For the client or patient

Will the rehabilitation service or multidisciplinary program get rid of my pain?

The vast majority of patients will find a reduction in their pain intensity and duration.  The emphasis of the program is to assist you to more effectively manage your pain and to increase your level of functioning in home, work and recreational / social tasks. 

 

Could the rehabilitation service or multidisciplinary program increase my pain?

Some patients find that their pain intensity can increase over the first few days of program as they get acclimatised to the physical demands required.  Our therapists will design your program individually to minimise the incidence of this increase in pain.  It may be beneficial to speak to your doctor about modifying your medication levels in the shorter term when you start.  

 

Will my medication be affected?

In most cases no - although it can.  You will need to discuss this closely with your treating doctor. 

 

Why do I have to see a psychologist during the multidisciplinary program?

Pain is a very individualised sensory and emotional experience.  It is very important for therapy to integrate both physical and non physical factors.  Our clinical psychologist is an integral member of our multidisciplinary team.  Some education and counseling issues addressed by our psychologist include relaxation, anger, anxiety and depression management, assertiveness training and relevant pain education.  There are 4 group sessions and between 1 and 3 individualised sessions provided by our psychologist during program.    

How will I know that I am getting better?

We will establish the most appropriate outcome measures at the commencement of your rehabilitation program.  Every patient is quite different and has their own specific goals.  Typical outcome measures include improvements with pain intensity, participation at home, work and recreation, level of control and coping, quality and range of movement, posture, strength, medication levels and many more. 

 

What will you be telling my insurer (i.e. CTP insurer, workers’ compensation insurer)?

We will be providing a detailed report of your participation at the end of rehabilitation to your treating doctor and relevant insurer.  We will be providing objective comments on what you participated in during the program and what differences or changes were achieved.  We will respect your privacy and only report on matters directly concerning your rehabilitation and claim. 

 

Do I receive a copy of any reports?

The report remains the property of the payer and we cannot provide you with a copy if you are not the payer.  We would be happy to show and discuss the report with you.  You can obtain a copy from the insurer through FOI if there is an insurer involved.  You may also obtain a copy from your treating doctor. 

 

Who pays for my wages and travel during rehabilitation?

You will need to discuss this with your insurer or employer. 

Can I pay for the multidisciplinary program privately?

Yes you can.  Private health funds do not currently endorse our program as we are not a hospital setting. 

 

Do I receive any hands on physiotherapy or massage?

No.  Our rehabilitation approach is to assist patients to develop active and self reliant injury management strategies.

 

Are there any other methods for funding my rehabilitation or pain program?

Many patients are funded by workers' compensation insurers, compulsory third party insurers, employers, superannuation and income protection insurance companies.  Some patients choose to pay for the full program costs.  Patients who have private health insurance can obtain a partial refund from their insurer.  The refund and gap amount will vary depending on the insurer and policy.

What are my legal obligations and entitlements?

This can differ depending on the jurisdiction and insurance scheme.  We would be happy to assist and point you in the right direction if requested.  

What are my obligations during rehabilitation?

We will be seeking your commitment, the support of your treating doctor and relevant insurer (if applicable) prior to commencing rehabilitation.  We ask that you participate as actively in your rehabilitation as far as is reasonably possible to reach your maximum recovery and health gains. 

 

What happens after the 2 week intensive program?

We will conduct a collaborative case conference with you and the rest of the team on the last day of the program.  We will discuss and summarise the key areas of your improvement and where you may need further assistance.  If applicable, we may make recommendations for further rehabilitation assistance, to you, your doctor and insurer for approval.  This may involve assistance with vocational rehabilitation, counselling, exercises or other active measures, to assist you to reach your recovery goals.

 

I live out of Brisbane.  What about accommodation?

There are many motels within the Stones Corner area where we are located.  Most of our patients choose to stay at the Greenslopes Motor Inn (please see: www.gsmi.com.au) which is a 10 minute walk from our clinic. The tariff is between $95 and $105 per night with meals extra.