COVID-19 Response
We’re Here To Help
The International Spine Centre® has always believed a collaborative approach works best and this is no different in these unprecedented times with the COVID-19 situation.
In fact, looking after one another is now more important than ever.
To facilitate your ongoing care and safety we have made some changes to the way we work. We ask for your cooperation in order to uphold the safety and well-being of all our patients, visitors, staff, health providers and general community.
Visiting The International Spine Centre® In Person
Increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases in the community have placed an increased burden on healthcare settings to manage the potential exposure of visitors and staff.
One way to manage these restrictions and prioritise everyone’s safety is to minimise the amount of people on site and how long they spend interacting with other people. In addition to the standard social distancing, hand hygiene and other societal rules, we are introducing the following protocols for people attending The International Spine Centre®.
Who can attend?
We ask that patients attend The International Spine Centre® alone where possible. If you would like a support person involved in your consult, we can arrange for a video/phone connection to be available. Please let us know as early as possible if you would like to use this service.
Children should not enter the premises unless absolutely necessary.
In general, all non-clinical face-to-face meetings (e.g. business meetings) should be conducted via video conference or offsite, preferably in an outdoor location.
I am not fully vaccinated, can I still be seen?
Our preference is for unvaccinated patients to be seen via telehealth (phone or video). We rely on your honesty to confidentially share your vaccination status with us prior to your appointment date so we can agree on the best way to provide care. If you are not vaccinated and a decision is made during a telehealth consult that a physical appointment/examination is required, we will arrange this as quickly as possible.
I would prefer to be seen by telehealth, is this ok?
Yes, we offer telehealth (phone or video) for all of our patients. However, there may be Medicare or RTWSA restrictions that apply and these can be discussed when we arrange your appointment.
Do I need to wear a mask?
You are not required to wear a mask to attend The International Spine Centre®, however it is recommended a mask covering your nose and mouth be worn for your protection.
What do I need to do when I arrive?
Our waiting room is limited. Please do not enter the clinic more than ten minutes prior to your appointment unless instructed by the team at The International Spine Centre®. You do not need to ring ahead.
Will my treatment be the same?
The changes implemented to date are precautionary measures rather than anything substantially impacting your treatment. When telehealth is provided we cannot physically examine you but if this is required we will ensure this can be achieved.
Other healthcare settings are also introducing changes. We recommend you discuss any concerns directly with them.
What do I do if I need change my appointment unexpectedly?
Finally, please reschedule your appointment or change to telehealth if you:
- display symptoms of COVID-19 including fever, dry cough, tiredness and shortness of breath
- have returned from overseas within the last 14 days
- had contact with someone who has or possibly has COVID-19
Please email or call the team to arrange this.
What else are you doing?
We are introducing a range of changes to the way we operate including limiting the number of staff on site as well as managing the way everyone moves through the building.
Further details and changes will be provided as the situation across the state evolves and we thank you for your understanding.
Visiting The International Spine Centre® Remotely
We are pleased to offer video and telephone consultations for all of our services across surgery, medicine, movement and mind.
For further details on accessing our telehealth services please contact us or read the instructions found here.