There is a range of healthcare professionals who may be involved in helping you manage your osteoarthritis. This sheet outlines what each member of your healthcare team does and how to find them. It also includes tips on getting the most from a visit to your health professional.
General practitioner (GP or local doctor)
Your GP is usually your main provider of health care.
He or she should be your first point of contact for any concerns you have about your arthritis or other health issues. Your GP can help you coordinate your overall health care, including making referrals to specialists if needed. Your GP may also have a practice nurse. A practice nurse can provide information and coordinate your care with the other members of your healthcare team.
Medical specialists
Your GP can refer you to an appropriate specialist. Your GP may recommend a specialist for you, or you may wish to choose your own. Most specialists see patients either at public hospitals or in private clinics. They may charge a fee for your appointment if working outside the public hospital system. This fee may be partly or mostly reimbursed through Medicare. Check the likely costs when making an appointment. If cost is a problem, discuss this with your GP.
Rheumatologist: A rheumatologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosis and medical treatment of joint, muscle and bone disorders. You may be referred to a rheumatologist if the cause of your symptoms is unclear or if you have a type of arthritis that needs specialist care. For more information, including how to find a rheumatologist, contact the Australian Rheumatology Association on (02) 9256 5458 or visit www.rheumatology.org.au
Orthopaedic surgeon: An orthopaedic surgeon specialises in diagnosis and surgical treatment of bone, muscle and joint disorders. The surgeon will discuss your need for surgery and other management options with you. For more information about orthopaedic surgeons and how to find one contact the Australian Orthopaedic Association on (02) 9233 3018 or visit www.aoa.org.au
Sports Medicine Physician: A sports medicine physician is a specialized doctor who focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries related to physical activity and sports. If you experience sports-related injuries or require expert guidance on optimising athletic performance, you may be referred to a sports medicine physician. These specialists are well-versed in the unique demands placed on the musculoskeletal system during physical activity and can provide tailored advice and interventions to promote healing and enhance performance. Additionally, a sports medicine physician may play a crucial role in managing conditions such as arthritis that can impact an individual's ability to participate in sports. To locate a sports medicine physician- https://www.acsep.org.au/.
Rehabilitation Physician: A rehabilitation physician, specialises in the comprehensive management of disabilities resulting from injury or chronic illness. These physicians focus on maximising function and quality of life through non-surgical interventions, physical therapy, and other rehabilitation techniques. If you require rehabilitation after an injury or are dealing with a chronic condition affecting your mobility, a rehabilitation physician can assess your needs and develop a personalised treatment plan. This includes conditions such as arthritis, where a rehabilitation physician can provide strategies to manage pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall well-being. For assistance in finding a rehabilitation physician https://www.acsep.org.au/
Allied health professionals
The following health professionals may also help you manage your arthritis:
Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They provide advice about healthy eating, weight loss and diets for medical conditions, such as diabetes. To find a dietitian contact the Dietitians Association of Australia on (02) 6282 9555 or use the ‘find a dietitian’ service at www.daa.asn.au
Occupational therapists (OT) will provide education about your osteoarthritis and can help you adapt your life to your condition or illness. They can show you ways to make activities of daily living, such as cooking and showering, easier and provide advice on useful aids or equipment. To find an OT, see Occupational Therapy Australia’s website, www.ausot.com.au or call 1300 682 878
Pharmacists are experts in medicines (both prescription and non-prescription medicines). A pharmacist can help you to understand your medicines and how to use them safely and correctly.
Physiotherapists will provide education about your osteoarthritis and can advise you on exercise, posture and ways to relieve pain. They may also use treatments to keep your joints and muscles flexible. To find a physiotherapist see the Australian Physiotherapy Association website www.physiotherapy.asn.au or call 1300 306 622
Podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the feet. They can provide education about your osteoarthritis and help you with footwear, nail care and orthoses (shoe inserts) if you have arthritis in your feet, legs or lower spine. To find a podiatrist see the Australasian Podiatry Council website www.apodc.com.au or call (03) 94163111
Psychologists can teach you ways to cope with any difficult emotions you feel as a result of your arthritis. They can also teach you techniques to assist with managing pain. To find a psychologist, contact the Australian Psychological Society on 1800 333 497 or visit www.psychology.org.au
Osteopaths focus on improving joint function and reducing pain through manual therapy, including gentle joint manipulation and soft tissue techniques. Osteopaths also prescribe tailored exercise programs, offer guidance on posture, and provide lifestyle recommendations. To find an osteopath, see the Osteopathy Australia website https://osteopathy.org.au/find-an-osteo
Rheumatology Nurses are nurses with a specialist knowledge in arthritis. They can provide you with education, support and advice on your diagnosis and on-going management of your disease. For more information, please ask your rheumatologist.
Where can I see allied health professionals and how much will it cost?
If your GP refers you to an allied health professional as part of a care plan, you may be able to have five sessions per year funded by Medicare. Ask your GP for more information.
- The public system: Most allied health professionals are available in the public health system (such as at a community health centre or public hospital). There is often a waiting list, or need to travel, and you will usually need a referral from your GP. Their services are usually free or low cost.
- The private system: You can consult any of these allied health professionals at private clinics without a referral from your GP. The cost of a private consultation varies with the type of health professional These costs may be covered in part by private health insurance.
How to be prepared for your visit to a health professional
To get the most out of a visit to your doctor or other health professional it is important to be prepared. Here are some tips:
- Think about, and write down, the questions you want to ask before your visit.
- If you have x-ray and test results related to your condition, take them along to the consultation.
- Consider taking a family member or friend with you as a second set of ears.
- Ask your doctor or health professional to explain any information that you did not understand.
- Feel free to ask questions, especially about the benefits, side effects and costs of treatments.
- Tell your doctor or health professional if you need time to think or to discuss something with family members.
- Write down any important information or instructions that you are given.
- Ask your doctor or health professional where you can learn more about your condition or treatment. Your healthcare team can give you more advice and information about whether any of these or other treatments might be useful for you.
Other Resources
State/Territory Arthritis Offices
Your local Arthritis Office can provide further information to assist you and will have a range of education and support activities. Click here to find your local office.
Podcasts:
https://shows.acast.com/joint-action/episodes/health-system-redesign-for-osteoarthritis
Physiotherapy
https://shows.acast.com/joint-action/episodes/exercising-with-osteoarthritis
Dietitian
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/implementing-dietary-change/id1508969582?i=1000490277372
Pharmacist
https://shows.acast.com/joint-action/episodes/can-my-pharmacist-help
Learn more
This website has been independently developed by Arthritis Australia for Australian users. We thank our sponsors for their support for an unrestricted, educational grant to fund its creation.
