at 16:30)

1 in 6 people will have a stroke. Behind this statistic are real people and real lives. Strokes can happen to anyone so it is important you know your stroke risk. Go to strokefoundation.com.au to learn the six steps you can take towards stroke prevention. Come for a check-up if you have any concerns.


R U OK Day is Thursday September 15 (10 September 2011 at 16:46)

Now in its third year, this is a national day calling us to action. Please consider reaching out to someone whom you know who might be feeling down or depressed or stressed out. Perhaps even yourself? At The Wellness Clinic, good mental health is considered an important part of wellbeing and we can help. You might consider organising an appointment for a 'Stress Management' consultation and we'll take care of things for you from there.


Would any of these consultations be of value to you or your partner? (30 August 2011 at 21:20)

# A full physical (head to toe) examination?

# Female screening checks such as pap smear & breast examination?

# Male screening checks such as testes and prostate examination?

# Gender neutral screening tests such as for diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, bowel cancer, osteoporosis?

# Family history interpretation and risk management assessment?

# Lifestyle assessment and prescription?

# Weight management?

# Stress management?

# Family planning?

# Pregnancy and postnatal care?

# Travel?

# Adult immunisation boosters?

or perhaps

# a standard GP consultation?

Let us know how we can assist you, when calling for an appointment!


Brain Injury Awareness Week is August 15 - 21 (18 August 2011 at 23:27)

There are over half a million Australians living with an acquired brain injury - damage which occurs to the brain after birth. As individuals, families and communities, we should be mindful of the preventable causes of acquired brain injury such as accidents, especially road accidents and drugs including alcohol. We need to teach our children to consider how reckless behaviours and risk taking such as speeding, or drink - driving, or diving into shallow water, could forever change their life or someone elses.


Preventive health makes front cover of this month's Medical Journal of Australia (17 August 2011 at 22:47)

This enlightening article explores what patients think about preventive health. Research participants (from metropolitan Melbourne) considered preventive care as legitimate in general practice when it was associated with concrete action or a test, but rated their general practitioners as poor at delivering prevention. Some barriers to participants seeking preventive care through their GPs included lack of knowledge about what preventive care was relevant to them, consultations focused exclusively on acute-care concerns and time pressures. (Ref: MJA. Volume 195 Number 4. 15 August 2011) This is why The Wellness Clinic exists. We are seeking to overcome these barriers and deliver on a poorly-serviced, yet vital sector of primary care medicine.


We are experiencing intermittent problems with the website dowloads (17 August 2011 at 10:34)

Should you have difficulty trying to open a download, right click on the file you want to open. Select "save target as" and download the file to your desktop. Then open the file from your desktop by right clicking on the file and choosing the appropriate programme (e.g. Adobe Reader for a .pdf file, Word for a .docx file). Alternatively, should you require any information about our services and fees, or anything else, please contact the office by telephone or email. We apologise for any inconvenience.


August is National Dental Health Month (3 August 2011 at 12:21)

Good health includes caring for your teeth and gums. Did you know dental decay and gingivitis have been linked to cardiovascular disease? Did you know many prescription medications have dry mouth as a side effect which can cause orodental complications? Seeing your Dentist once or twice a year for a clean and check-up is recommended. How long has it been since you last visited the Dentist?


Diabetes awareness campaign (25 July 2011 at 13:50)

National Diabetes Week was 10-16 July. Are YOU at risk of Type 2 Diabetes? In Australia nearly two thirds of men and half of all women are overweight or obese. This is a key factor in the alarming rise of Type 2 Diabetes. Yet up to 60 percent of diabetes cases could be prevented, or at least delayed, by people maintaining a healthy weight. The main keys to long-term weight loss and reducing your waist measurement are healthy eating and regular physical activity. Type 2 Diabetes often runs in families. If you think you might be at risk you can visit The Wellness Clinic for an assessment and personalised advice.


Alzheimer's Disease (25 July 2011 at 13:39)

Just back from the Alzheimer's Association 2011 International Conference held this year in Paris. Unfortunately, still no breakthroughs in finding a cure for this ever more prevalent and debilitating disease. Also sadly no new tips for for Alzheimer's prevention. We are to eat a nutrient rich diet and exercise regularly. Sudoko puzzles are an optional extra! We are however closer to understanding the biomolecular basis of the disease, so that does bring hope for future treatment options!


Dr Oz is in town! (9 July 2011 at 01:26)

Dr Oz is an internationally famous American talk show host who, strangely enough, happens also to be an eminent practising Cardiothoracic Surgeon! This doctor has an obvious talent for bringing the message of Wellness to thousands of people via television each weekday at 2pm. The show is dynamic and informative and covers many relevant current health issues. If you're at home during the day you may want to check out the show. Dr Oz's zest for living life to one's fullest health potential may well be infectious!


Our GP Service starts tomorrow July 8 (7 July 2011 at 14:56)

Dr Sharada Devadas will be working at The Wellness Clinic from tomorrow as the practice's visiting GP for adults. You may wish to consult her about any symptoms troubling you, or about any sickness. Dr Devadas also works in Carlingford. Conveniently co-located at The Children's Doctor, the Grown-Ups can now have their own GP, just up the stairs on Level 1. Consultations by appointment, Tel. 9680 2708.


National Men's Health Week... (28 June 2011 at 20:13)

...has come and gone this month of June. This is an important ongoing campaign because men's health issues tend to fly under the radar. It is very pleasing to report that we have had lots of men visit The Wellness Clinic since we opened. Many of them have commented that they have never had such a thorough health assessment. Well done ladies for sending your men to The Wellness Clinic for their complete health check-up!


Dr Sharada Devadas is joining the Team! (24 June 2011 at 13:10)

The Wellness Clinic is proving to be so popular that we are ready to grow the Clinic. We are very pleased to announce that Dr Sharada Devadas, who is a well-known local GP, will be starting her general practice service for adults next month (July 2011). This means we will have more appointments on more days for all your medical needs, in sickness and in health! Dr Devadas will be offering GP consultations by appointment. She can help you with symptoms or sickness and she can assist you if you require a routine GP service. Dr Ison will continue in her specialty of Wellness Medicine.


June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month (24 June 2011 at 12:43)

Bowel cancer kills more Australians each year than breast or prostate cancer. The Wellness Clinic offers bowel cancer screening tests for all adults from age 50 years or at a younger age if you have a family history of bowel cancer.


General Practice coming soon to The Wellness Clinic! (22 June 2011 at 17:55)

We've heard your request for an adult GP service and we plan to deliver! Soon we will have a GP in The Wellness Clinic to attend to all your general practice concerns. So next time you're sick, we hope we can be of service, to the whole family, conveniently located at The Children's Doctor Practice.


What is Wellness Medicine, actually? (17 June 2011 at 18:05)

Wellness Medicine is the science and art of optimising individuals' health and sense of well-being. Fundamental precepts include health promotion by personalised patient education and a strong emphasis on preventive care. The discipline is underpinned by an holistic approach to total health management. Wellness Medicine is practised by a medical doctor and is a subspecialty of general practice.


The Wellness Clinic is going fully sick! (16 June 2011 at 18:20)

Well, okay, maybe not FULLY sick! More details coming soon!


World No Tobacco Day is May 31 (28 May 2011 at 20:32)

Did you know that tobacco use is the second cause of death globally (after hypertension) and is currently responsible for killing one in ten adults worldwide? If you need help to kick the habit, a visit to The Wellness Clinic may be a good place to start.


Kidney Health Week May 22 - May 28 (26 May 2011 at 14:31)

CKD (chronic kidney disease) can be a silent condition and often goes undetected until it is too late. Come to The Wellness Clinic for a complete health check which includes having your kidney function checked.


Mind Body Spirit Festival on this weekend in Sydney (18 May 2011 at 11:51)

Thursday 19 May to Sunday 22 May 2011 at the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre from 10am to 7pm daily. Check out mbsfestival.com.au for details.


Flu season fast approaching (17 May 2011 at 20:56)

The winter chill has arrived and it's time for your flu shot! The Wellness Clinic stocks the vaccine and can get this sorted for you at just one visit and all for only $12.95.


The Wellness Clinic is now running two days a week (17 May 2011 at 20:40)

We can now offer morning and afternoon appointments. Please telephone for an appointment on (02) 9680 2708.

 

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