Patient Services

Our medical specialists treat and manage chronic non-malignant pain. This includes facilitating and coordinating a multi-disciplinary treatment approach. An individualised program can include access to physiotherapy, psychologists, dieticians, nutritionists, hydrotherapy, exercise physiology and occupational therapists. Our specialists will also arrange the involvement of other appropriate medical specialists, as required. A key part of our specialists’ work is often the rationalisation of medication regimes to ensure our patients are receiving evidence-based pain relief, whilst minimising problematic side effects.

Our medical specialists also provide advice to general practitioners on their use and management of medications in the treatment of chronic pain. The aim of this service is to provide further assistance to general practitioners wanting a secondary opinion in relation to the treatment of complex chronic non-malignant pain. Common reasons for referral are when general practitioners are having difficulty stabilising a patient’s medications, when they are concerned about a patient misusing their medication or misusing other substances, or when a patient is possibly exhibiting medication-seeking behaviours.

Prescription drug dependence is the use of a prescription medication in a way not intended by the prescribing doctor. It can include anything from taking a friend’s prescription pain medication for your back pain to taking more of your medication than is recommended. It can also include using ground-up or crushed pills to induce euphoria.

Treatment for prescription drug dependence varies depending on the medication that is being misused or abused. Medical advice is always recommended to manage the symptoms of withdrawal and to encourage behavioural change. If the prescription medication is an opioid such as Endone or Oxycontin that is taken in high doses, registration on the Queensland Opioid Treatment Program (QOTP) may be recommended. Our medical specialists are able to register and supervise patients on the QOTP.

Solvent abuse is intentionally breathing in volatile substances in order to get a feeling of euphoria. Solvents include products such as paint thinner, nail polish remover, hairspray, cooking aerosol sprays, and glues. Solvent abuse treatment includes psychological therapies and the medical supervision of detoxification.

Treatment for hallucinogen dependence can include medically-supervised detoxification, followed by regular outpatient treatment. Our medical specialists will work with your GP, psychologist or counsellor to provide therapies aimed at reducing your reliance on hallucinogens. The treatment process can be lengthy but, with commitment, can be successful.

Cannabis is the most widely used drug in Australia. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Wellness in its April 2022 report, 11.6% of the Australian population used cannabis in 2019, up from 10.4% in 2016. Treatment for marijuana dependence ranges from counselling, guided therapy and lifestyle changes to medications. As with all substance dependencies, treatment involves breaking a cycle of psychological and physical reliance. Our medical specialists are also able to provide medications to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Many smokers can successfully quit with the assistance of their GPs. However, for those who need additional assistance, our medical specialists are able to provide a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan. E-cigarettes or vapes are a new source of concern. Many contain nicotine and other harmful substances so they are not recommended as a replacement for cigarettes. Our medical specialists are also available to treat reliance on e-cigarettes.