Rheumatology

We are a specialist team of rheumatologists who care for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. These health conditions affect the joints, muscles, bones and soft tissues, and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and fatigue. 

Some of the conditions we diagnose and treat include:

• rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis
• systemic lupus erythematosus and other connective tissue diseases
• vasculitis and inflammatory myositis
• crystal arthritis
• sarcoidosis
• IgG4-related diseases
• osteoarthritis that is not managed by GP.

We manage conditions that do not require surgery, but we work closely with orthopaedic surgeons, allied health teams and pain management specialists to provide tailored, comprehensive care. 

Clinical research

Our team conducts both clinical trials and independent research. Our goal is to improve treatment approaches and outcomes for patients. We work with national and international partners on studies and trials, and some patients may have the opportunity to take part in research projects if appropriate. 

We offer a range of services to support diagnosis, treatment and long-term management, including:

• specialist outpatient clinics for initial assessment and ongoing care of rheumatological conditions
• an early arthritis clinic utilising ultrasound for point of care diagnosis
• a combined interstitial lung disease clinic with respiratory medicine
• joint injections and infusions where required
• diagnostic support such as imaging and blood tests if required
• medication management
• education and self-management support
• a rheumatology nurse that provides additional support.

You'll need your medical practitioner to send through a referral to be triaged by the Rheumatology team.

All referrals should be addressed to our Head of Unit, Dr Keith Lim. Health professionals and GPs can find out more about referring patients via our referral guidelines.

Please bring to your appointment your:

• Medicare card
• up-to-date list of medications
• any recent medical records relevant to the referral.

Rheumatology Outpatient Clinics:

Footscray Hospital

Second Floor

160 Gordon Street, Footscray

Hours: Mondays 1.30pm – 5:00pm, Fridays 9:00am – 12:30pm

Sunbury Day Hospital

Macedon Street, Sunbury

Phone: (03) 9057 7900

Hours: Every second Thursday, 9:00am – 12:30pm

Epidural Service:

Footscray Hospital

Day Procedure Unit

160 Gordon Street, Footscray

Hours: Wednesdays, 8am – 11am

Contact

For bookings and enquiries, please contact us via phone or email.
Phone: (03) 0845 6490 (Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm)