Emergency Care for Chronic Patients

Navigating the realm of urgent health scenarios can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions. At My Doctors Clinic Surfers Paradise, our priority is ensuring these patients receive prompt and effective treatment during emergencies. This guide outlines crucial strategies and resources to manage sudden health issues for those with enduring ailments.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways: 

  • Quick Response: Immediate action can drastically influence outcomes.
  • Informed Decisions: Understanding when to seek emergency care is critical.
  • Personalised Plans: Tailor emergency plans to individual health needs.
  • Stay Informed: Keep abreast of new and relevant health information.
  • Contact Us: Always reach out to My Doctors Clinic Surfers Paradise during a health crisis.

Understanding Emergency Care Needs 

Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma require ongoing management and can complicate the need for acute medical attention. Recognising the signs that necessitate emergency care and having a plan in place is essential for mitigating risks and enhancing health outcomes.

When to Seek Emergency Care 

Recognise the health emergency symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention:

  • Severe Pain: Unusually intense pain is a clear signal that something is seriously wrong.
  • Difficulty Breathing: Shortness of breath that suddenly worsens can be life-threatening.
  • Significant Changes in Health Status: Sudden weakness, confusion, or dizziness should prompt a quick response.

Developing a Personal Emergency Plan 

  1. List of Medications: Always have a current list of medications, including doses and schedules, readily available.
  2. Emergency Contacts: Maintain a list of key contacts such as family members, your GP, and specialist numbers.
  3. Medical Alert Information: Wear a medical alert bracelet if you have a condition like diabetes or severe allergies.

For detailed planning support, Learn more about health management.

The Importance of Personalised Care 

Every individual’s health scenario is unique. Thus, the approach to emergency situations should be personalised based on their specific health conditions. Regular check-ups are vital to ensure that your health management plans are up to date. Visit this page for more information about anual health check up guide.

Tips for Managing a Health Crisis 

  • Stay Calm: Keeping a calm and collected demeanour helps manage the situation more effectively.
  • Communication: Clearly communicate your chronic condition and symptoms to emergency responders.
  • Follow Your Plan: Stick to your pre-devised emergency plan until professional help is available.

For more advice on how to effectively communicate in emergencies, read about communication tips.

Strengthening Your Support Network 

An essential element of managing emergencies for chronic patients involves bolstering your support network. This network should include not just health professionals but also close friends, family members, and caregivers who are informed and prepared to act swiftly in unusual health situations.

  • Educate Your Circle: Make sure that those around you understand your condition and know how to respond in an emergency. This includes instructions for administering any necessary medication and information on how to operate medical equipment if required.
  • Organise Regular Updates: As your health condition evolves, so should your emergency plan. Holding regular briefings with your support network keeps everyone informed and ready to act.
  • Utilise Technology: Consider using medical alert systems or emergency apps that can send instant alerts to your caregivers and medical team if you’re in distress.

By solidifying your personal support network, you create a robust safety net that can significantly improve your response times in critical situations.

Technology and Emergency Care 

In today’s digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in managing health emergencies efficiently. From smart medical devices that track health metrics to apps that simplify communication with your medical team, leveraging technology can enhance your safety and ensure you receive help when needed.

  • Health Monitoring Devices: Wearable devices can monitor vital signs like heart rate and blood sugar levels in real-time, alerting you and your doctor to potential health issues before they escalate.
  • Emergency Apps: Apps such as ICE (In Case of Emergency) store critical health information and contact numbers, accessible to first responders without needing your device unlocked.
  • Telehealth Services: For chronic patients, telehealth platforms provide a quick way to consult with a healthcare provider without needing to travel, which is crucial during a sudden health decline.

Explore the latest in emergency health technology by visiting our services in Healthcare hub.

Practical Steps for Immediate Care 

While waiting for emergency services or medical assistance, knowing what to do can alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Here are some practical steps:

  • Stay Calm and Seated: Remaining seated reduces the risk of a fall or fainting if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Have Medication Ready: If you have been prescribed medication for emergency use (like nitroglycerin for chest pain), have it readily available and use as directed by your healthcare provider.
  • Loosen Tight Clothing: Tight clothing can restrict blood flow and breathing. Loosening these can help increase circulation and reduce discomfort.

The Role of Routine Care in Preventing Emergencies 

Preventive measures play a crucial role in reducing the likelihood and severity of emergencies. Regular visits to healthcare providers for check-ups can catch potential issues early, reducing the need for urgent care.

  • Regular Screenings: Ensure you attend all scheduled screenings and health checks.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Small changes in diet, exercise, and habits can significantly impact your health and reduce emergency incidents.

Stay on top of your preventive care by scheduling regular appointments through our easy-to-use online appointment system.

By taking proactive steps to manage your health and prepare for potential emergencies, you empower yourself to lead a safer, more controlled life, even with a chronic condition.

Conclusion 

For chronic patients, being prepared with a clear, actionable emergency plan is crucial. At My Doctors Clinic Surfers Paradise, we are dedicated to supporting you in developing these plans and providing the necessary care in urgent situations.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at My Doctors Clinic Surfers Paradise when you need urgent care or assistance with your health management plans.

FAQs

Include medical history, medications, contacts for family and your doctors, and any critical health information.

Severe, sudden symptoms like intense pain, difficulty breathing, or major changes in mental state are typical indicators.

Some situations may initially be managed at home, but professional evaluation is crucial. Always call for emergency assistance if in doubt.

Follow your emergency plan, take necessary medications, and contact emergency services or get to an emergency room.

Review and update your plan annually, or whenever there are significant changes to your health or medications.

Podiatrist Paul Clarke

Paul Clarke is a Podiatrist who specialises in the treatment and rehabilitation of pain in the foot, ankle and lower limb. Paul has worked amongst multidisciplinary clinical settings including GP’s, Podiatric Surgeons, Vascular Surgeons & Specialists, Chronic disease specialists and Podiatrists who specialise in Biomechanics and orthoses manufacturing and modifications. Paul is a graduate of the University of Newcastle, New South Wales.

Paul has a reputation for being particularly skilled and precise with a scalpel. His professional clinical interests include but are not limited to:

  • Toe nail surgeries (both PNA/TNA with matrix phenolisation). Toe and nail pathologies (Elongated nails, toe and nail deformity and fungal nail infections).
  • Achilles Tendonopathies (Trained in shockwave therapy). Heel pain (Plantar fasciitis, fat pad atrophy, nerve entrapment, apophysitis and osteochondrosis)
  • Ankle pathologies (Sprains, nerve impingements and tarsal coalitions)
  • Forefoot pathologies (Forefoot deformities/pain, Morton’s neuroma, bursitis, bunions and arthritis). Mid foot pathologies (Osteoarthritis and Tibial Post dysfunction/adult acquired flatfoot deformity)
  • Hip and lower back pain from mal foot alignment and tibial/femoral torsion
  • Paediatrics (Wart debridement, developmental growth milestones, orthotics, general assessments and deformities of the lower limb)
  • Diabetic assessments and education
  • Biomechanics and orthoses manufacturing and modifications (Custom and off the shelf devices and biomechanical assessments).

 

Paul Clarke forms a great asset to any multidisciplinary clinical team. Renowned for his kind and warm nature, Paul tends to build great rapport with patients and medical professionals alike.

Physiotherapist Patrick Harrington

Patrick Harrington Physiotherapist, B Ex Sc, M Phty Patrick has a strong interest for learning about the human body and educating on the best ways to ensure successful rehabilitation when injured.

Patrick graduated Griffith University with a Bachelor in Exercise Science, followed by a Masters in Physiotherapy degree. With a background in competitive surf-lifesaving and swimming, he has a passion for treating and educating on injuries relating to the musculoskeletal system. Patrick approaches each individual patient by educating and empowering them, in order to achieve the best health outcomes possible.

Patrick’s professional interests include:

Musculoskeletal Injuries: Treating areas including shoulders, neck & lower back, ankles, hips, and wrists, by creating programs containing manual therapy and exercises to benefit each individual patient.

Cardiorespiratory Conditions: Education and use of a variety of breathing techniques, as well as walking programs to obtain the best health outcomes.

Neurological Conditions: Retraining of gait, developing muscle strength, and developing a specific program in order to restore deficits as much as possible.

Dietitian Kailey Henry

Kailey has a passion for food and learning how nutrients interact and influence the health of our bodies.
Kailey graduated with a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics from Griffith University on the Gold Coast, and has since been sharing her passion and expertise within the community through individual consultations and group education. Kailey takes a holistic and individualized approach to nutrition, with a focus on empowering each individual to make positive, lifelong lifestyle changes through achievable goals.

Kailey’s professional interests include, but are not limited to:

  • Paediatric nutrition and pregnancy/breastfeeding
  • Education & strategies for fussy eaters, faltering growth, meeting key nutrition recommendations for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Chronic disease management
  • Nutritional management of diabetes, cholesterol health, cardiovascular disease, COPD, renal disease and liver disease.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Minimising abdominal discomfort, improving altered bowel habits, education on food choices for self-management.

Dr Day Hong Ma

Qualifications: Currently registered in the Medical Council of Australia as a Vocational Registered GP and Specialist General Surgeon. Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery University of Adelaide, South Australia MBBS. Fellow of Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh and London Master degree in Skin Cancer Medicine in University of Queensland. Extensive experience in various aspects of General Practice. In the past I have been a Senior Lecturer of the University of Queensland and Assistant Professor of Bond University involving teaching medical students. I was a supervisor for the Royal Australasian College of General Practice, involved in training junior GP. I also trained many Overseas Trained Doctors. At the present time I am a GP with the following special interests : 1. Skin Cancers skin cancer checks with Mol Max and dermoscopy. I was awarded a Professional Diploma of Dermoscopy from the International Dermoscopy Society surgical excisions of complex skin cancers ( sun cancers and melanomas ) non surgical approach to some skin cancers and precancerous lesions such as Photo Dynamic Therapy and cautery and curettage. 2. Cosmetic Medicine This includes micro needling, platelet rich plasma, and injectables such as fillers and neuromuscular modulators. I have completed the training course under the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine and Australian Skin Skills Education and Training. Dr Ma also speaks Chinese Mandarin

Dr Greeshma Tummala

I am overseas trained GP and practiced for more than 5 years in India although completed AMC licensing exam here. In India, I have practiced in all aspects of general practice.

My areas of Interest are: Women’s Health, cervical cancer screening, Antenatal Care, Child Immunisations, Chronic Disease Management, Implanon Insertion and Removal, Mental Health, Pregnancy Counselling, Travel Vaccinations, Women’s Health, Medicinal Treatment.

Dr. Tariq Hayat Jamaldini

Qualifications: MBBS, AMC Certified, FRACGP, Fellowship Royal Australian College of General Practitioners

Speaks: English, Balochi, Brahui, Hindi, and Urdu

Dr. Tariq Hayat Jamaldini is a highly experienced General Practitioner (GP) / Family Medicine Physician with a distinguished career spanning over 20 years in the field of healthcare. Renowned for his profound knowledge, comprehensive and compassionate approach, Dr. Tariq Jamaldini ensures that every family member, from infants to seniors, receives the individualised care they deserve. With a strong commitment to promoting and maintaining the health and well-being of his patients, Dr. Tariq Hayat Jamaldini has solidified his reputation as a trusted healthcare professional in the community. His medical practice is built on a foundation of integrity, empathy, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those he treats. Through his dedication to continues learning and clinical excellence, he has expertly diagnosed, treated, and managed a wide range of health conditions, placing him at the forefront of Family Medicine.

Areas of Expertise:

Dr. Tariq Jamaldini’s diverse expertise encompasses various areas of medicine, making him a well-rounded practitioner capable of addressing a wide range of patient needs. His dedication to improving the health and well-being of his patients continues to be the driving force behind his successful medical career. 

  • General Practice: Tariq Hayat Jamaldini is a trusted General Practitioner (GP) who focuses on providing a wide range of general medical services to patients of all ages. Whether you need preventive care, health assessments, or treatment for common illnesses, you can trust Dr. Jamaldini to deliver compassionate and personalized healthcare with his holistic approach.  
  • Cosmetic Medicine: Dr Tariq Hayat Jamaldini has been actively involved in performing cosmetic procedures since 2009. His interest in cosmetic medicine reflects his belief in the importance of helping patients look and feel their best. His expertise in cosmetic procedures, such as anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, PRP injections, allows him to provide patients with safe and effective solutions to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence.
  • Skin Cancer: Tariq Jamaldini takes a proactive approach to skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. His comprehensive knowledge of skin cancer, coupled with his skill in performing screenings and providing treatment options, has saved many lives. 
  • Medicinal Prescriber: Tariq Jamaldini is a certified and authorized specialist prescriber for medicinal, helping patients manage chronic pain and various medical conditions with this alternative therapy. His thorough understanding of the medical benefits of ensures that patients receive the best possible care. 
  • Men’s Health: Tariq Jamaldini understands the unique healthcare needs of men and provides specialized services tailored to men’s health concerns. Whether its addressing issues related to prostate health, sexual health, hormonal imbalances, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculations, hair loss or overall wellness, Dr. Jamaldini is here to support men in their healthcare journey.
  • Opioid Dependence Treatment: Dr Tariq Jamaldini has been a licensed opioid prescriber with Queensland Opioid Treatment Program since 2013. During this time, he has successfully treated and stabilized a significant number of patients who were struggling with opioid dependency. If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of opioid addiction, Dr. Jamaldini provides compassionate and evidence-based treatment choices. His steady dedication is focused on assisting individuals in their journey to overcome addiction and reclaim their health and overall well-being.

Dr Tariq Hayat Jamaldini dedication to providing high-quality healthcare, combined with his multifaceted expertise, makes him a respected and valued member of the medical community. His patients appreciate his unwavering commitment to their well-being and the comprehensive care he provides across various medical disciplines.

Book an online appointment or call: 07 55922299

Dr Altaf Latif Ayyaril

General Practitioner, Male, MBBS, AMC, Fellowship Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.Speaks Malayalam, and English  Dr Altaf Latif Ayyaril is a vocationally qualified and experienced General Practitioner from India having completed his Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, India in 2002. He started his medical career in various medical facilities in Kerala, India. He moved to Australia in 2007 and commenced working at Alice Springs Hospital, NT. He has since worked in hospitals in Melbourne, Gold Coast, Toowoomba and commenced General Practice in 2016 in Kilcoy QLD followed by North Stradbroke Island and Beaudesert. He was awarded a Fellow of the Royal Australia College of General Practitioners in 2021. Dr Altaf has special interests in Chronic Disease Management, Acute Management and Mental health amongst other areas of General Practice. He also performs skin cancer checks and minor skin procedures. Dr Altaf speaks Malayalam in addition to English.  

Areas of interest:

  • General Family Medicine
  • Mens health
  • Chronic disease management
  • Health assessments
  • Mental health
  • Skin cancer Checks
  • Minor surgical procedures.

Dr Paul Fisher

Diploma of the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (Dip RACOG) Dr.Fisher qualified as a Pharmacist before completing a medical degree at The University of Tasmania. After working in hospitals & General Practice in Tasmania & Queensland, He commenced work at My Doctors Clinic (formerly The Day & Night Medical Centre) 20 years ago. He is a Medical Officer in The Air Force Reserve & has worked as a Doctor for the Defence Department over the past 30 years. Paul is interested in all areas of General Practice with a special interest in Mental Health (He is a Doctor for Beyond Blue), Obstetrics (Maternity) & Diabetes.