JHH Service Directory

Our Emergency Department is one of the busiest tertiary referral centres in Australia and the only trauma referral centre in NSW outside of Sydney.

Our specialist staff are focused on meeting the needs of acutely ill and injured patients, providing care for both adult and paediatric patients throughout Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Northern NSW.

Patients are seen in order of medical urgency. If you have a non- urgent medical complaint you should make an appointment with your General Practitioner.

Connected to the Emergency Department is an eight bed short stay unit for emergency patients requiring further observation and assessment.

Our department is accredited with the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine for both adult and paediatric emergency medicine training. Within the larger Emergency Network we provide a number of comprehensive medical and nursing training and transition programs.

The John Hunter Emergency Department has a multidisciplinary team, including expert medical, nursing, allied health, administrative and support staff.​

Location

• Level 2

John Hunter Hospital is a major teaching hospital and is the Primary Tertiary Referral Centre for Trauma in northern NSW, covering all surgical specialties including Cardiothoracic. It includes John Hunter Children’s Hospital, one of the three tertiary Paediatric hospitals in the state. The busy Intensive Care Unit provides Adult Intensive Care Services and supports a Medical Retrieval Service. There is a separate Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Newcastle is a coastal city and busy port within easy reach of Sydney. There are superb surfing beaches and recreational opportunities, and the nearby Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine producing districts.

Newcastle is a great place to live and work. Enjoy living with lake or ocean side views, in new suburban estates, on small or large rural properties, mountain cabins or inner city semi-detached and apartment living at affordable prices. Newcastle is less than 30 minutes to Sydney (by air) from Australia’s fastest growing regional airport and offers easy access to the spectacular beauty of Byron Bay and the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef.

Mission statement

The John Hunter Hospital Intensive Care Unit’s mission is to embody compassion to our patients, their significant others, and our staff so that we can improve the quality of life of our patients.

Our CORE values of Collaboration, Openness, Respect and Empowerment shape every action we take. We improve the quality of life of our patients through world class health care provision by highly skilled, passionate and compassionate staff utilising the best knowledge, skills and technology available.

Our staff are our greatest asset, and we recognise that patient care is only as good as our team is.

We invest in our staff so they can invest in our patients. Our world class multidisciplinary team bring skills and knowledge gained from their experience around the globe to care for our patients in a collaborative, open, respectful and empowering team environment. We embrace and value the importance of a safe, civil and professional courteous environment in which we value each other and their contribution.

The 27 bed John Hunter Hospital ICU admits over 2000 critically unwell patients each year.

We actively strive to be an equal opportunity employer, and are proud to have a linguistically and ethnically diverse staff. John Hunter ICU is committed to to Closing the Gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, as well as advancing the careers of our Aboriginal staff.

Hunter New England Health works in partnership with the Organ and Tissue Authority and the NSW Organ and Tissue Donation Service to optimise organ and tissue donation for transplantation.

Our partners include eye and tissue banks, community organisations and the corporate and business sector, each playing an important role in contributing to Australia’s national reform programme.

Hunter New England Health has a committed team that facilitates donation across both public and private hospital sectors. This is a 24 hour a day on-call service.

The Organ and Tissue Donation team engage in community education and awareness campaigns. Our key message is:

• DISCOVER the facts about organ and tissue donation
• DECIDE and register on the organ and tissue Register
• DISCUSS your donation decision with family and friends.

To speak to a Donation Specialist Nurse please call the John Hunter Hospital switchboard (02) 4921 3000 and ask to speak to the Donation Specialist Nurse for organ donation.

Location

• Critical Care Services

The Hunter Retrieval Service (HRS), critical care doctors and nurses have been delivering inter-hospital retrieval services to our region for more than 25 years.

Based at John Hunter Hospital, the HRS provide 24 hour / 7 day a week critical care advice, medical care and transport for critically ill and injured patients located within Hunter New England, Mid-North Coast and beyond. Patients are transported by road, helicopter and / or a fixed wing aircraft.

The inter-hospital retrieval team is comprised of a Senior Intensive Care Nurse and a Consultant or Senior Trainee from Emergency, Anaesthetics or Intensive Care.

Retrieval drivers joined our HRS inter-hospital team in 2015, with the introduction of our dedicated retrieval road vehicle.

In March 2014, HRS commenced a pre-hospital (primary) service based at the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) base in Newcastle.

In conjunction with NSW Ambulance (NSWA) paramedics, HRS doctors provide advanced medical decision making and care to patients at pre-hospital scenes (e.g. motor vehicle accidents) before transporting them to hospital for their ongoing care.

In conjunction with other emergency services, the HRS pre-hospital service also fulfils a state rescue role that includes Search and Rescue, and helicopter winch operations.​​

Location

• ​Level 3

John Hunter Cardiology provides inpatient and outpatient services for adults and children with conditions that affect their heart such as heart attack, angina, heart failure, heart rhythm disturbances. It is the largest centre outside Sydney and has led major innovations in the treatment of heart problems throughout NSW and Australia.

Our inpatient services are available 24 hours per day and patients are cared for within our specialist cardiology units:

• Coronary Care Unit (CCU)
• Ward G3
• Cardiac Catheter Laboratory (CCL)

Within our CCL we perform inpatient and outpatient procedures including:

• Angiograms
• Angioplasty / Stenting
• Pacemaker / Defibrillator implants
• Innovative procedures for blocked arteries and treating the electrical system of the heart (EP studies, Ablation).​

Our team works closely with heart surgeons and have a heart team which discusses the best treatment options for patients who may require surgery.

Access to our Outpatient Services requires a referral from your GP. We offer heart investigations such as:

• Electrocardiograph (ECG) the use of ultrasound (echocardiogram, coronary CT, MRI)
• Heart rhythm and blood pressure monitoring.

We also offer Cardiology Clinics / telehealth appointments with our cardiologists and have a number of specialist clinics including:

• Heart failure
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Aboriginal health services
• Antenatal and paediatric cardiology
• Pacemaker and implantable defibrillator devices follow up clinics.

Inpatient, outpatient and telehealth options are available to patients requiring further education, exercise and support to manage their heart condition.​

Locations

• Cardiac Outpatient Rehabilitation Services
  Level 1
• Diagnostic Centre Outpatient Department
  Level 2
• Cardiac Outpatient Consulting Service
  North Block Level 2
• Cardiovascular Department
  Level 3
• Cardiac Catheter Laboratory (CCL)
  Level 3
• Coronary Care Unit (Ward G3)
  Level 3

Patients who are experiencing heart problems such as heart attack, irregularity of heartbeat or heart failure are cared for in our Coronary Care Unit.

At John Hunter Hospital, we have an 8 bed Coronary Care Unit, 16 monitored beds within Ward G3C (Cardiology) and an additional four beds for pre and post procedure patients.

The Coronary Care Unit provides a 24 hour / 7 days a week service with highly trained staff who coordinate with other hospitals in the region to provide appropriate and efficient treatment for our patents.

All patients of the Coronary Care Unit have access to social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pharmacist and rehabilitation support. Cardiac Rehabilitation is offered to patients nearby their home.

Location

• ​Level 3

The Diabetes and Endocrinology team offers consultative and management services across all aspects of Diabetes including:​

• ​T1 Diabetes with insulin pump and continuous glucose sensors
• Transition clinics for young people T1 Diabetes
• Combined Antenatal Endocrinology with obstetricians
• High risk Diabetic Foot and Type 2 Diabetes​.

In addition, we are implementing the NSW Health Award winning Alliance Program across our region to promote integrated diabetes care within GP practices. We also offer educational programs for both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, and Gestational Diabetes.​

Inpatient services are available for all aspects of Endocrinology and Diabetes at John Hunter Hospital. Our team includes experienced Diabetes Educators and Dietitians who work in close collaboration with other members of the multidisciplinary team which includes:

• ​​​​​Podiatrists
• Vascular Surgeons
• Orthopaedic Surgeons
• Infectious Disease experts.

​Our Endocrinology Services manages the:

• ​​Assessment and management of general endocrine disorders
• Pituitary disorders in conjunction with Neurosurgical Services
• Adrenal, pancreatic, thyroid and parathyroid disorders including thyroid cancer with dedicated Endocrine Surgeons
• Hypogonadism
• Metabolic bone disorders including osteoporosis
• Transgender Services.

Location

• Ward G1

The Gastroenterology Department at John Hunter Hospital has a dedicated Gastroenterology Ward, Outpatient Clinic and busy Endoscopy Unit.

The department provides specialised, multi-disciplinary care to adults with a range of gastro-intestinal and liver disease problems, offering both inpatient and outpatient clinical services.

The department is involved in clinical and laboratory research through the John Hunter Hospital, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle. There are 9 Staff Specialists in the department, one Visiting Medical Officer, and two Advanced Trainees.

The Gastroenterology Department provides a comprehensive service including assessment and management of:

• ​Inflammatory bowel disease
• Coeliac disease
• Gut and intestinal motility disorders
• Oesophageal disorders
• Acute and chronic liver disease
• Chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C)
• Pancreatic disorders
• Other complex GI and nutritional problems.

Location

• ​Level 2

The Department of General Medicine looks after patients admitted to hospital with multiple health conditions, including those associated with advanced age who are requiring holistic and multidisciplinary care by expert general physicians, nursing staff and allied health personnel.

General Medicine run the Medical Assessment and Coordination Unit (MACU) which provides acute care to patients requiring admission to any of our medical units. At any one time, we have four teams of general physicians, medical registrars (specialists in training) and resident doctors looking after an average of 50 patients in the hospital. In addition to this we provide consultative advice for patients of the Surgical Services.

General Medicine is based on Ward G1 which provides specialised nursing and allied health skills such as the Close Observation Bay for older people with cognitive impairment and risk of falls. Outpatient services for people with complex general medical problems are available and provided by our general physicians.

Location

• Medical & Interventional Services
  Level 2

The Immunology and Infectious Diseases Unit is a combined service encompassing Immunology (clinical immunology, allergy, and immunoglobulin therapies) and Infectious Diseases (specialist infectious diseases consultancy, home IV antibiotic service, Q-fever clinics and travel medicine advice) and HIV medicine.

The Immunology and Infectious Diseases Unit has a multidisciplinary team inclusive of medical, nursing, social work, dietitians and pharmacy staff. Infectious Diseases support is also provided to the Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Services.

Location

• North Block
  Level 2​

The Infusion Lounge is an outpatient area housing 12 spaces for the undertaking of infusions for our patients.

Patients are referred to the Infusion Lounge by a medical specialist. Infusions are conducted to manage many different conditions including immune deficiencies, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, Crohn’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Depending on the medication to be administered, infusions can take from 30 minutes to seven hours. Some infusions carry a small risk of an adverse reaction and, in these instances, the patient may be required to stay in the Infusion Lounge for a while after the infusion is completed for monitoring by our nursing staff.

Other services use the Infusion Lounge from time to time, including the allergy service for allergen testing and desensitisation, and the nurse PICC Insertion Team for placing peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs).

The Infusion Lounge is open Monday to Friday, 7.30am-4.30pm.​​

Location

• ​North Block
  Level 2

The Neurology Department provides inpatient and outpatient care, that includes both diagnosis and treatment of disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. Common conditions include:

• Stroke
• Epilepsy
• Motor Neuron Disease​
• Multiple Sclerosis, and
• Parkinson’s disease

​Many other less common disorders of the nervous system can also be diagnosed and treated by our specialists.

We perform specialised outpatient testing including:

• ​Nerve conduction studies
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Electroencephalography (EEG)
• A variety of evoked potential studies, and
• Vestibular testing

We have highly trained specialist nurses in the area of stroke, Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders, as well as Multiple Sclerosis, who assist patients in specialist clinics, and in the community.

The Neurology Department is also involved in clinical research, particularly in the fields of stroke, Multiple Sclerosis and vestibular dysfunction. Many of our staff members have either academic or clinical teaching appointments in the Faculty of Health at the University of Newcastle.

Members of the Neurology Department are active in medical education, teaching medical students, junior residents and registrars, as well as advanced trainees specialising in Neurology. They also provide education and guidance to the broader community, including fellow medical practitioners, patients and carers.

Location

• Neurology Department 
  Ward G2
  Level 2

Out and About is an intravenous (IV) therapy service that allows patients to receive their IV treatment in the comfort of their home setting rather than in hospital.

Patients must be considered well enough to be managed at home to access this service. Most patients will receive their IV treatment through a PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) or an implantable port.

The treatment course is usually from 1 to 6 weeks in duration, depending on the infection being treated. Patients are admitted to the service under one of two infectious diseases specialists Dr Mark Loewenthal or Dr Katy Lai. The antibiotic therapy and all of the IV equipment is provided by the service.

Some patients are visited daily by community nurses who administer their IV medication. The remainder of patients and families are taught to self-administer. All patients are reviewed by their medical specialist at least once per week and are contacted daily by the Out & About nursing staff.

There is 24 hours, 7 days a week, on call Nursing and Medical team support for patients at home should any problems arise.

Location

• Level 2, North Block, Royal Newcastle Centre

Rehabilitation Medicine​ focuses on maximising function, independence, and quality of life for patients with a long term disability resulting from a health condition or physical trauma, and those recovering from a severe or complex illness or injury.

Rehabilitation Services provided at John Hunter Hospital include:

The Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine (DRSM) is a comprehensive tertiary hospital unit. The service includes direct and consultative inpatient care, clinic services, and active involvement in the Respiratory Stream across the Hunter New England Health.

The Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine has 16 inpatient beds on ward F2 and provides clinic services for:

• ​​Rapid Access Clinic (RAC)
• Adapt Clinic
• Difficult Airways Clinic (DAC)
• Cystic Fibrosis Services
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program
• Newcastle Sleep Disorders Centre
• Tuberculosis Services
• Pulmonary Function Laboratory
• Clinical research laboratory
• Interstitial Lung Disease
• Non-Invasive Vents.

​The department also conducts a lung cancer clinic at the Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital as part of the Hunter Lung Cancer Service and outreach clinics in other parts of the Local Health District including Cessnock, Muswellbrook, Maitland, Moree and Narrabri.

The Newcastle Sleep Disorders Centre (NSDC) is a diagnostic laboratory established to investigate sleep related breathing disorders such as sleep apnoea. The NSDC primarily operates on an outpatient basis but also conducts overnight sleep studies and for non-acute non-invasive ventilation.

The Pulmonary Function Laboratory is located in the Diagnostic Centre at John Hunter Hospital. The lab performs a wide range of routine and complex respiratory function testing including:

• ​Spirometry
• Lung volumes
• Gas transfer
• Bronchial provocation testing
• Cardiopulmonary exercise testing
• Overnight oximetry monitoring
• Altitude simulation testing.

​Location

• Level 2 and Ward F2

The Rheumatology Department offers a comprehensive clinical service for patients with musculoskeletal diseases, including:

• ​Inflammatory joint and systemic diseases
• Mechanical and degenerative disorders
• Metabolic bone diseases.

​There are dedicated clinics available for osteoporosis and osteoporosis re-fracture prevention. The rheumatology clinic treats patients with conditions inclusive of:

• ​Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Lupus
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Systemic vasculitis
• Scleroderma
• Inflammatory myositis
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis, and
• Paget’s disease.

​Clinics are held daily in the John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service. Weekly clinics are held at Belmont Hospital, and a monthly clinic at Awabakal in Hamilton.

A Paediatric Rheumatology clinic is held monthly at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital and a Rheumatology Young Adult (adolescent / transitional care) clinic in the John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service monthly.

Inpatient services are located in ward F2 at John Hunter Hospital. Admissions are either elective through bookings made with a specialist, or urgent via the Emergency Department. A 24 hour consultative service is provided in person at John Hunter Hospital and by phone to other facilities.

Outpatient appointments are made on referral by a general practitioner and are triaged according to clinical urgency. Waiting lists are pooled and appointments are allocated to the next available consultant.

Appointments to Paediatric Rheumatology and young adult clinic are made by tertiary referral only, via an Adult Rheumatologist or a General Paediatrician.

Location​

• Level 3

The Pacific Clinic offers a variety of sexual health and HIV services and support programs including:

No referral is necessary, and all visits are free and confidential. While we prefer to bulk bill your visit using your Medicare Card, you will still be seen if you don’t have access to a Medicare Card or prefer not to use it.

If you would prefer a male or female clinician, please advise our friendly staff when making your appointment. Interpreters are available in most languages.

To find out more, visit hnesexualhealth.org.au

Location

• ​Level 2
  670 Hunter Street

The Anaesthesia Service ​at John Hunter Hospital has approximately 80 staff specialist clinicians and over 40 medical trainees who provide state of the art and safe anaesthetic care for your surgery or procedure.

Location

• Operating Suite
  Level 3

The Hunter New England Bone Bank is a ‘Live Donor’ femoral head bank, licensed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

The primary role of the Bone Bank is to collect, screen, store and distribute donated femoral head bone for transplantation from consenting patients from 10 public and private hospitals within the Hunter New England Local Health District and beyond.

The Bone Bank stores skull flap autografts and sources, stores and supplies musculoskeletal tissue (such as tendons and structural graft) from Tissue Banks across Australia for our Surgeons.​

Location

• Interventional Suite
  Level 3

The Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit provides care to patients requiring surgical management of cardiac and pulmonary disease. This service is provided 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for emergency and trauma conditions in addition to planned elective work.

Our patients receive treatment in the Surgeon’s rooms. We have four consultant surgeons within the unit, supported by registrars and junior medical officers​.

Location

• Ward F3 and Cardiac Intensive Care Unit
  Level 3

The Colorectal Service provides elective surgical and endoscopic management to patients with colorectal diseases, such as Colorectal Cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Our Colorectal Service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency and trauma conditions.

Within the Colorectal Service, we have Consultant Surgeons who are supported by registrars and junior medical officers. Patients can receive treatment in both Surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient clinic at John Hunter Hospital.

​Location

• Ward J3, Level 3

The General Surgical Service provides elective surgical and endoscopic management to patients with abdominal, thyroid, parathyroid diseases and a range of other surgical conditions.

The Acute General Surgical Unit (AGSU) is a 24 hour / 7 days a week service for emergency conditions and trauma, supported by the General and Colorectal Surgeons.

There are 14 consultant surgeons on the unit, supported by registrars and junior medical officers. Patients are seen in surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient clinic.

Location

• ​Wards J3 and H3
  Level 3

The Neurosurgical Service provides elective surgical management to patients with a range of brain, spinal and other neurological conditions. This is a 24 hour / 7 day a week service for emergency conditions and trauma.

There are five consultant surgeons on the unit, supported by registrars and junior medical officers. Patients are seen in surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient clinic.

Location

• ​Ward G3
  Level 3

The Ophthalmology Service provides elective and consultative surgical management for patients with a range of ocular and peri-ocular surgical problems. This service includes coverage for emergency conditions and trauma 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are 12 Consultant surgeons on the unit with support provided by registrars and junior medical officers. Patients are seen in the surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient Clinic at John Hunter Hospital, while the majority of ocular operative work is performed at Belmont Hospital and Kurri Kurri District Hospital.

Location

• Level 3

The Oral Maxillofacial Surgery (OMF) Service provides ​elective and emergency surgical management to patients with a range of facial and intra-oral conditions and diseases. This is a 24 hour / 7 day a week service for emergency conditions and trauma.

There are five consultant surgeons on the unit, supported by registrars and junior medical officers. Patients are seen in surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient clinic.

Location

• Ward H3
  Level 3

The Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) / Oto-rhino-laryngology and Head and Neck Surgery Service provides elective and emergency surgical management for patients with a range of ear, nose and throat problems as well as head and neck cancer surgery.

This is a 24 hour / 7 day a week service for emergency conditions and trauma. There are 10 Consultant surgeons on the unit who are supported by Registrars and Junior Medical Officer​s.

Patient appointments are held in Surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient Clinic.

Location

• ​Ward H3
  Level 3

The Plastics Service provides elective and consultative surgical management for patients with a range of surgical problems. This service does not provide 24/7 coverage for emergency conditions and trauma.

There are three consultant surgeons on the within the Plastics Service, which are supported by registrars and junior medical officers. Patients of the service can be seen in surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient Clinic at John Hunter Hospital.​

Location

• Plastics Service
• Surgical Services​

The Transplant Unit provides surgical management to patients requiring a kidney transplant.

There are two Consultant Surgeons on the unit, supported by Registrars and Junior Medical Officers. Transplant patients are also seen in the Surgical Outpatient Clinic.

Location​

• Level 3

The Vascular Surgery Service provides elective and emergency surgical management to patients with a range of non-cardiac vascular diseases. The service employs both open and endovascular approaches.​

Our patients receive treatment in surgeon’s rooms and in the Surgical Outpatient clinic. We have five consultant surgeons on the unit, who are supported by registrars and junior medical officers.

The Vascular Service is available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for emergency and trauma conditions. ​​​

Location

• Ward F3, Level 3

Dietitians are experts in nutrition. They use up-to-date scientific research to provide practical and easy to understand information to help manage a range of medical conditions. They work with you and your family to optimise your health, nutrition and quality of life.

Eating a balanced diet is vital for good health and wellbeing. The dietitian will help you develop practical and achievable dietary changes taking into account individual lifestyle and eating habits.

Our Nutrition and Dietetics Services include:

• Inpatient services to the wards, incorporating nutrition assessment, dietary intervention and education to prepare for discharge
• Outpatient services for ongoing nutrition support and education following discharge from hospital. In conjunction with specialist outpatient clinics include Cystic Fibrosis, Immunology, Maternity and Gynaecology, Gastroenterology and Renal
• Group education sessions facilitated by a dietitian are available in the areas of weight management and gestational diabetes via referral from a John Hunter Specialist
• Education and research programs including clinical placements for Nutrition and Dietetics students from University of Newcastle and quality improvement activities.

We accept referrals for inpatients of John Hunter Hospital and outpatients who have been referred from a clinical service within John Hunter Hospital.

For more information about meal services while in hospital and the importance of nutrition, please see the ACI Food and Nutrition in NSW Hospitals Factsheet.

For more information on how a Dietitian can help you, please visit the Dietitian Association of Australia website​.

Occupational therapists work with people who have an acute or chronic injury or illness with a focus on assessing a patient’s activities of daily living (E.g. Showering, dressing, toileting and feeding) and matching this to their home environment.

At the John Hunter Hospital, occupational therapists provide assessment and therapy for patients who have difficulty performing activities of daily living due to a current injury or illness. Occupational therapists​ use both standardised and non-standardised assessments to determine a patient’s suitability for discharge. Prescribing equipment and recommending home modifications may also be required during the discharge planning process. Common interventions include:

• ​Pressure injury prevention
• Falls prevention
• Equipment prescription
• Home modification
• Functional retraining
• Cognitive assessment
• Upper limb therapy
• Splinting.

​Referral to external agencies for continued support post discharge may be recommended by the Occupational Therapist. Facilitation of safe and timely discharge to the clients preferred destination is our ultimate goal.

Services are available to all inpatients of John Hunter Hospital and to outpatients who meet the eligibility criteria.

Location

• Allied Health Physical Therapies 
  Level 1, Royal Newcastle Centre ​

The John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service provides care to patients who require an examination or treatment, but who are not required to stay in hospital overnight.

The Outpatient Service is open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.00pm. It is located on Level 2 of the Royal Newcastle Centre.

If you require further information or assistance, please visit our website or call the JHH Outpatient Service Contact Centre on (02) 4922 3912.

The John Hunter Hospital Pharmacy is focused on delivering quality drug treatment for all our patients. Our dedicated staff work side-by-side with doctors, nurses and midwives to ensure the best choice of medicine, the right dose and length of treatment.

Pharmacists at John Hunter offer a wide range of services to patients, families, carers and staff, advising on matters relating to the dispensing, preparation, supply and use of medicines. The hospital pharmacist can also provide important advice about possible side effects and interactions with other medicines or food. Information leaflets are available to help patients and carers understand medicines better and how these can be taken wisely.

Patients attending the outpatient clinics at the hospital may also utilise the services of the hospital pharmacy, which provides access to medicines not normally obtained through community pharmacies. The pharmacy is open for outpatient supply of medicines from 8.45am to 5.30pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and Tuesday from 9.15am to 5.30pm​​.

Location

Level 2

Physiotherapists are responsible for the assessment, treatment and prevention of disorders of human movement following disease or trauma. The primary goal of physiotherapy is the restoration of normal function, or to develop a patient's maximum potential within the limitations of possible function.

In addition to various treatment techniques, physiotherapists offer patients and families education, support and advice to enable the patient to safely manage during their hospital stay and post discharge home.

Physiotherapists accept referrals for post-surgical conditions, respiratory conditions, neurological conditions, acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions and rehabilitation, which can include mobility assessments and prescription of mobility aids.

A referral to the Physiotherapy Outpatient Clinic can be made by a medical practitioner or another allied health professional.

Location

• Level 1, Royal Newcastle Centre Building

Who are we?

The John Hunter Hospital speech pathology department provides service to inpatients and outpatients.

Inpatients: We see patients in the hospital who have difficulty with swallowing, breathing, and communicating.

Outpatients: We see eligible adult patients who have a referral letter from a specialist doctor.

Where are we?

The speech pathology outpatient clinic is NOT located in the Royal Newcastle Centre with most other outpatient clinics.  The John Hunter Hospital speech pathology department is on Level 2 of the John Hunter Hospital.

Directions:

From the bus stop or visitor carparks #2 and #3,

• enter at the main entrance of John Hunter Hospital,
• walk past the Emergency department
• turn left at Grab and Go Go Coffee Shop.
• Follow the hospital’s main corridor for approx. 200m.
• Turn left at the sign “Allied Health Department” (and Children’s Clinics). The sign is opposite the vending machines. It is before ward K2.
• Allied health reception is at the end of the corridor, on your right.

From the Royal Newcastle Centre car park #6,

• walk through the RNC cafe area,
• keep going all the way along the JHH main corridor.
• Turn left at the sign “Allied Health Department” (and Children’s Clinics). The sign is opposite the vending machines.  It is before ward K2
• Allied health reception is at the end of the corridor, on your right.

When are we open?

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday

Contact us:

Allied Health Reception: (02) 4921 3700

Outpatient Appointments

Outpatient services are provided to eligible patients who have a doctor’s referral. John Hunter Hospital speech pathologists see outpatients with:

• Swallowing problems
• Voice problems
• Chronic cough and vocal cord dysfunction (laryngeal hyper-responsiveness)
• Speech/language disorders where more information/tests are needed to aid medical diagnosis
• Laryngectomy

Making an Appointment

Your doctor will send a referral letter. A manager will determine the best service to suit your needs.

If you cannot be seen at JHH, then the manager will let your doctor know where you can be seen.  If you can been seen at JHH, we will send you an appointment letter or email.

If you cannot come to the appointment, please phone reception on 4921 3700 as soon as possible.  You can ask to change the appointment to another day.

Health professionals can visit HealthPathways to view details on some of the conditions that are treated by the John Hunter Hospital speech pathology department - https://hne.healthpathways.org.au/index.htm

_______________________________________________________________________

Outpatient Service FAQs

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Your appointment letter will tell you what you need to bring to the appointment.

Please bring the following with you to any Outpatient appointment:

• Your Medicare or Veterans Affairs Card. Please tell our reception staff if you are not Medicare eligible.
• Any recent reports or test results
• A list of your current medications

How long will I be waiting for an appointment?

There is a high level of demand for speech pathology services at John Hunter Hospital. You may have to wait for a period of time before there is an available appointment.

What happens if my condition gets worse while I am waiting for an appointment?

If you are worried that your condition is getting worse, call the doctor who referred you to speech pathology.

What do I do if I need to change or cancel my appointment?

There is a long waiting list for outpatient appointments. If you can’t attend your appointment, call 4921 3700 as soon as you can. Our reception staff will try to change your appointment to another day/time.

What happens if I do not attend my appointment and do not tell anyone?

If we do not hear from you and you do not turn up to your initial appointment, you will be taken off the wait list. Your referring doctor will get a letter to tell them that you did not attend your appointment. You will not be offered another appointment. It is very important that you call us before your appointment if you can’t come.

What do I do if my personal details change?

If your personal details change, please phone us on 4921 3700.  Keep your postal address, email address and phone number up to date so that we can send you appointment information and SMS reminders.

Where do I park for my appointment?

Please allow extra time for parking before your appointment.  The hospital is very busy and it can take a long time to find a parking space. There are parking fees at JHH.  The fee is based on how long you are parked. It is cheaper for people who have a concession card.

Examples of fees:

• Less than 20 minutes is free.
• $2.50 for 20 minutes to one hour
• $5 for one to two hours
• $10.00 for more than three hours.

Carparks 2 and 3 are the nearest carparks, opposite the hospital’s main entrance. There is a drop-off zone at the main entry to John Hunter Hospital if you are unable to walk far.

What should I expect at a speech pathology appointment?

Please tell our reception staff when you arrive. You will need to complete some questionnaires about your symptoms. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early.

An initial appointment lasts for one hour. Follow up appointments usually last for 30 minutes.

Sometimes minor delays can occur. You will be seen as soon as possible, but cannot ‘jump the queue’ to be seen before another patient.

At your first appointment, the speech pathologist will ask questions about your symptoms. They will complete an assessment and discuss your treatment options.

The speech pathologist will write a letter to your doctor about your results. A copy of the letter will be sent to your GP.

You may need further appointments and exercises to help your condition. The speech pathologist will teach you how to do the exercises. They will check your progress each session and make changes to the exercises as needed.  The number of therapy appointments required will vary.

It is important to practise the exercises between appointments. If you feel you are struggling to do this, please tell your speech pathologist. Your speech pathologist can help you identify other options.

Do I have to pay for speech pathology services at John Hunter Hospital?

If you have an Australian Medicare card, you do not need to pay for speech pathology at John Hunter Hospital.  If you are not eligible for Medicare (eg. if you are an overseas resident), you will be charged for the service ($156 in 2021).  Payment is needed before the appointment. On payment, you will receive a receipt and can then make a claim against your travel insurance (if applicable). Please let our receptionists know if you are not eligible for Medicare in Australia. Tell them when you call to make the appointment.

The John Hunter Hospital Social Work Service provides direct support to patients, families and carers to assist with the impact of illness and treatment. Social work staff work with our nursing and medical staff within our hospital wards and Emergency Department to achieve the best possible outcome for patients.

Our services include assessment, counselling, coordination with community services, bereavement support, crisis intervention, education, advocacy and discharge planning. We also offer assistance with Centrelink reporting, NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), My Aged Care and Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS).

The service operates Monday to Friday and provides an afterhours crisis on call service 7 days per week for urgent matters. If you require social work assistance during your stay, please ask your treating nurse to make a referral. ​

Location

• Level 2

Community and Aged Care Services, Greater Newcastle Sector

We provide group aquatic programs by appointment only, for adults, living in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie or Port Stephens areas.

The pool is located on the grounds of John Hunter Hospital, Rankin Park Campus. The Lodge Building, Lower Ground Floor, 10 Lodge Drive, New Lambton Heights.

Aim of the Hydrotherapy Rehabilitation Program

To improve and maintain the ability to manage everyday life through aquatic exercises. Exercises help with fitness, balance, posture, coordination and muscle strength.

Our group program has been developed to:

• learn a range of pool exercises under the instruction of hydrotherapy staff
• learn correct exercising techniques
• build up to a 40 minute exercise program

How does Hydrotherapy Work?

Due to the buoyancy of the water, hydrotherapy exercise gives people the opportunity to perform exercises they may not normally be able to do on land. This increased buoyancy reduces the load taken through the joints such as the knees and hips. The warmth and hydrostatic pressure of the water also help improve blood flow and reduce muscle spasm.

Referrals:

Medical referral is required from a General Practitioner or Physiotherapist with GP clearance. They can be faxed directly to 4924 5732.

Contact the Hydrotherapy Service:

The Hydrotherapy Team
Locked Bag 1, Hunter Regional Mail Centre 2310
PH: 02 4921 4110

FAX: 02 4924 5732
Email: HNELHD-JHHHydrotherapy@health.nsw.gov.au