Referrals to specialist outpatient services within Princess Alexandra Hospital must be in writing, and as a minimum contain the following: Patient demographics including Medicare number and Interpreter requirements. Patient's mobile phone contact number and an alternate postal or contact address (if not the same as usual residence). Reason for referral (including the problem to be assessed, degree of loss of function, pain experienced). Results of relevant investigations (pathology, radiology, histology). Current medications and doses, prescribed and over the counter (note any recent changes in drug therapy). Allergies (drug/topical preparation). Relevant information about the patient's condition such as previous medical/surgical treatment (include systemic and topical medications prescribed for the condition) and details of any associated medical conditions which may affect the condition or its treatment (e.g., diabetes). Relevant psychological and social issues impacted by condition. Smoking and alcohol history.
Category Indications Waiting period:
1) Acute complication–current foot ulcer with or without infection; charcot / neurathropathic joint; dry gangrene; acute ischaemia (< 2 weeks)
2) High risk foot–clients with previous foot ulceration or amputation AND two or more of: peripheral vascular disease; peripheral neropathy; significant foot deformity (1-3 months)
3) At risk foot–clients with no previous foot ulceration or amputation AND one or more of: peripheral vascular disease; peripheral neropathy; significant foot deformity (> 3 months)
4) Low risk foot (Not eligible)