Management of any ageing-related concerns
As you age, your general health may start to deteriorate. Some common concerns can include urinary or faecal incontinence, decreased mobility, increasing falls, difficulty managing at home or deteriorating memory.
We can provide advice on a wide range of things, including additional services that we can access to help you manage in your own home. If you have any health concerns, please make an appointment to discuss them with your GP.
Bulk Billed Appointments and Concession Cards
Most GPs at SmartClinics offer some bulk billing for pension card holders. You can get a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card if you meet specific criteria.
You can get a card if you:
- have reached age pension age
- don’t qualify for a payment from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- meet an income test, and
- are an Australian resident currently living in Australia
With your card, you can get:
- cheaper medicine under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
- bulk billed doctor visits at most SmartClinics locations – please contact your local SmartClinics Medical Centre for more details
- a bigger refund for medical costs when you reach the Medicare Safety Net
Senior Health Assessment
Did you know that a Health Assessment fully funded by Medicare is available for older Australians?
To be eligible for the assessment, you need to be 75 years and over and not be an admitted patient in a hospital or a resident in an aged care facility. If required, it can be done every year.
After a discussion with your regular GP, an assessment may be recommended. It involves either a home visit or an appointment at the practice with a nurse, followed by a review appointment with the GP. You or your carer will be given a copy of the assessment. Any significant others or carers are also encouraged to be present at the time of the assessment.
There are a number of benefits to participating in this type of Health Assessment. They include a medication review, identifying any unknown health problems that may require attention, keeping informed and confident about your health, information about or initiation of home care services and home modification if required, and referral to appropriate government agencies or health professionals.
Early intervention can allow you to enjoy better health for longer. If you are interested in this type of assessment, please speak with your doctor or make an appointment to talk to your local GP at SmartClinics.
