Category Archives: General

Jeans for Genes Day 2026 Thursday 6 August

Our team will be wearing jeans this Thursday to show our support for Jeans for Genes and help raise awareness for children living with genetic diseases and birth defects.

Did you know that 1 in 20 children are born with a genetic disease or birth defect? Funds raised through Jeans for Genes help support vital medical research to develop better treatments and work towards life-changing cures.

If you’d like to support this important cause, every donation—big or small—can make a real difference.

You can learn more or make a donation here:
Jeans for Genes Australia

From all of us at Brook Medical Centre, thank you for helping create a healthier future for children and their families. 💙👖

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Pyjama Day At Brook Medical Centre Friday 24th of July

Pyjama Day at Brook Medical

This July, Brook Medical will be taking part in National Pyjama Day to help raise awareness for children living in out-of-home care. By taking part, we are helping to spread the message that every child deserves someone who believes in them.

National Pyjama Day raises awareness and funds to help match more children in out-of-home care with a dedicated Pyjama Angel mentor, providing learning support, encouragement, and positive role models to help them reach their full potential.

Thank you for supporting this important cause by wearing your pyjamas and helping raise awareness.

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Aus Alert – Monday 27th of July at 2pm

🚨 IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR ALL PATIENTS 🚨

On Monday, 27 July, a national test of Australia’s new AusAlert emergency warning system will be sent to compatible mobile devices across the country.

What to expect:
🔹 Your phone may emit a loud siren-like sound (even if it’s on silent or Do Not Disturb).
🔹 Your device will vibrate.
🔹 A message will appear clearly stating that it is ONLY A TEST.
🔹 No action is required.

💙 We wanted to give everyone a heads-up, especially if you’re attending an appointment with us, have a sleeping baby, are sensitive to loud noises, or may find unexpected alarms distressing.

Please don’t be alarmed if your phone suddenly sounds during your visit—it will be happening to millions of Australians at the same time.

If you know someone who may be worried or confused by the alert, please share this post so they’re aware too.

For more information about the national test, visit the official AusAlert website: AusAlert National Test Information

 

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Lifeblood

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Mobile Donor Centre will be visiting Muswellbrook, giving our community a convenient opportunity to donate blood and help save lives. The mobile donor centre will be located at the PCYC car park on Carl Street. Every donation can make a real difference for patients in need.

To check eligibility, view appointment times, or book your donation, visit Lifeblood’s website.

Please consider rolling up your sleeve and helping support Australia’s blood supply.

Muswellbrook Mobile Donor Centre

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Medicare Bulk Billing Consent Changes – From 1 July 2026

Medicare Bulk Billing Consent Changes – From 1 July 2026

From 1 July 2026, there are changes to the way consent is provided for bulk-billed Medicare services.

For most patients, nothing will change. If you normally pay for your appointment and claim your Medicare rebate yourself, you will continue to do so as usual. These changes only apply if your doctor bulk bills your Medicare service.

What is changing?

The Australian Government has introduced new requirements for obtaining Assignment of Medicare Benefits consent for bulk-billed services.

A 12-month transition period will apply from 1 July 2026, which means verbal consent can still be used while medical practices prepare to introduce digital and paper consent options.

If your doctor bulk bills your consultation, you (or an appropriate person acting on your behalf) may be asked to provide consent before your Medicare claim is submitted. This consent may be completed:

  • electronically (via SMS, email or the HotDoc app)
  • on a Tyro terminal at reception
  • on a paper form
  • verbally during the transition period where appropriate.

What is Assignment of Medicare Benefits?

Assignment of Medicare Benefits means you agree for your Medicare benefit to be paid directly to your doctor as payment for a specific bulk-billed service.

This consent applies only to that individual service or claim. It is not ongoing consent for future appointments.

How do I provide consent?

If your appointment is bulk billed, providing consent is usually quick and straightforward.

Face-to-face appointments

If your doctor bulk bills your consultation, our reception team will guide you through the consent process before your claim is submitted.

Phone or telehealth appointments

If your doctor bulk bills your consultation, you may receive a consent request after your appointment via:

  • the HotDoc app
  • SMS
  • email.

Please complete the request as soon as possible so we can process your Medicare claim promptly.

What if I don’t use HotDoc, SMS or email?

If you do not have a mobile phone or email address, or you are unable to complete the electronic consent, please let our reception team know.

During the transition period, verbal consent may still be available. If this is not suitable, we will arrange another way for you to complete the consent.

Can someone else provide consent for me?

Yes. In some circumstances, an appropriate person may provide consent on your behalf. This may include:

  • a parent or guardian
  • a carer
  • someone with Power of Attorney
  • another person legally or appropriately responsible for your care.

What if I don’t agree to assign my Medicare benefit?

If your doctor intends to bulk bill your consultation and you choose not to assign your Medicare benefit, the consultation cannot be bulk billed.

Instead, you will be privately billed and provided with an invoice so you can claim your Medicare rebate directly from Services Australia.

What do I need to do?

For privately billed appointments, no action is required.

If your bulk-billed phone or telehealth consultation requires consent, please complete any consent request sent to you via SMS, email or the HotDoc app.

We also recommend ensuring your mobile number and email address are up to date so we can send consent requests and other important appointment information when required.

If you have any questions or need assistance completing your consent, please contact Brook Medical Centre on (02) 6543 1222.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

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International Joke Day

🎉 Happy International Joke Day! 😄

Here’s a doctor-approved joke to brighten your day:

Patient: “Doctor, I think I’m invisible.”
Doctor: “Who said that?” 👀

A little laughter can be great medicine (just not a substitute for the real thing! 😉).

We hope this brings a smile to your day. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and laughter-filled International Joke Day! 💙

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Dry July

 

 

 

Dry July is a great opportunity to take a break from alcohol and focus on your health and wellbeing. Whether you’re participating for the full month or simply cutting back, even a short break can have benefits such as improved sleep, increased energy, better concentration, and overall wellbeing.

Many Australians also take part to raise funds for people affected by cancer, helping provide support services when they’re needed most.

If you’re thinking about making positive changes to your health, July is a great time to start. Small changes can make a big difference.

Need support with your health goals? Our team is here to help. Speak with your GP about healthy lifestyle changes, alcohol consumption, sleep, nutrition, and wellbeing.

 

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Annual Giving Day | Red Apple Day – Wednesday 17th of June

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, can affect any part of the colon or rectum. It may also be referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where the cancer begins. Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, but early detection through regular screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Wednesday 17th of June is Red Apple Day, Brook Medical Centre is helping raise awareness about bowel cancer prevention, screening, and the importance of early detection. The apple symbol used in bowel cancer awareness represents the message that detecting problems early can prevent serious illness and improve long-term health outcomes. Just as damage to an apple can be treated before it spreads further, bowel cancer found in its early stages is often highly treatable. Apples also serve as a reminder of the importance of a healthy diet, including fibre-rich foods that support bowel health.

Common symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or persistent bloating. In some cases, bowel cancer may develop without noticeable symptoms, which is why routine screening is so important, particularly for people aged 45 and over or those with a family history of the disease.

At Brook Medical Centre, we encourage patients to speak with their doctor about bowel cancer screening, risk factors, and any ongoing digestive symptoms. Early diagnosis can save lives, and our team is here to provide support, guidance, and appropriate referrals when needed.

With a referral, Our General Surgeon Dr Clifton Washaya and our Surgeon Dr Sanjay Verma who can provide colonoscopy procedures when required. Colonoscopies are performed at Muswellbrook Hospital, ensuring patients have access to local specialist care and further investigation if needed. 

Call us on 65431222 to book an appointment for a check up

 

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Newsletter – June – July 2026

Arthritis and Joint Pain management

Arthritis and joint pain are common conditions that can affect people of all ages, particularly during the colder winter months. Joint stiffness, swelling and discomfort may make everyday activities more challenging, but there are several ways to help manage symptoms and maintain mobility.

 

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Keep warm while reducing the bills

As temperatures drop during winter, keeping warm can sometimes lead to higher household expenses. Fortunately, there are simple ways to stay comfortable while also helping reduce energy costs

 

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Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that causes inflammation in the lungs, often leading to coughing, fever, chest pain and difficulty breathing. It can affect people of all ages, but young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions are at higher risk of complications.

 

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A.I. and Medicine

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the healthcare industry and changing the way many medical conditions are diagnosed, treated and managed. AI refers to computer systems that can analyse large amounts of information, recognise patterns and assist healthcare
professionals in making decisions more efficiently and accurately.

 

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Asthma in Winter

Winter can be a challenging time for people living with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Cold air, increased exposure to viruses and spending more time indoors can all contribute to flare-ups of asthma symptoms and respiratory infections.

 

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CHICKEN & VEGETABLE POT PIE

A hearty and comforting winter meal, this Chicken & Vegetable Pot Pie is packed with tender
chicken, creamy sauce and colourful vegetables, topped with flaky golden pastry..

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