Welcome to Stirling Central Health Clinic

where we take pride in caring for our community

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MASKS ARE MANDATORY – PLEASE PHONE RECEPTION IF YOU HAVE COLD OR FLU LIKE SYMPTOMS PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT

Our Stirling Location

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Meet Our Team

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Our Medical Services

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Your Comprehensive Medical Centre in the Adelaide Hills

About Stirling Central Health Clinic

Established in 1989 on the tree-lined Druid Avenue in Stirling’s picturesque township, our medical centre serves the Adelaide Hills community. Many of our patients come to us from as close as a ten-minute drive up the South Eastern Freeway.

Our practice strongly focuses on compassion and respect and delivers holistic, patient-centred health care, helping create a healthier and happier community.

We gladly welcome those looking for a new doctor in Adelaide Hills by offering a wide range of health services, including General Practitioners, Specialists, Allied Health Services and the Pathology Collection Centre.

Our Medical Centre in the Adelaide Hills offers:

Women’s Health and Well Being

– Pap smears
– Contraceptive advice
– Antenatal care

Men’s Health and Well Being

– Prostate checks
– STD checks
– Erectile dysfunction

Children’s Health and Well Being

– Childhood immunisations
– Pre-school health checks
– Allergy management

Preventative Health Services

– Flu immunisations
– Skin checks
– Cardiovascular Health

Chronic Disease Management

– GP management plans
– Enhanced primary care
– Diabetes Care

Acute Illness or Injury

– Sutures
– Sporting injuries
– Fracture assessment

Travel Medicine

– Travel advice
– Travel medicine
– Travel vaccinations

Mental Health

– Treatment plans
– Anxiety and Depression
– Drugs & Alcohol

Covid-19 Vaccinations

– AZ, Pfizer
– including children

Our Local Adelaide Hills Doctors and Medical Professionals include: GPs, Specialists and Allied Health Professionals

The ten doctors that make up our friendly and diverse team work together to care for patients’ health and well-being while also pursuing their own clinical interests.

Our specialist doctors in Adelaide Hills include Respiratory and Sleep Physicians, Urologists and Orthopaedic Surgeons. We also have a range of on-site allied health practitioners, including Dietitians, Audiologists, and Speech Pathologists.

All general practitioners (GPs) are qualified to help with general health issues. GPs also have special interests. However, if you have specific health issues you would like to discuss we have the specialists you need.

Let us know when you book, and we’ll ensure you see the right professional.

Local Stirling Doctors Adelaide Hills you can rely on

As a leading medical centre in Stirling, servicing the Adelaide Hills, we are committed to building a healthier and happier community.

Each member of our medical staff is committed to giving each patient the best care possible in a friendly, comfortable, professional, and welcoming environment.

From the moment you make your booking until you have finished your consultation, we’ll make you feel right at home.

We understand that doctor’s appointments can be stressful for many people, so we go out of our way to ensure you feel comfortable.

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A medical centre without the rush

Our medical professionals are here to care for your health. We pride ourselves on providing our patients with a welcoming environment.

Our doctors will not rush you through your visit because they understand you deserve their full attention. Proper care means listening to your concerns and making you feel safe.

The key to delivering our comprehensive medical services is understanding your needs. We ask the right questions and ensure you get the medical care you deserve. No rush, no fuss, and we’ll make your visit as easy as possible.

A medical centre in Adelaide Hills for the whole family

Finding a family doctor you trust isn’t as easy as it sounds. That’s why we’ve worked hard to create an environment where every family member can feel comfortable and confident that they’re getting the care they need.

Our doctors and other medical staff are very good at helping kids, teens, adults, and older people.

We specialise in family medical care and love helping your entire family stay happy and healthy. So whether you need prenatal or antenatal care, children’s health services, or even elderly health care, we’re here to help.

Mental health services

As your preferred medical centre, we understand the need for quality mental health services that are accessible to all. Children, teens, adults, and the elderly are all susceptible to mental health concerns, and we aim to provide quality treatments and referrals for those in need.

Mental health issues don’t discriminate, but we also understand that many people are uncomfortable addressing them. Our doctors are all highly experienced, caring individuals who want you to feel comfortable talking about anything.

Note that some mental health assessments require longer appointments. Please let our staff know when you book so we can schedule your appointment accordingly.

Immunisations and vaccinations Medical Centre

While many people receive immunisations as children, missing some is not uncommon. If you’re concerned about your immunisation status, we’d love to help you update it.

As a caring, compassionate medical centre in Adelaide Hills, we’ll ensure your children get the necessary immunisations in a safe, comfortable environment.

Our team can also help with other vaccinations, such as COVID and flu. If you’re concerned about any particular immunisations or vaccinations, speak to a friendly doctor in Adelaide Hills Stirling Clinic, who can recommend the right course of action for your circumstances.

Travel vaccination services

If you’re planning an overseas trip, it’s crucial to have all your vaccinations up to date. Depending on where you’re travelling, our doctors will recommend particular vaccinations.

We can also advise you on how to keep yourself safe and healthy in other parts of the world. You can also contact us to ensure you have enough of your usual medicines before you leave. Don’t risk getting sick and ruining your holiday.

Speak to your local medical centre today. Please note that some travel vaccinations require boosters. You may need to see us a couple of times before your trip, so ensure you book in advance.

Elderly health care

As we age, we become more susceptible to a range of health concerns, unfortunately. Maintaining good health as you age is crucial to living a long and happy life. Our doctors and other healthcare workers know how to help you with your health needs as you age.

We offer a range of preventative health services to ensure you stay healthy for longer. Plus, we have a strong network of specialists and professionals to refer you to.

Staying on top of your health is easy with regular checkups, and our medical centre in Adelaide Hills is the place to visit.

Adelaide Hills Medical Center With After-hours & emergency support

If you need urgent medical attention outside of regular hours, we encourage you to dial 000 for all emergencies. For other after-hours services, contact us at 08 8370 9777.

We offer appointments at our medical centre in Adelaide Hills from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all general health issues.

Book your appointment with our doctors in Adelaide hills today.

Our practice nurses and office staff help our Stirling doctors and allied health team provide the best care and service possible.

Our Team of GP’s based in Stirling, Adelaide Hiils

Dr Sally Downes

BM, FRACGP
Director and Practice Principal

Full Bio

Dr Sally Downes graduated Bachelor of Medicine in the UK in 1988.

A very experienced GP with a diverse clinical background, Dr Downes holds an interest in Cardiovascular and other Health Prevention Initiatives of the RACGP as a result of past Specialist Physician Training experience. Dr Downes also has post-graduate qualifications in Skin Cancer Medicine, Skin Cancer Surgery, Dermoscopy and Dermatology . She often assist patients with their Travel Medicine needs.

Dr Don Wallis

MBBS

Full Bio

Dr Don Wallis is a University of Adelaide graduate (MBBS) and established the Stirling Clinic as a solo GP in 1989. An extremely experienced medical practitioner in all aspects of general practice, Dr Wallis’ special interest is the examination of the skin by dermatoscopy and the removal of suspicious skin lesions.

Dr Barb Morris

BMBS, FRACGP

Full Bio

Dr Barb Morris graduated in medicine from Flinders University in 1990, attaining her Fellowship of Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in 1995. Dr Morris has a depth of experience in musculoskeletal medicine and is extremely experienced in all aspects of general practice and has a special interest in women’s health.

Dr Sinclair Bode

MBBS, FACNEM

Full Bio

Dr Sinclair Bode graduated MBBS from the University of Adelaide in 1986 and has been with the Stirling Central Health Clinic since 1998. Dr Bode has extensive training in integrative, environmental and nutritional medicine and has a special interest in the treatment of children with autism spectrum disorders from an environmental and nutritional perspective.

Dr Basil Tsakalos

MBBS, DipRACOG

Full Bio

Dr Tsakalos graduated medicine from the University of Adelaide in 1987. Dr Tsakalos has completed post-graduate training in obstetrics and gynaecology and is accredited for insertion and removal of the Implanon contraceptive device.

With a particular interest in children’s health, Dr Tsakalos enjoys all aspects of general practice.

Dr Deb Ireland

MBBS

Full Bio

Dr Ireland graduated medicine at Adelaide University. Her qualifications include a Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and her clinical background includes GP Obstetrics and Family Planning.

Dr Ireland’s special interests are mental health and women’s health and she is accredited to provide shared antenatal care and the insertion/removal of the Implanon.

Dr Grace Finnie

MBBS (Hons), FRACGP, ACEM Cert. Emergency Medicine

Full Bio

Dr Grace Finnie graduated from James Cook University, Queensland in 2015. After graduating, she returned to Adelaide and worked at Modbury Hospital and Lyell McEwin Hospital. Dr Grace Finnie’s particular interests include women’s health, paediatrics and preventive medicine.
She is also doing GP Obstetrics Shared Care.

Dr Cassandra Holt

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

Full Bio

Dr Cassandra Holt graduated from The University of Adelaide in 2018. After graduating, she enjoyed two years working at Modbury Hospital and The Lyell McEwin Hospital where she was able to gain additional training in emergency medicine and cardiology.

Dr Holt’s particular interests include cardiology, men’s health, sports injuries and management of skin lesions.

Dr. Dulmini Silva

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS (Hons))

Full Bio

Dr Dulmini Silva has been working in Sri Lanka for more than 10 years before moving to Australia in 2018.

She enjoys all aspects of general practice, treating patients of every age to provide comprehensive care and optimize their health. Her special interests include Preventative Health and Women’s Health. She enjoys working with children and has completed Diploma in Child Health from Sydney children’s hospital network.

Frequently Asked Questions

All doctors engaged at our Adelaide Hills practice in Stirling are Specialist General Practitioners.

Additionally, Stirling Central Health Clinic has a number of visiting Specialists who conduct appointments from the rooms adjacent to the practice. These are a Respiratory and Sleep Physician, a Urologist, Orthopaedic Surgeon and a Consultant Physician.

Furthermore, in the area of allied health, a Dietitian, Audiologist and Speech Pathologist offer appointments from the adjacent area.

Yes – our practice in the Adelaide Hills has GPs who are Accredited to provide Obstetric Shared Care.

GP Obstetric Shared Care is a care option for low-risk pregnant women who are delivering their baby in a public hospital. It is an arrangement between your GP and a public birthing hospital or birth setting. It allows you to see your GP for most of your pregnancy appointments, which is excellent for continuity of care.

In a medical emergency, patients should call 000 and be transported to a public hospital emergency department.

Urgent medical conditions will be given priority at Stirling Central Health Clinic so it is important that the reception staff are advised of your condition when you ring the practice.

Yes, but it is important to know that the National Home Doctor Service (13SICK) is an after-hours locum service that operates in the metropolitan area only. If you live in the Adelaide Hills, the Mount Barker Hospital operates a 24/7 walk in service.

There are two other options for after-hours services:

o After Hours GP Helpline – speak to a GP after hours on 1800 022 222
o Health Direct – speak to a Registered Nurse 24 Hours on 1800 022 222

Remember that our clinic in the Adelaide Hills at Stirling is open from 7am – 6pm.

Yes – at our clinic in Stirling we have doctors who specialise in Men’s Health.

We encourage men who would like to have a prostate check, skin check, who may be experiencing incontinence or other bladder problems, sexually transmitted infections or erectile dysfunction or hypertension to make an appointment.

Yes – at our clinic in Stirling we have doctors who specialise in Women’s Health.

Our doctors are skilled in the areas of hypertension management, skin checks, contraception and implants such as Implanon, antenatal care, family planning, sexually transmitted infections, Pap smears and other preventative health checks.

Yes – all of our GP’s are trained in mental health and we are here to help. Often, a mental health consultation or counselling consultation can take longer than 15 minutes, so please ask reception to book a longer appointment.

If you have a diagnosable mental health condition, you may qualify for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. If you have a Plan, Medicare will rebate part of the cost of seeing a private psychologist for up to 10 visits in a calendar year. Your GP can let you know whether you qualify for a Plan.

Yes – we have a number of female doctors at the Stirling Central Health Clinic in the Adelaide Hills.

All of our female doctors are highly skilled in the areas of women’s health children’s health, chronic disease management, mental health, acute illness and injury as well as vaccinations.

Yes – our clinic located in the Adelaide Hills in Stirling offers both COVID19 Booster Clinics and Flu Clinics each week. You can book in online for Pfizer Booster, Moderna or Flu Vaccination or by phoning the clinic on 8370 9777.

The latest statistics show that only 38.1% of people in Australia over the age of 65 years have had a COVID-19 booster. This percentage decreases in younger age groups too.

Specifically, people with co-morbidities and older people are encouraged to book in for a booster. Consideration is also advised for adolescents aged 5-17 with complex health needs and significant risk factors.

The Department of Health has stated that 45.9% of people over 65 years across Australia have not had a flu vaccine.

Being up-to-date with your vaccinations is important as we start the winter season.

Our clinic stocks a range of vaccinations that may be needed prior to travelling such as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid and Rabies. However, depending on which country you are visiting and the recommended vaccinations/medicines for that country, doctors at Stirling Central Health Clinic can also provide the relevant prescription (if not in stock in the practice) and subsequently vaccinate you.

We can provide up to date information on current health warnings in certain parts of the world. This may mean taking extra precautions, or in some cases, rethinking your travel plans. We can also give you an idea of what to do before your trip and upon your return home.

The other piece of information you may need relates to carrying medicines overseas. We’ll let you know what you should take with you, especially if you have existing conditions that need to be managed. However, in certain countries you may experience issues at border control, so we’ll give you the information you need to be safe while travelling.

You will receive the full Medicare rebate paid directly into your account because our practice uses Tyro. However, there will out of pocket costs for the doctor’s appointment unless you are covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Additionally, you may be charged treatment room fees for consumables used such as wound care.

If you have trouble paying your accounts, please speak to our reception staff.

Stirling Central Health Clinic in the Adelaide Hills offers bulk billing to those patients covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, patients who hold a valid Pension or healthcare card will be billed at a reduced out of pocket fee.

The reason for this is that successive Federal Governments have failed to ensure that Medicare rebates have kept pace with AWE (Average Weekly Earnings) and CPI (Consumer Price Index) increases both of which have been substantial.

In order for our Clinic to remain financially viable, we have no alternative but to take this step and we seek your understanding of the objective reasons for this; and your ongoing support of us as we continue to provide you with the highest possible quality of healthcare.