Patient Care – Craig Timms Neurosurgeon

Individualised Care

Craig’s approach to patient care is individualised. What may be surgically indicated for two patients with the same problem, may not be appropriate in the context of the individual.

a different approach

Each of us is unique, with varying beliefs, backgrounds, family and work commitments, as well as different underlying health conditions. A one-size-fits-all approach is just not appropriate when it comes to neurosurgery.

Therefore, Craig has a detailed discussion with every patient about the problem and its possible solutions. If surgery is absolutely indicated, Craig will tell you that too – but in most situations, a non-surgical approach is the best option, with surgery remaining the last resort after all conservative measures have failed. With Craig, you can be sure that he will investigate and discuss your options, personal circumstances and commitments to develop a good plan for you.

Help is at Hand

Craig’s practice manager is his wife, Pauline, who has a background in nursing. In fact, they met when they worked together many moons ago!

Like Craig, Pauline is down-to-earth, caring and will go out of her way to assist you in any way she can. Given her nursing background, particularly in Trauma ICU and Emergency at the Alfred, and her knowledge and experience of many health conditions, Pauline is able to identify and make urgent appointments when they are required. Pauline has also completed a law degree which comes in handy when TAC and Workcover patients are struggling in the system. Anything Pauline can do to streamline this process, she will do.

Like Craig, Pauline will provide individualised care and assist those patients who need that little bit of extra help and time navigating the health system, which she knows well, along with Medicare and Health Fund system. Furthermore, since Covid hit Australia and so much patient care and documentation has moved to digital platforms, Pauline is always happy to assist in navigating this as well.

Expert Information

As a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Craig has access to expertly written patient pamphlets, specifically prepared by expert Fellows of The College of Surgeons.

These pamphlets were developed to assist in communication with patients and to provide a tool for obtaining thorough, informed consent from patients.

With the overload of information – and misinformation – available online these days, it’s reassuring to know that Craig operates firmly within the parameters of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons’ guidelines and provides surgical information written and distributed by the College. If you are interested in reading any of these brochures, please let us know.