Frequently Asked Questions
DO I NEED A REFERRAL?
It is not necessary to have a referral from a doctor. Clients come to the Service in a variety of ways. Some are referred by a General Practitioner, Specialist Neurologist or Geriatrician. Others contact the Service themselves. Often it is the partner who makes the first contact.
WHERE DO I GO TO SEE THE NURSE SPECIALIST?
Generally, the first visit will be made to your home (hostel or nursing home if the client is in residential care). If the client is in hospital, the Nurse Specialist will visit him or her there. Sometimes, the client may prefer to visit the office for a subsequent visit.
WHAT EXACTLY WILL THE NURSE SPECIALIST DO?
The nurse will undertake a full nursing assessment and will answer any questions you may have. These might be about medications or some other aspect of the treatment. You may wish to have other members of the family present. The Nurse Specialist will also help you to gain access to other health professionals to deal with specific aspects of your treatment.
WILL MY DOCTOR BE TOLD THAT I HAVE SEEN THE NURSE SPECIALIST?
Yes. Your General Practitioner and Specialist will receive a report of the assessment made by the Nurse Specialist.
IF MY CARER NEEDS RESPITE, WILL THE NURSE SPECIALIST ARRANGE THIS?
No. But she will still be able to assist with arrangements through other agencies.
A Respite Coordinator employed by the Neurological Council of Western Australia provides this service. The Nurse Specialist may liaise with the Respite Coordinator to make sure that she understands your needs.
CAN COUNTRY PEOPLE USE THE SERVICE?
Country people can get advice by phone on a special free call number 1800 644 189 and may be able to see the nurse when visiting Perth . Please make appointments as far ahead of time as possible.
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF PARKINSON'S WA TO USE THE SERVICE?
No. The only requirement is that you have been diagnosed with Parkinson's. However, it helps the association to demonstrate the need for services and to obtain government funding if there is a large and growing membership. There are other benefits to being a member, but joining is a personal choice.
HOW DO I GET AN APPOINTMENT?
The quickest way is to ring the direct number. You may get an answering machine initially, but one of the nurses will get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can ring the office and leave a message.