Rheumatology Medicine cares for and treats people with problems relating to joints, muscles, bones, and the immune system.
About this service
We offer treatments that help:
- reduce pain
- prevent disease progression and joint damage
- maintain and/or improve joint mobility
- promote self-management, and
- assist with managing other existing medical conditions.
Who we care for
We care for adults and children.
We offer these services for free if you have a Medicare Card or an Asylum Seeker Card.
How to access this service
You will need a referral to access our service.
Referrals to the Rheumatology Department can be made by General Practitioners (GPs) and other specialist doctors.
What to expect
Your referral will be sent to us electronically by your GP or specialist doctor
We will review and triage your referral.
Once triaged, you will be put on a waitlist. We will write to you and your referring doctor to confirm this. Your appointment will be booked from the waitlist. Appointments are booked in date order - the longest waiting will be offered an appointment first.
The Central Health Intake team will call you to organise an appointment time. You can also request a letter with your appointment details.
If you have any questions relating to your referral or appointment you can call Central Health Intake on (02) 5124 2415.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Any letters or correspondence from your GP
- Private health insurance card (if applicable/if you want to use it)
- Medicines you need to take while you are here
- List of medicines you are currently taking (or the boxes), including medicines you have bought without a prescription, such as herbal supplements and vitamins
- Previous x-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
- Your child’s personal health record (Blue Book)
Where we’re located
- Paediatric Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, Building 11, Level 1, Canberra Hospital.
- Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, Building 3, Level 1 (ground level), Canberra Hospital.
We have directions to Canberra Hospital.
Resources
Australian Rheumatology Association
American College of Rheumatology
Empowered - Arthritis Australia
Information for referrers
Please see Community HealthPathways for detailed referral criteria and information.
Referral options:
- Acute phone: (02) 5124 2000 (On call registrar via switch)
- Phone: (02) 5124 2415
- Fax: (02) 5124 5500
- SmartForm.