Attention New Patients: A/Prof Joanne Sahhar requires your referral to be sent to our office before making your appointment. Once your referral has been assessed by A/Prof Joanne Sahhar, our office will be in contact with you to arrange an appointment.

Please send new patient referrals to email office@malvernhillconsulting.com.au or fax to: 03 9824 6991.

Associate Professor Joanne Sahhar

M.B.B.S.(Hons), F.R.A.C.P

Consultant Rheumatologist

Australian Rheumatology Association Information Sheets https://rheumatology.org.au/For-Patients

A/Prof Sahhar has practiced as a rheumatologist in private practice since 1999 having completed her medical degree at Monash University with honours and her Rheumatology training at Monash Medical Centre and St Vincent’s hospitals in Melbourne.  

In addition to her work in General Rheumatology, she runs the Monash Scleroderma Clinic at Monash Medical Centre Clayton  where she provides specialized care for patients with Scleroderma, conducts research into Scleroderma and teaches rheumatology trainees and medical students.

What will happen when I see A/Prof Sahhar?

A/Prof Sahhar is specially trained to do the detective work necessary to discover the cause of your symptoms. She will usually ask you to explain the history of the problem, perform a physical examination and review your test results. Additional investigations such as blood tests, X-rays and scans may also be needed. Your initial appointment will take 40 minutes.

Information and Advice

Once a diagnosis is made, A/Prof Sahhar will explain the nature of your illness and what you might expect in the future. This is an important step, particularly for illnesses that might affect you over a long period.

Treatment

With an accurate diagnosis and a shared understanding of your illness, you, A/Prof Sahhar and your GP can work together to design a treatment program aimed at managing pain, reducing inflammation and ensuring your quality of life.

Ongoing Management

Depending on the nature of your illness, you may need to see A/Prof Sahhar regularly for ongoing management. Alternatively you may be treated by your GP, with A/Prof Sahhar on hand for specialist advice.

How will my condition be treated?

There are a number of treatment options available including:

• physical therapy
• general supportive care
• drug treatment
• Joint injections
•  Referral  for surgery, if appropriate

A/Prof Sahhar will discuss the best treatment combination for you, depending on the exact nature of your illness and your other individual needs. In managing your illness, she will also work closely with your GP as well as other skilled professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists and dieticians to ensure that you receive the best possible care.

How long will I have to wait to see a rheumatologist?

The waiting time to see a rheumatologist will depend on the seriousness of the problem. In most cases your GP can provide or suggest appropriate treatment until an appointment becomes available in a few weeks.

If your GP makes the assessment that you need to be seen urgently or if there is any change in your condition while you are waiting for an appointment with A/Prof Sahhar, be sure to let your GP know so an earlier appointment can be arranged.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

A referral from your Gp outlining your medical history and test results. When possible, this should be sent or faxed to A/Prof Sahhar  prior to your appointment.

Recent x-rays, scans or other test results.

A list of your current medications including prescription and non- prescription medications.

Consultation Fees:

Consultation charges depend on the length and complexity of each patient.

Pension discounts apply with relevent documentation and medicare rebates are applicable with claim to Medicare. For more information please call 9188 3690 during office hours.