Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
For some programs you need a referral, but for others you don't. We usually like to know who your usual GP is and what other workers or case managers you might have so we can work together with them. Our psychologists can see you under Medicare if you are referred by your GP through a 'Mental Health Care Plan'.
If I am coming in for an Assessment what information do you need from me?
Your Medicare number
Your medications and how often you take them
Your doctor's details and pharmacy details
Any other professionals working with you
Your history of when you started taking drugs and how much and how long for
Any legal issues you need to resolve or attend to
Does my doctor need to know?
Yes we do like to work with your usual doctor to ensure we are not giving you medications that might be dangerous for you, or taking you off medications that your doctor wants you to stay on. If you have issues with this, speak to your counsellor to try to work through the issues.
Can I be visited at home?
Yes, there are some programs where you can be visited by nurses or outreach workers in your home; at your doctor's rooms; or some other mutually convenient place. Ask you counsellor if you are eligible.
I have a date to come into the Detox unit. What do I bring in?
If you are coming in to stay in one of the residential programs you need to bring enough comfortable clothes to last you for about a week, your toiletries, Medicare card or number, your GP's details and pharmacy details if you are on medication. There are clothes washing facilities so you can wash things if you need to. A small amount of cash can be handy to spend on outings, but keep in mind there is a maximum of $50 allowed. If you smoke, bring in enough cigarettes in sealed packs.
Don't bring in valuable jewellery, iPods, iPads or other personal devices, laptops, or other electrical equipment. There are hairdryers and straighteners for use in the unit if you require. Mobile phones or pagers must be given to staff and will be given back to you upon discharge. No sharp objects such as razors, scissors, and knives are allowed into the unit.
Does my family need to know?
You don't have to tell them if you don't want to. But if you do want us to work with your family or partner or support person, we can involve them in your treatment.
My son/daughter doesn't want treatment but the family is quite distressed about the situation. Can we access help without my son/daughter?
You can still come in as a family without your son/daughter and see a counsellor who can help you through some of the stress of the situation.
Does my employer need to know?
No you do not need to tell your employer. If you require a certificate for work you might want to obtain this from your own GP.
How much does it cost?
Most of the services are free, except the women's residential program which has a small weekly fee. If you are going on the Methadone/ Buprenorphine program you will need to be able to pay for your medications (around $5 per day) at your local participating pharmacy.
If you have other questions not covered here you can call 8345 6682 and ask to speak to the duty worker.
Consumer Participation Advisory Group
The CPAG is a group of consumers and staff who are interested in contributing to consumer input into the service. The aim of the group is to raise consumer views and feedback relating to service improvements, service operations, and contribute to the service planning and development process. The group provides advice and consultation to staff and management around new projects, programs or policies where relevant. The group reviews consumer feedback and suggestions from consumers and oversees the feedback mechanisms and processes back to consumers. The group also coordinates a series of events throughout the year which are relevant to service users. Membership is open to present and past service users and their families. A meeting is held once a month on the last Thursday of the month from 12-1pm. Members are welcome to come and share lunch while discussing the current relevant issues for the service. If you wish to know more about the group contact the group coordinator via email at [email protected]
Feedback
At Drug Health Services we are always trying to improve how we do things, and your feedback is valuable to this process. At each site there is a feedback form which you can fill out and place in the suggestion box. We go through these suggestions and feedback forms regularly and the Consumer Participation Advisory Group reviews the feedback quarterly. We endeavour to provide information back to you around the changes made through posters and signage on the Consumers Noticeboard at each site.
Also from time to time there are surveys or focus groups held around specific topics, and we call for people who are interested to participate in these. We will post information about the next survey or focus group here and also place signage up on the Consumer Noticeboard at each site.
More information
If you wish to talk to someone further about this information call 8345 6682
Contact Us
Phone: 8345 6682
