Bookings are essential. Click HERE to book.

AM I ELIGIBILE? 

All patients aged 5+ are now eligible to have the vaccine.

CAN I HAVE MY FLU VACCINE AT THE SAME TIME?

Yes, the COVID and Flu vaccine can now be co-administered.

WHEN SHOULD I HAVE MY 2nd COVID VACCINE?

The recommended interval between the first and second COVID dose is 3 weeks for adults and 8 weeks for children.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

There is no fee, the vaccine is government funded.

WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE MEDICARE? 

People who are not eligible for Medicare, for example a temporary resident, will need to attend a state- or territory-run vaccination clinic to get their COVID-19 vaccines.

HOW TO GET PROOF OF YOUR COVID VACCINE:

Once you’ve had a COVID-19 vaccine, we will record it on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR). You can get proof of your COVID-19 vaccination status with an immunisation history statement.

National Coronavirus Helpline

1800 020 080

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Credit cancercouncilaust

We usually start seeing these messages around the beginning of summer, however, in most parts of Australia it’s important to be SunSmart all year round.

Being SunSmart 

Even with a cloud covered sky, you’re not safe from sun damage. The risks of premature ageing and danger to our health are not from the heat of the sun; it’s the unseen and unfelt UV radiation.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the UV index in many parts of Australia is still high, even in the Southern Hemisphere’s winter. Anything above a three on the index indicates sun protection is needed, as this article from ABC Science, explains.

Even if your risk of skin cancer is in the low range, research shows that UV exposure is the reason behind 80% of skin’s ageing appearance. So, slop on that 30+ year round to reduce the wrinkles later in life, and protect the largest organ of the body.

Making a mole check appointment before summer

There are a few reasons why booking a mole check appointment earlier in the year is a far better idea than waiting for summer to roll around.

Firstly, skin cancer doesn’t happen overnight. It can take years to become detectable, or the changes can happen over a matter of weeks. During the cooler months, we’re covered up and are less likely to notice subtle changes to a spot.

Add to this, the fact that the reduced sun exposure to skin lesions and moles can allow for better dermoscopy viewing. Even minimal UV exposure can transform a mole slightly and make it appear suspect.

Lastly, the earlier a potential skin cancer is detected, the higher the chance of it being treated successfully, and the less chance of possible metastasis (meaning the cancer moving into another organ).

Who should get a skin cancer check?

Cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, and skin tone. However, some demographics have a higher rate of skin cancer than the general population. Increased risk factors for skin cancer include:

• Pale skin
• Age
• History of severe sunburn
• History of skin cancer
• Family history of melanoma
• Numerous moles
• Multiple atypical moles

What does skin cancer look like?

Skin cancers may be mistaken for a pimple, or often start as benign-looking freckles/moles which transform over time. It’s another reason regular skin checks are so important, as changes can be noted from previous sessions.

It’s not just the face and neck that are at risk (although studies show even those applying sunscreen to are not protecting their faces correctly). Skin cancers can also appear on skin that is not usually exposed to the sun – even on the bottom of feet!

The Cancer Council recommends keeping an eye out for new spots, and potentially dangerous lesions using the ABCDE rule:

A – asymmetry, spots that are asymmetrical, not round

B – border, spots with uneven borders

C – colour, spots with an unusual or uneven colour

D – diameter, spots that are larger than 6mm

E – evolving, spots that change shape or colour

If you’re booking your next mole check, Perth’s Rokeby GP uses the highly effective DermEngine software. A mole check is carried out using a dermatoscope – a powerful magnifier and non-reflective light source that accurately photographs and aids identification of suspicious skin lesions. The mole clinic doctors at Rokeby GP have a special interest in and a high level of expertise in diagnosis and management of skin cancer. We recommend all patients receive regular skin checks from the age of 18 years.

To find out more about the Rokeby GP mole clinic service go to this page on our website. 

Don’t put off your skin check any longer. Booking a mole check appointment online is easy.

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Telephone appointments are readily available. Book via reception or online.

Our fees for phone consults are time based and are equivalent to our face to face consultation.

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Safety for both you and our staff is our number one priority

We are going to extraordinary lengths with sanitisation of the practice and to maintain social distancing.

We are also requiring patients with respiratory symptoms to make telephone or video appointments.

Face to Face appointments

Our doctors would love to see you to in person during this period.

Our waiting times will be kept to a minimum. With the increased in phone consultations the waiting room is very quiet. Once again maximising your safety during a visit.

Phone/Video appointments (Telehealth)

Telephone and video appointments are readily available. Book via reception or online.

To aid those who are having financial difficulty we have discounted our fee. The maximum gap is $31.80 for all phone appointments.

Some patients also qualify to be bulk billed for this service. The criteria for this are on our website.

Care Plans

If you have a chronic (i.e. long term) illness you may receive a call from our nurses to check on your health. This service is bulk billed and there is no fee for you.

Respiratory Symptoms

If you are suffering respiratory symptoms during this pandemic it is important that you consult your doctor. This is done via telephone/video. Most respiratory illness can be managed this way.

If during the telephone consultation the doctor feels they need to see you physically this can be arranged in an isolated part of the practice to protect other patients and our staff.

Immunisations

For your safety are trying, as much as possible, to do immunisations (both child and adult) outside consulting hours and to get you in and out of the practice efficiently.

Mole Clinic

Dr Patrick Garratt is still doing whole body skin checks and excisions.

Free parking 

Parking in the City of Subiaco owned car stations will be free until July. City rangers will not issue tickets to drivers who overstay time-restricted parking. For more info click here.

The post April Newsletter appeared first on Rokeby GP.

Common influenza symptoms:

• High fever
• Body aches
• Significant lethargy
• Often unable to work
• Bed-bound
• Sore throat

Common cold symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Cough
• Mild fever
• Sore throat
• Mild lethargy
• Headache
• Cough
• Vomiting

How to avoid getting the flu?

We encourage patients to have a flu vaccination every year in Autumn to protect you during the peak flu season over winter. Flu vaccinations are considered the most effective way of preventing contraction and transmission of the flu.

We also offer corporate flu vaccinations at your workplace to prevent the transmission of influenza among colleagues.  Workplace flu vaccinations have been seen to decrease absenteeism, limiting employee disruption and maintaining work capacity.

Rapid flu test

We are the first GP practice in WA to offer onsite rapid molecular flu testing.  How does it work? Unlike other flu tests that are either slow or inaccurate – taking more than three days for results – our Rapid Molecular Influenza Test (RMIT), sometimes referred to as Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT), is a clinically proven test applied at our practice, in your consultation, with near 100% accuracy and within 15 minutes of testing, making it the fastest accurate flu test on the market.

Is there a treatment for the flu?

Antiviral medication can lead to a faster recovery from influenza – if taken in the first two days of illness. Therefore it is highly recommended that if you’re experiencing the onset of flu-like symptoms, to book a Rapid Molecular Influenza Test today to hasten an early and quick recovery.

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Mental health issues are among the most common health problems in higher-income countries. According to Beyond Blue, one in six Australians is currently experiencing depression or anxiety or both. You may be one of them, and you’re not alone.

There is no shame or guilt to be felt about not feeling quite right. It’s a reality that one in four Australians will experience an anxiety condition at some stage in their life. One in seven will face a depression experience. While these figures point to an epidemic, it also means that more money is being spent on research and treatment of these issues.

Rokeby GP’s doctors are advocates for the awareness and treatment of mental health disorders, and can assist with creating a mental health plan – which can financially subsidise up to 6 sessions with a psychologist. Patients with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan can claim a Medicare rebate of approximately $120 per psychotherapy session.

Studies show that maintaining balanced mental health is not merely a matter of the mind. We’re complex beings; many lifestyle factors such as your environment, relationships, diet, and physical activity all have an impact on our body’s systems and mental well being. Genetics also play a part, but we believe that all mental health issues are manageable with time, the right plan and the right medical help.

Helpful mental wellbeing resources.

There are now hundreds of apps available to help with mental wellbeing, and the below is just a selection you may want to explore further. Apps and online resources cannot and should not be used in place of medical advice, though they may be a beneficial support tool alongside the advice of your doctor.

Headspace App

The one for parents
Cute, joyous animations make the content accessible even to younger children. While it’s creator Andy Puddicombe is a Buddhist monk, he’s created a secular, science-backed mindfulness app. (Free, with in-app purchases)

Calm App

The one for variety
Daily meditations, audio courses on creativity and sleep stories with celebrities such as Stephen Fry and Matthew McConaughey. The latest version is compatible with Apple Watch, to offer breathing and walking exercises. (Free, with in-app purchases)

10% Happier

The one for skeptics
Apple’s Best of 2018 Award-Winner, this app was designed for meditation and mindfulness skeptics. Created by ex-news anchor Dan Harris, after he had a panic attack on live TV, the app and related podcast offer practical strategies for those who’ve struggled with meditation before. (Free, with in-app purchases)

Recommended websites.

Depression and bipolar disorder: blackdoginstitute.org.au

Anxiety disorders: crufad.org

Perinatal and general mental health: beyondblue.org.au

General psychiatric problems: psychcentral.org

Regarding Self Harm

Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of self harm, seek professional counselling immediately such as calling Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 (24 hours). According to the World Health Organisation, one person dies every 40 seconds from suicide. Each death is a tragedy for the person and those they leave behind.

This October is World Mental Health Month. Rokeby GP encourages all patients to regularly check in with their own mental health and that of their loved ones.

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Do I need anti Malaria tablets for India?

Whilst being diverse and exotic, India is often known for poor hygiene practices in many regions. Food and water-borne sickness and infection are common, as well as Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria. Malaria is a relatively high risk all year round and can have a variety of symptoms, but most commonly they can present similarly to the initial stages of a flu. Despite seeming mild or manageable initially, these symptoms can progress to become life-threatening. In addition, if your trip is lengthy and you are venturing to rural areas, the risk of malaria increases substantially. Preventative medication is available – such as anti-malaria tablets – and protective clothing will help reduce your chances of being bitten, but it’s very important to discuss and receive malaria advice about the appropriate precautions with a specialist travel GP.

Are travel vaccinations and injections required for India?

The risks related to food and water consumption can be inconvenient but Typhoid and Hepatitis vaccinations in combination with general vigilance – avoiding drinking water from a tap, sticking to vegetarian meals and be aware of where your consumables are coming from – will reduce your chances of falling ill. Indulging in a foreign country’s delicacies or national dishes are all a part of the experience and India is renowned for the incredible fragrance and flavours of their culinary delights, but if you know you’re particularly prone to an upset stomach or fear food-poisoning, it’s best to air on the side of caution. The last thing you want to come in the way of you and the Taj Mahal is severe tummy ache or worse.

Knowing the implications or risks involved with travelling to India is not about instilling fear and taking the adventure or fun out of exploring this vastly diverse and unique country. Understanding how you can protect your health from external factors, including travel injections that may be available, will make you a smarter traveller and will only enhance your foreign cultural experience.

Maintaining your childhood immunisations and ensuring your flu shots are up to date, are paramount for maintaining your health on a daily basis, however, these alone will not protect you entirely when travelling overseas. Discussing the required travel vaccinations for India or other destinations – for a variety of known diseases and infections throughout the country – with your travel specialist GP will assist you in enjoying your trip to the fullest. Rokeby GP can make sure you’re equipped with the adequate information and travel vaccinations necessary for your destination.

Book a consultation to find out more or schedule your travel immunisation for India today.

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It hasn’t always been at the top of the list of countries to tour but in recent times, the masses have flocked to discover the beauty of Sri Lanka. Located between India and Southeast Asia, the island is home to numerous world heritage sites and an extensive historical culture that must be experienced firsthand.

An experience you do not want to have firsthand, however, is contraction of diseases or infections. Whilst the landscape holds incomprehensible beauty and the produce makes for a tantalising culinary experience, Sri Lanka has its risks. It’s important to be aware of them and take necessary precautions, such as travel vaccinations, to prevent external variables from spoiling your fun.

Why booking travel vaccinations for Sri Lanka is important

Sri Lanka’s regional areas hold many opportunities for exploration and discovery, yet these locations can be favoured by mosquitoes which carry the threat of Japanese Encephalitis. Disorientation is almost guaranteed and this disease can be as severe as to paralyse the infected. The best way to reduce the risk is receiving a vaccination well in advance of travel and in addition, be prepared with protective clothing and repellent if available.

Repellent may not be as helpful when faced with some of the local wildlife, so when tackling the great outdoors of the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside – or even throughout the city – it’s best to avoid contact with animals. This is particularly important if you’ve obtained a recent wound that, if the animal makes contact with through scratching or biting, could result in contraction of Rabies. Aside from preventative vaccination, a ‘look but don’t touch’ strategy is best with unfamiliar creatures.

Another precaution to take with the unfamiliar is vigilance towards consumables. The fresh produce and local cuisine is definitely to be enjoyed by visitors but it’s important to be aware of the significant chance of ingesting contaminated food and water. Typhoid and Hepatitis are two of the most concerning diseases obtainable through eating or. As a part of pre-travel preparation, your doctor can assist in vaccines to fight them, however proceeding this, it’s always best to air on the side of caution.

The considerations of disease, infection and other variables that impact our health during travel, are present in a large proportion of the best holiday locations, worldwide. This shouldn’t stop us from uncovering incredible sites and experiences, however the team at Rokeby GP can ensure you’re equipped with the adequate information and travel vaccinations required for Sri Lanka or any other destination. Book a consultation to find out more or schedule your Sri Lanka travel vaccinations today.

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Do I need vaccinations for Vietnam?

Walking through the bustling streets of Hanoi can be a stressful or exhilarating experience. With such dense population in these tourist hot spots, we leave ourselves vulnerable to airborne or environmental threats that are not as easy to see coming as a speeding motorbike. Tuberculosis is another risk of developing countries such as Vietnam, and unfortunately, it’s as easy to catch as being in close proximity of someone infected. Similarly, Rabies can be another unsuspecting disease as the temptation to approach or pat roaming animals becomes too great. The problem with human mannerisms and animal temperaments is you cannot predict it. You cannot be certain that someone will cover their mouth during that cough or whether the fluffy dog will allow you to pat it without lashing out from fear of threat and cause infection. We believe that prevention with vaccination is better than cure, and to always consider the potential risks involved with a place or interaction in an unfamiliar country.

Away from the more commercialised areas of Vietnam, there is a lot more to discover in visiting the beautiful national parks and touring the Mekong Delta. In more rural areas, it’s important to dress appropriately and protect your skin against potentially harmful insects. We’re no strangers to the mosquito in Australia, however, those that reside in rural areas of Vietnam can carry a serious disease called Japanese Encephalitis. Some people are lucky to feel mild symptoms but this disease can infect people to the point of disorientation, convulsions and even paralysis. So when considering activities off the beaten track during the planning of your trip, also consider whether you’re adequately prepared for different environments and what they might expose you to.

There are risks associated with any destination you travel, fortunately, the ones we’ve mentioned can be prevented with travel vaccinations well in advance of your departure. Rokeby GP have a team of specialists who love to travel and have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to protecting your health on overseas adventures. Book a consultation to find out more or book your travel vaccinations for Vietnam today.

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Many of us exercise healthy habits of washing hands vigorously, keeping surfaces and utensils clean, and of course covering coughs and sneezes with tissues. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts and good hygiene, we can still find ourselves at the mercy of a cold or flu. In order to prevent contracting viruses caused by the spread of germs and bacteria, we need to be more proactive and preemptive, tackling the problem before it becomes just that and avoiding a chain reaction within our office or home. The World Health Organisation (WHO) advise getting an annual Flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the contraction and spread of the Flu.

When we think about evolution in the workplace, positive attributes such as innovation and growth come to mind. Evolving viruses, however, incur quite the opposite and threaten to derail productivity on-site as well as increase absenteeism among staff. Introducing annual corporate flu vaccinations for your office can combat these issues before viruses spread and decrease the quality and quantity of work being achieved.

Can you really afford not to?

Consider how much time and money is spent on sick leave and doctors’ appointments once employees are unwell, not to mention the inconvenience and implications on work projects. Flu vaccinations are far more cost-effective for employers and employees than widespread absenteeism from virus outbreak.

The impact of the flu doesn’t stop at the workplace either – you may be bringing home a little more than your partner or family members had bargained for when they sent you off to work that day. It is in the employers’ and employees’ best interest to exercise caution and take the best possible preventative measure to avoid the many repercussions of exposure and contraction of the flu.

Corporate medical services and vaccinations are available from Rokeby GP and are a positive step towards reducing workplace illness and absenteeism; supporting workflow and improving productivity and decreasing the spread of illness among staff, their families and beyond.

Rokeby GP offer the convenience of Onsite Flu Vaccination Clinics for corporations. Our highly-trained nursing staff are friendly, efficient and take great care in making employees feel comfortable during their vaccination.

To organise your company’s Corporate Flu Clinic, please call Rokeby GP on 9381 4880 or send an email to corporate@rokebygp.com.au.

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