Dr Vladana O’Neill – Weight Loss Program



Pre Consultation

People with excess body weight often have difficulties losing weight. Not because they lack motivation or willpower and not because they are gluttonous, rather they are suffering from a Chronic Complex Disease called Obesity.
And this complex disease causes other chronic complex medical conditions such as; sleep apnoea, headaches, metabolic syndrome, infertility, fatty liver disease, heart attacks, anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder and cancer.
Weight loss might be the goal but improvement in your metabolic health and limiting disease progression should be the ultimate result.
To approach obesity and metabolic health holistically we need to identify what current illness and symptoms you already have.

So please complete the following questionnaires as truthfully as possible before your first appointment.

Initial Consultation

We will look at your general medical history, family history related to obesity and its accompanying complications, then your previous weight loss attempts -- what you've tried, for how long, successes, side effects, what you would consider doing again. We will then explore why your weight loss attempts have been unsuccessful, how the body naturally fights/responds to changes in weight, what the trigger for your weight regain might be, what we can change now and what other conditions we might need to treat/manage.
There will be a full thorough physical examination for signs of chronic obesity-related illnesses and you will be given some investigations to complete -- blood tests, ECG, as well as a food diary to record 1wks worth of food intake.

2 Consultation - Plan

We will review your investigations and eating pattern questionnaires. We will discuss weight loss options; diet, medication, surgery. Exploring how your chosen option facilitates weight loss, the pros and cons of each, discuss review time-frames and what to do if you have an adverse reaction or inadequate response to therapy. We will also discuss long term maintenance of weight control. You will receive a resource pack with further directed learning, links to medication product information, diet modification websites with recipes and information or links to the latest scientific data on weight loss.

Consult 3 - Maintenance (approx 3monthly, earlier if needed)

These consults will focus on assessing response to therapy, review of disease progression or remission. Blood tests will be completed before the appointment and a physical exam with occur during the consult.

Additional Consultation

Because obesity and its associated health conditions are chronic complex diseases will we also organise for a GP Management Plan to facilitate support from the dietician/psychologist/exercise physiologist or physiotherapist.
Where relevant a Mental Health Care Plan can be organised for psychology support relating to eating disorders, anxiety and depression.
Where relevant we will discuss screening tests and/or investigations to complete your overall health overhaul including bowel screening, CVD risk stratification, bone density assessment, breast screening and cervical cancer screening.
Where relevant we will discuss fertility and pregnancy plans.

About your Doctor

Dr. Vladana O'Neill, a highly respected general practitioner, is now offering comprehensive weight loss programs through a series of three-part consultations. With a focus on women's health and wellness, Dr. O'Neill combines her medical expertise with a compassionate approach to help individuals achieve their weight loss goals.
Dr. Vladana O'Neill's weight loss programs are designed to be holistic, supportive, and effective. Her dedication to patient care and her expertise in women's health make her a trusted partner in achieving lasting weight loss and improved overall well-being. If you're looking for a personalised, medically-guided approach to weight loss, Dr. O'Neill's three-part consultation program offers the structure and support you need to succeed.

Dr Vladana O"Neill Weight Loss Program pre questionnaire


Three Factor Eating Questionnaire


Epworth sleepiness score


Dass21


Fees



Dr Vladana O'Neill Weight Loss Program

Consultation Fee Medicare Rebate Out of Pocket
Weight Loss Initial $295.00 $112.15 $182.85
Weight Loss Plan $140.00 $42.85 $97.15
Weight Loss Maintenance $140.00 $42.85 $9715

FAQ



Can I join the program if I’m already on a different weight loss plan?

Dr. O’Neill can review your current plan and make recommendations to optimise it, ensuring it aligns with your health needs and weight loss objectives.

How do I book a consultation?

You can book online by selecting Dr Vladana Weight Loss Program

What should I bring to my first consultation?

Bring any relevant medical records, a list of current medications, and information about your dietary habits and physical activity. This will help Dr. O’Neill create a comprehensive and personalised weight loss plan.

How soon can I expect to see results?

Results vary based on individual factors such as adherence to the plan and starting point. Dr. O’Neill will work with you to set realistic and achievable goals.

What if I have a medical condition that affects my weight?

Dr. O’Neill’s expertise in general practice and women’s health allows her to consider any medical conditions you may have, ensuring that your weight loss plan is safe and effective.

How often will I need to see Dr. O'Neill?

After the initial three-part consultation, the frequency of follow-ups will depend on your progress and individual needs. Dr. O’Neill will recommend a schedule that best supports your goals.

What is a healthy heart check?

Healthy Heart Check is designed to assess and manage the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adults. These checks are aligned with guidelines from the Heart Foundation and other relevant health authorities. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from a Healthy Heart Check in Australia:

Eligibility:

  • Adults aged 45 years and over without known CVD.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 30 years and over without known CVD.

Components of a Healthy Heart Check:

1. Medical History Review:

  • Detailed assessment of personal and family medical history.
  • Evaluation of lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and physical activity.

2. Physical Examination:

  • Measurement of blood pressure.
  • Calculation of body mass index (BMI) using height and weight measurements.
  • Waist circumference measurement to assess abdominal obesity.

3. Blood Tests:

  • Cholesterol levels, including total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides.
  • Blood glucose levels to screen for diabetes or pre-diabetes.

4. Cardiovascular Risk Assessment:

  • Using tools such as the Australian Absolute Cardiovascular Disease Risk Calculator to estimate the 5-year risk of a heart attack or stroke.
  • This assessment takes into account age, gender, smoking status, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes status.

5. Lifestyle and Risk Factor Management:

  • Discussion on ways to manage and reduce risk factors, such as quitting smoking, improving diet, increasing physical activity, and moderating alcohol consumption.
  • Development of a personalised action plan to improve heart health.
  • Advice on weight management and strategies to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

6. Medication Review:

  • Evaluation of current medications, if any, and discussion about the potential need for medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes.

7. Follow-Up and Monitoring:

  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments to the action plan, and provide ongoing support.
  • Encouragement to have regular health checks and screenings to keep track of heart health.

Medicare Benefits:

  • The Healthy Heart Check is covered under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for eligible Australians. This means that eligible patients can receive these checks with minimal out-of-pocket costs.

Benefits of a Healthy Heart Check:

  • Early detection and management of cardiovascular risk factors.
  • Personalised strategies to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  • Improved overall health and quality of life.

What is a Mental Health Care Plan ?

A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a structured approach to managing mental health issues, tailored to an individual’s specific needs. It is typically developed by a general practitioner (GP) in collaboration with the patient and outlines the patient’s mental health condition, treatment goals, and the strategies to achieve those goals. In Australia, an MHCP can also facilitate access to Medicare-subsidised mental health services. Here’s an overview of what a Mental Health Care Plan includes:

1. Initial Assessment:

  • Medical History: Review of the patient’s medical and mental health history, including any previous diagnoses, treatments, and medications.
  • Current Symptoms: Detailed discussion about current mental health symptoms, their duration, severity, and impact on daily life.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Evaluation of lifestyle factors such as sleep, diet, exercise, and substance use that may affect mental health.
  • Family History: Inquiry about any family history of mental health issues to identify potential hereditary factors.

2. Diagnosis:

  • Based on the initial assessment, the GP may provide a diagnosis or provisional diagnosis of the mental health condition (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc.).

3. Treatment Goals:

  • Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for treatment.
  • Goals may include symptom reduction, improved functioning, coping strategies, and overall well-being.

4. Treatment Plan:

  • Therapeutic Interventions: Recommendations for evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, or other psychotherapies.
  • Medication: If appropriate, the GP may prescribe medication to manage symptoms. This includes information on dosage, potential side effects, and monitoring.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Suggestions for lifestyle changes that can support mental health, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, good sleep hygiene, and stress management techniques.

5. Referrals:

  • Mental Health Professionals: Referral to psychologists, psychiatrists, or other mental health specialists for further assessment and therapy.
  • Support Services: Information about and referrals to community support services, support groups, or social services that can provide additional help.

6. Review and Monitoring:

  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with the GP to monitor progress, review treatment effectiveness, and make necessary adjustments to the plan.
  • Evaluation of Goals: Periodic evaluation of the treatment goals and progress towards achieving them.

7. Access to Medicare Subsidies:

  • In Australia, having an MHCP allows patients to access Medicare-subsidised sessions with psychologists, social workers, or occupational therapists. Patients are eligible for up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year under Medicare.

8. Crisis Management:

  • Emergency Contacts: Information on who to contact in case of a mental health crisis.
  • Safety Plan: Development of a safety plan that includes steps to take if symptoms worsen or in the event of a crisis.

9. Patient Involvement:

  • Patient Participation: Active involvement of the patient in the development and implementation of the MHCP to ensure it aligns with their needs and preferences.
  • Informed Consent: Ensuring the patient understands and agrees to the proposed plan and any referrals.

Benefits of a Mental Health Care Plan:

  • Structured Approach: Provides a clear, organised approach to managing mental health issues.
  • Personalised Care: Tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances.
  • Access to Services: Facilitates access to a range of mental health services and professionals through Medicare.
  • Ongoing Support: Ensures regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan for continuous improvement.
  • Empowerment: Involves the patient in their own care, promoting a sense of control and empowerment over their mental health journey.

By developing a Mental Health Care Plan, patients can receive comprehensive and coordinated care, improving their chances of achieving better mental health outcomes.

 

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