RFDS and arthritis
RFDS health professionals who provide regular clinic services are involved in the identification, treatment and management of arthritis. Most of the arthritis conditions can be managed by a general practitioner who provides first line treatment and advice on self-management.
RFDS focuses its programs across the whole age range. Arthritis is not solely confined to aged population however there are more presentations in this age group. RFDS does not specialise in the provision of aged care services. We recognise the sometimes extensive needs of the aged and it is not always possible to obtain the required services in more remote areas. Again RFDS act to refer people to other services when required.
RFDS runs some specific health promotion programs targeting special groups e.g. the Rural Women’s General Practice Service provides gender choice of practitioner for people living in rural and remote areas – a description of the program’s involvement with arthritis is given below.
Little is known about the incidence of arthritis specifically in the rural and remote context to assist in understanding the issues for arthritis sufferers. Further research is required in this area.
The RFDS doctor will refer to hospital or specialist services when surgery is required or other specialist procedures.
Other members of the multidisciplinary health team – nurses and allied health professionals can become involved in managing pain and maximising physical functioning.
Arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions are a common presentation in the general practice setting. Referrals will be made by the RFDS doctor to more specialist services if required. This will usually be in a major regional centre and will involve the patient travelling to access these services.
More specific health promotion programs are directed to lifestyle issues which relate to the management of these conditions. A key area is maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The RFDS role in the management of arthritis can be summarised as follows:
- promoting healthy behaviour and focusing on reducing the impact of arthritis
- diagnosis and referral to specialists
- follow up of arthritis patients after tests and post operatively
- liaison with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
- arranging travel and accommodation for patients to stay when receiving treatment in regional/ metropolitan centres
- managing patient’s pain
- managing any co-morbid presentations
- supporting family members and carers
