Lakes DHB Neurology

Public Service, Neurology

Description

Lakes DHB Neurology is a specialist service provided within Internal Medicine.

We are a small team providing specialist medical support for neurology inpatients as well as regular outpatient clinics run by the visiting Neurology team from Waikato DHB.

We are closely supported by the Clinical Physiology team who perform all neurological diagnostic tests.

Where to find us: see the Rotorua Hospital map here.

What is Neurology?
Neurology is the study of the Nervous System (brain, spinal cord and nerves), how it controls various parts of the body and the diseases and disorders that may affect it.

Referral Expectations

Your GP will refer you to see a neurologist if they think you have a problem that involves the nervous system and that needs specialist help in diagnosing or treating that condition.

Waiting times for clinics can be up to 6 months depending on the urgency of your condition. This is assessed from the letter or phone call we receive from your GP. Before coming to our clinic you may be asked to undergo some tests or these tests will be arranged after your appointment with the neurologist.

A history of your symptoms will be taken as well as a review of any medications you are on (so please bring these with you). The doctor may also review any old notes and previous problems you have had.

You will then be examined which may include a general examination as well as an examination of the nervous system.

You may also be referred to a physiotherapist, or occupational therapist. In some cases you may require admission to hospital for treatment or testing.

Charges

New Zealand citizens or those who have obtained permanent residence are entitled to publicly funded healthcare.

Non-residents may be required to pay for their healthcare.

Click here to read more about eligibility for funded care at Lakes DHB.

Common Conditions

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a condition where people have seizures or ‘fits’. Seizures may present in many forms but are due to bursts of electrical activity within the brain. The problem can be with the electricity of the brain on its own or due to some underlying structural lesion of the brain.… More
Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the brain characterised by shaking (tremor), slowing of movement and difficulty with walking and coordination.… More
Headaches/Migraines

Most headaches are not due to significant underlying problems but you may be referred if your GP is worried about the nature of your headaches or you are having difficulty controlling them with standard treatment.… More
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease involving the brain and spinal cord. It occurs over time in multiple sites in these two areas of the nervous system.… More
Motor Neurone Disease (MND)

This refers to a group of progressive disorders where there is destruction of motor neurones (the nerves that control voluntary muscle activity such as speaking, walking, breathing, and swallowing.) Symptoms include: gradual weakening, shrinking of muscles and uncontrollable twitching of the muscles. Sensation, memory and personality are not affected.… More