Enhancing the care of patients with haematological conditions

The department of haematology at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital has launched a pilot program of shared care with general practice for patients with low risk haematological conditions.

Shared care is the joint participation of primary care physicians and specialist physicians in the delivery of care.

Shared care aims to help patients to receive care closer to home, avoid hospital wait times and receive more comprehensive primary care. For most patients, shared care will be an annual cycle, beginning with an initial specialist appointment, followed by three quarterly visits to the GP.

GPs will be contacted on an individual basis to be offered the choice of participating in this shared care program as eligible patients are identified. The conditions in scope for the pilot program are chronic lymphocytic leukemia, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and myelodysplastic syndromes.

Upon commencement, GPs will receive a care pathway outlining the recommended visit schedule, suggested care and monitoring, details of any clinical indicators (red flags) that would suggest the need for early specialist review and haematologist contact details.

A dedicated Clinical Nurse Consultant will be available to help educate patients, resolve issues and help patients navigate their care.

GPs are also encouraged to take advantage of the GP Haematology Advice telephone line. By phoning 07 3646 1353, GPs can access clinical advice from the on-call haematologist between 8.00 am and 5.00 pm Monday to Friday. Advice is also available after hours by phoning the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital on 07 3646 8111.

An education event is scheduled to take place in March 2020 for GPs who want to improve their knowledge of haematological conditions. Details will be available soon on the PHN website.

The project is being established thanks to support from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Foundation and is being led by Dr Cameron Curley, Deputy Director Haematology, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. For more information emailMNHHS-CCS-ED@health.qld.gov.au.