The Joint Approach Project announced the official launch of the SOS Clinic on 29 May 2017.
The Specialised Osteoarthritis Screening Clinic provides assessment, management and monitoring services for ‘holistic’ health issues effecting joint pain. Operating out of The Tweed Hospital, an experienced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist will provide General Practitioners and clients with a thorough whole-of-health report and care recommendations based on musculoskeletal assessment, physical fitness and function, quality of life, weight, as well as any bio-psycho-social findings. Ongoing assessment, management and GP reporting will be provided to help sustain OA health and self-management strategies.
The Referral Criteria:
- NOT on waiting list for Joint replacement surgery
- Hip or knee joint pain
- Diagnosis of OA
The service services the Tweed/Byron area and referrals can be made by GP’s, Specialists and Allied Health Professionals.
The service model is based on The ACI Osteoarthritis Chronic Care Program model of care with a noteable difference being that the SOS Clinic is looking at clients NOT on waitlist for surgery.
The SOS Clinic will run for an initial trial period of 12 months with a view to extend this following an evaluation period.
A collaborative effort involving The Joint Approach and other Tweed community allied health staff, will see the start of the ‘myOA’ Program late June.
What is the ‘myOA’ Program?
Where appropriate, clients seen through the ‘SOS’ will be referred to the ‘myOA’ program. This service is a targeted group OA exercise and education group program to assist clients with the physical health, weight loss and lifestyle changes to decrease pain, and improve joint health and function. It aims to ‘kick start’ positive exercise and lifestyle changes and give participants the confidence and tools to self-manage their condition in a safe, supportive and interactive environment.