Chronic pain can be a real game-changer, can’t it? Often, it makes the quality of life stand on its head, making the most mundane task seem gigantic. Chronic pain affects millions of Australians every year in forms such as persistent back pain, arthritis, and even migraines. But do not be alarmed; effectual management is well within your grasp. Let’s talk about chronic pain management plans, especially through Medicare, and how you can manage to get back control over your life.
What is Chronic Pain?
First things first, what is chronic pain, to begin with? Quite simply, chronic pain is pain that endures longer than three months. It can be continuous or intermittent and fluctuates in intensity. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a warning signal for injury, chronic pain can persist well after the initial cause has been treated.
Why is Chronic Pain Management Important?
It is debilitating to live with chronic pain. It affects one’s body, mind, and quality of life. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, approximately one in five Australians aged 45 years and over experience chronic pain. To improvise in life quality and reduction of pain, effective management of chronic pain becomes necessary.
Role of Medicare in Chronic Pain Management
Medicare is Australia’s universal health insurance scheme, and it plays an important role in the management of chronic pain. If you have chronic pain, then you’re entitled to a chronic pain management plan under Medicare, but what does that mean, exactly?
What is a Chronic Pain Management Plan?
A chronic pain management plan is a structured approach toward the meeting of your needs. This, in essence, encompasses detailed assessment, setting realistic goals, and the institution of various pain management strategies. At The Doctors Bushland Beach, our general practitioners and nurses can help you come up with an effective plan.
How Does Medicare Assist with Chronic Pain Management Plans?
Medicare does have some services under the Chronic Disease Management Programme. The CDM entails the following:
- GP Management Plans: These are plans drawn up by your general practitioner, detailing your health needs, goals of the treatment, and the services required to manage your chronic pain.
- Team Care Arrangements: Your GP can organize a TCA if your condition needs multidisciplinary care. In such an arrangement, there are referrals to various allied health professionals, including physiotherapists, psychologists, or dietitians.
- Medicare Rebates: You are eligible for Medicare rebates for up to five allied health services per calendar year with either a GPMP or TCA.
Steps to Get a Chronic Pain Management Plan Through Medicare
Step 1: See Your GP
This will entail making an appointment with your GP. He or she will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the nature of the chronic pain and how it impacts daily living.
Step 2: Come Up with a Plan
Along with the assessment, your GP will also work in collaboration with you on a chronic pain management plan. This chronic pain management plan will contain all those various treatment strategies required for medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Step 3: Allied Health Services
If allied health professional referrals are included in the plan, your GP provides access to these services through a TCA. It assures coordinated pain management.
Step 4: Review and Adjust
Chronic pain management is an ongoing process. Regular reviews with your GP are important to check on progress and change treatments to help keep the plan effective in managing your symptoms
Treatment Options for Chronic Pain Management
The management of chronic pain can be very varied. Here are some common treatment options that may form part of your chronic pain management plan
- Medications: Pain killers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other drugs may be prescribed, which can help in the mitigation of the pain symptoms. Your GP will prescribe drugs according to needs and condition.
- Physical Therapy: Physiotherapy is needed, which helps to improve mobility, strengthens muscles, and alleviates pain. Common techniques employed are exercises, massages, hydrotherapy, and many others.
- Psychological Support: Chronic pain may also affect mental health. The psychological support might include CBT, which helps deal with the emotional aspects of chronic pain.
- Changes in Lifestyle: Healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercises, proper diet, and adequate sleep, can make a significant difference in pain management.
- Alternative Therapies: A number of people derive relief from alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic, or mindfulness meditation.
Advantages of Following a Chronic Pain Management Plan
Improved Quality of Life
An improved quality of life is one of the most important benefits of chronic pain management under Medicare. You should expect a decrease in levels of pain and increased ability to conduct activities of daily living.
Financial Relief
Let’s face it; medical expenses add up quickly. Medicare comes in handy in covering a portion of such treatments. In that way, you will find it much easier to follow through with the plan, since you will not have to burden yourself over the financial stress.
Holistic Approach
A chronic pain management plan incorporates several healthcare providers to ensure that every aspect of your pain is taken care of. This holistic approach can be far more helpful than addressing the problem with just one type of treatment.
Conclusion
Navigating through Medicare and chronic pain management plans that come with it may be overwhelming at times; the key is communicating openly with your healthcare providers. Ask questions, seek clarification, and make sure you understand each step of your care plan.
