The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) is a leading tertiary referral centre in Queensland, renowned for its comprehensive neurology services. The Neurology Department at RBWH specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of neurological disorders, offering expert care to patients with both common and rare nervous system conditions.
Scope of Neurology Services at RBWH
RBWH’s Neurology Department provides tertiary and complex care for neurological diseases including:
- Stroke: The hospital features a dedicated 10-bed stroke unit equipped with multidisciplinary nursing and allied health teams. Advanced stroke interventions such as thrombolysis and endovascular clot retrieval are available, ensuring rapid and effective treatment.
- Epilepsy: The Metro North Comprehensive Epilepsy Surgical Program manages patients with refractory epilepsy, including assessment for neurosurgery. The program has specialized video EEG-monitoring beds and a neurophysiology team providing EEG, EMG, nerve conduction studies, and autonomic neurophysiology services.
- Motor Neurone Disease (MND): RBWH collaborates with other Queensland hospitals to offer specialized care for MND patients, focusing on multidisciplinary management.
- Movement Disorders: The department’s Movement Disorders Team provides therapies including pump treatments for Parkinson’s disease and botulinum toxin injections for dystonia.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A dedicated MS team offers the full range of therapies, including infusion treatments, coordinated with the Internal Medicine Day Therapy Unit.
- Rare Neurological Conditions: RBWH hosts Queensland’s only Huntington’s Disease and Friedreich’s Ataxia services, providing specialized clinics and support.
Multidisciplinary and Specialized Clinics
The Neurology Department operates various outpatient clinics tailored to specific neurological conditions, such as:
- Autonomic disorders
- Neuromuscular diseases
- Cognitive disorders and headaches
- Neuroimmunology
- Neurodegenerative diseases
These clinics provide focused assessment, treatment, and ongoing management by multidisciplinary teams.
Research and Education
RBWH Neurology is closely affiliated with the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine and plays a significant role in training medical students, residents, and registrars. The department is also involved in cutting-edge research, with several PhD scholars conducting studies aimed at advancing neurological care.
Accessing Neurology Services
Patients are typically referred by their GP or specialist. Referrals are managed through Metro North’s Central Patient Intake Service. Upon referral, patients receive confirmation and appointment details. For urgent neurological concerns, patients should seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Medicare card and private health insurance details (if applicable)
- Current medications and relevant medical reports
- Any previous imaging or test results
- Assistive devices such as glasses, hearing aids, or mobility aids
- Appointment letter and referral documentation
Contact Details
- Neurology Department, RBWH
Location: Ground floor, Main Building, RBWH
Phone: (07) 3646 8111 (main hospital line)
GP and Specialist Referral Hotline: 1300 364 938
Why Choose RBWH Neurology?
RBWH’s Neurology Department offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for a broad spectrum of neurological disorders. With specialized clinics, advanced diagnostic facilities, and a multidisciplinary approach, patients receive personalized treatment plans aimed at improving quality of life. The department’s integration with research and education ensures that care is informed by the latest scientific advances.
Summary
The Neurology Department at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital is a vital resource for Queenslanders facing neurological challenges. From stroke and epilepsy to rare genetic disorders, RBWH provides expert diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support in a compassionate and multidisciplinary setting.