The Neurological Council of WA will launch its new Nurse Practitioner-led Headache and Migraine clinic on 1 July — an innovative, community-based health initiative designed to proactively help manage the unique needs of headache patients. Headache disorders, including migraines, are among the most prevalent and disabling neurological conditions globally, with significant impacts on daily functioning, relationships, productivity and quality of life. With high and growing demand, there is a strong need for accessible, timely and cost-effective care.
New Nurse Practitioner-Led Headache & Migraine Clinic
19 June 2025
The clinic aims to complement primary and tertiary care headache and migraine management by leveraging the expertise of Nurse Practitioners, who are highly trained healthcare professionals capable of managing a wide range of medical conditions. The clinic hopes to reduce wait times for patients and provide the timely interventions and care that is crucial for managing acute migraine attacks and preventing chronic headache disorders, particularly in underserved areas. The goal is to improve state-wide patient accessibility and empower patients to take control of their condition, leading to better long-term outcomes, improved quality of life and reduced cost and burden on healthcare systems.
Led by Nurse Practitioner, Adrienna Elliot, a member of International Forum of Headache Nurses, the team will adopt a holistic approach to patient care and work in close collaboration with GPs, neurologists, paediatricians and other treating professionals to:
- Evaluate new patients by documenting and reviewing patient symptoms, functional impairment and medical history.
- Undertake comprehensive neuro-nursing assessments, review and order tests and diagnostic imaging, to determine the type of headache or migraine and identify any underlying conditions.
- Diagnose migraine and headache sub-type including medication overuse headache.
- Educate patients on the nature, triggers and treatment of the disorder and provide tools and guidance for patients to track their symptoms and triggers.
- Develop and implement treatment plans in conjunction with patients that offer a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, including lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, medication adherence and preventive therapies.
- Provide follow-up, review and ongoing support and management for patients with chronic headache and migraines.
- Consult and refer patients to other specialists, such as neurologists, for more complex cases, secondary neurological issues or for specialised treatments.
- Assist with headache and migraine research and translation.
The Nurse Practitioner-led clinic will expand options for headache and migraine management and reduce burden on general practitioners and neurologists by reducing time spent on simple headache disorders, allowing for more efficient use of valuable healthcare resources.
Patients can self-refer or be referred by their health care practitioner. Services are bulk billed through Medicare with no out of pocket costs for patients. Appointments can be made by calling the Neurological Council of WA NeuroCare TeleNurses on 1800 645 771 or completing an online referral form.