About the Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic
What is the STARS Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic?
The STARS Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic is an alternative pathway of care to provide patients faster access to specialist outpatient care. In this service, an Accredited Practising Dietitian will be your first point of contact for the assessment and management of functional gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain and reflux.
How will this service benefit me?
Dietitians play an important role in the management of functional gut disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Our Dietitians will complete a comprehensive assessment and develop a tailored management plan to meet your needs. Patients who receive dietary care for IBS report reduced gut symptoms and improved quality of life. Therefore, many do not require further medical investigations or treatment.
The STARS Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic is a safe and effective service for the management of functional gut conditions, however if your dietitian identifies any concerning clinical features your care will be expedited to a gastroenterologist. This Dietitian led service has been evaluated and shown to significantly reduce patient waiting times for care and achieve positive patient outcomes. Our patients report a high degree of satisfaction with the service.
Am I eligible for a referral to the STARS Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic?
Suitable GP referrals are diverted from Gastroenterology wait-lists to see the Dietitian sooner than they might see a specialist. If your referral is suitable for the Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic, you will receive a phone call and/or a text message offering you an appointment. Most patients will see the Dietitian 2-3 times before being discharged back to their GP upon improvement or resolution of their symptoms.
Currently, patients residing in the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital catchment, the Caboolture Hospital catchment, West Moreton Health Service and Wide Bay Health Service, who meet the referral criteria, are able to have their care diverted to the STARS Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic.