For referring clinicians
I provide Geriatric and General Medical services with a focus on complexity, in the setting of chronic disease and quality of life issues. My priority is providing you and your patient with a clear understanding of the diagnoses, facilitating any investigations needed, and supplying a comprehensive management plan. I value effective communication, compassionate interactions and providing people with the time they need to feel heard. Education and support is critical for our patients to have successful outcomes. I will endeavor to see your patient within a week of referral.
I am happy to receive referrals for issues without complexity as well, and can help assist with common medical conditions that benefit from a physician assessment. I am happy to be contacted to discuss whether I can be of assistance with management of your patient.
General Medicine
Undifferentiated problems
Weight loss
Chronic fatigue
Sweating/flushing
Orthostatic intolerance
Cognitive impairment
Shortness of breath
Nausea and vomiting
Pain, depending on the context
Specific medical issues
Autonomic dysfunction
Hypertension, Cardiac Failure
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, chronic cough
Hyperventilation syndrome
Chronic kidney disease
Diabetes management
Altered bowel habit and dyspepsia, hepatic dysfunction
Biochemical/electrolyte issues (eg hyponatraemia)
Neuropathy
Anaemia
Geriatric Medicine
Common problems I can assist with include
Falls/funny turns
Cognitive impairment, including subjective cognitive symptoms with normal testing
Threatened independence, and considering the transition into residential care
Polypharmacy and medication complexity
Frailty and sarcopenia
Bone management/osteoporosis treatment
Neurodegenerative conditions (eg Parkinson’s Disease)
Psychosocial complexity and vulnerability
Whānau distress
Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia
Advanced care planning