Our Orthopaedic Screening clinics are run by specially trained physiotherapists who assess patients referred to orthopaedic surgeons to work out what treatment might be best.
About this service
Our team of physiotherapists help to work out what is causing your problem and we will talk with you about the treatment options. We usually see people who have problems with their bones, joints, spine or muscles.
If we think surgery may help you, we will organise an appointment with one of our orthopaedic surgeons.
If we think surgery would not be helpful, we will talk with you about other treatments, such as physiotherapy or different types of exercise. We will give you options where you can find these services.
We will also send a letter to the doctor who sent you to us you to let them know what we agreed to do.
If you need help with your bone, muscle or joint problem and would like to see a physiotherapist, you can make an appointment with the Community Care Physiotherapy Service.
Who we care for
We help people who have been sent to Canberra Hospital to get help with their orthopaedic (bone, joint or muscle) problem.
This service is free if you have a Medicare Card.
How to access this service
To see us, your GP (or other doctor) needs to send a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon at Canberra Hospital.
We will contact you to organise an appointment.
What to expect
All appointments in the Orthopaedic Screening clinic take between 30 and 45 minutes.
You should wear comfortable clothing. The appointment will involve talking about your problem, but we will also look at how you move.
We will then give you recommendations about the best way to help your problem.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Any letters or correspondence from your GP
- List of medicines you are currently taking (or the boxes), including medicines you have bought without a prescription, such as herbal supplements and vitamins
- Previous x-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
Where we’re located
Orthopaedic Screening clinic, Central Outpatient Department, Building 1, Level 2 (ground level) Canberra Hospital.
We have directions and transport information for Canberra Hospital.
Information for referrers
Please see Community HealthPathways for detailed referral criteria and information.
Referral options:
- Phone: (02) 5124 2415
- Acute phone: (02) 5124 2000 (On-call registrar via switch)
- Fax: (02) 5124 5500
- SmartForm.
