Hi Garry
I am sorry to hear about your stroke. It’s great that you are thinking about your future health as it is important to have medical follow up after your stroke.
I would recommend that you are initially seen by your local doctor at your nursing home. It is important to have regular contact with your GP so they can keep an eye on things like your blood pressure, your cholesterol levels, your diabetes management (if you are a diabetic), your heart (if you have been diagnosed with something like an irregular heart beat (Atrial Fibrillation)) and your weight. These are all risk factors associated with stroke. If your doctor is concerned they may then refer you to a diabetes specialist (endocrinologist), or a cardiologist or a neurologist. These specialists would all require a GP referral.
Did you have a neurology review before you moved to Melbourne? Most people will be seen by a neurologist about 6-12 weeks after their stroke but this may not always occur. Speak with your Gp about whether you should be referred to a neurologist here in Melbourne.
Have you been noticing any changes since you’ve moved to Melbourne? If you have noticed changes since your stroke, and these changes are progressing, then I would suggest talking to your local doctor about a referral to a neurologist. If you are having issues with things like walking, your speech, or strength, you may also benefit from input from an allied health professional such as a Physiotherapist or Speech Therapist. You can ask at your facility whether they have access to these health professionals, or talk with you GP about your eligibility for the chronic conditions management treatment plan. This would entitle you to 5 sessions of therapy at a Medicare rebated rate. You can then find a private therapist to see.
If you’d like to talk in more detail, please give us a call at StrokeLine on Ph. 1800 787 653. We are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (EST).
Best wishes
Siobhan (StrokeLine)