Areas of Expertise

Dr Mousa provides expert assessment and clinical input in areas including:

Get to Know Dr Mousa

We asked Dr Mousa a few questions to get to know the person behind the profession:

Connect with Dr Gamel Mousa

To book an appointment with Dr Gamel Mousa, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

Dr Gamel Mousa’s CV Extract

This is a short extract of 28/05/2025. For Dr Mousa’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Dr Gamal Mousa  appeared first on Red Health.

Psychiatrist

Virtual

• DR JOANNE BARKLA – 19 May, 26 May, 02 Jun
• DR SMITHA BHADURI – 13 Mar, 08 May, 12 Jun
• DR ADAM BURGESS – 23 Apr, 07 May, 04 Jun
• DR ALICE CHANG – 30 Apr, 12 May, 10 Jun
• DR KAREN CHAU – 26 May, 02 Jun, 21 Jul
• DR ASHWANI GARG – 14 May, 04 Jun, 02 Jul
• DR DEEPAK GARG – 27 Apr, 25 May, 22 Jun
• DR SCOTT HALL – 06 Jul, 03 Aug, 28 Sep
• DR SHEROL HANNA – 03 Apr
• DR NICHOLAS JETNIKOFF – 12 May, 18 May, 03 Jun
• DR CLAIRE KING – 18 Mar, 22 Apr, 06 May
• DR DAVID KUTLACA – 08 May, 11 Jun, 14 Aug
• DR HANNAH LAKE – 24 Mar, 26 May, 16 Jun
• DR DAVID LIEN – 27 May, 10 Jun, 16 Jul
• DR MICHAEL LIKELY – 20 Aug, 24 Sep, 15 Oct
• DR TREVOR LOTZ – 27 Mar, 22 Apr, 27 May
• DR MARY-ELLEN O’HARE – 27 May, 03 Jun, 16 Jun
• DR REAGAN O’NEILL – 19 Mar, 16 Apr, 14 May
• DR MUKUND RAO – 18 Mar, 22 Apr, 20 May
• DR AMITAVA SARKAR – 13 Mar, 15 Apr, 01 May
• DR TARUN SEHGAL – 09 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun
• DR TEJPAL SINGH – 31 Mar, 07 Apr, 19 May
• DR RAJIV SIOTIA – 23 Mar, 11 May, 22 Jun
• DR JATHEESH VALAPPIL – 11 Jun, 25 Jun

BRISBANE

• DR ADAM BURGESS – 23 Apr, 21 May, 04 Jun
• DR ALICE CHANG – 12 Jun, 10 Jul, 14 Aug
• DR KAREN CHAU – 12 May, 02 Jun, 14 Jul
• DR ASHWANI GARG – 14 May, 11 Jun, 09 Jul
• DR TARUN SEHGAL – 09 Apr, 07 May, 18 Jun
• DR JATHEESH VALAPPIL – 11 Jun, 25 Jun

GOLD COAST

• DR DEEPAK GARG – 27 Apr, 25 May, 22 Jun
• DR TREVOR LOTZ – 27 Mar, 22 Apr, 27 May

HOBART

• DR SCOTT HALL – 15 May, 19 Aug, 21 Aug
• DR DAVID KUTLACA – 08 May, 12 Jun, 12 Aug
• DR HANNAH LAKE – 24 Mar, 26 May, 30 Jun
• DR REAGAN O’NEILL – 19 Mar, 02 Apr, 21 May
• DR RAJIV SIOTIA – 07 May, 08 May

MELBOURNE

• DR MUKUND RAO – 18 Mar, 22 Apr, 20 May

NORTH TAS

• DR DAVID LIEN – 25 Jun

NORTHERN QLD

Virtual

• DR MARY-ELLEN O’HARE – 27 May, 03 Jun, 08 Jun

Orthopaedic Surgeon

• DR CHRISTOPHER BELL – 02 Apr, 14 May, 30 Jun
• A/PROF PAUL HARVIE – 13 Apr, 14 May, 11 Jun
• DR BRUCE LOW – 30 Apr, 25 May, 04 Jun
• DR LUKE MILLER – 24 Apr, 22 May, 19 Jun
• DR SHALINDER SADIQ – 15 Apr, 27 May, 03 Jun
• DR ANUBHAV SATHU – 18 Jun, 13 Jul, 10 Aug
• DR PRAVEEN VIJAYSEGARAN – 10 Apr, 18 May, 19 Jun
• DR ADAM WATSON – 30 Mar, 25 May, 29 Jun
• DR LAHANN WIJENAYAKE – 13 Jul

BRISBANE

• DR JOHN ALBIETZ – 30 Jul, 27 Aug, 24 Sep
• DR CHRISTOPHER BELL – 30 Apr, 21 May, 02 Jun
• DR PETER JOHNSTONE – 12 May, 09 Jun, 07 Jul
• DR ALI KALHOR – 06 May, 27 May, 24 Jun
• DR JOHN MCNICHOLL – 25 Mar, 15 Apr, 20 May
• DR ADAM PARR – 04 Aug, 29 Sep, 27 Oct
• DR ANUBHAV SATHU – 15 Jun, 16 Jul, 10 Aug
• DR PRAVEEN VIJAYSEGARAN – 10 Apr, 22 May, 19 Jun
• DR LAHANN WIJENAYAKE – 02 Apr, 13 Jul
• DR LEO ZELLER – 23 Apr, 18 Jun, 16 Jul

GOLD COAST

• DR ALI KALHOR – 13 Apr, 11 May, 08 Jun

HOBART

• A/PROF PAUL HARVIE – 13 Apr, 25 May, 08 Jun
• DR SHALINDER SADIQ – 15 Apr, 06 May, 11 Jun
• DR ADAM WATSON – 30 Mar, 18 May, 22 Jun

IPSWICH

• DR ANGUS MOXON – 28 May, 23 Jul, 20 Aug

NORTH TAS

• A/PROF PAUL HARVIE – 27 Apr, 18 May, 13 Jul

NORTHERN QLD

• DR CHRISTOPHER BELL – 12 Jun
• DR WILLIAM BRYCESON – 24 Apr, 15 May, 19 Jun
• DR BRUCE LOW – 30 Apr, 25 May, 30 Jun
• DR LEO ZELLER – 13 May

WESTERN QLD

• DR LUKE MILLER – 24 Apr, 22 May, 19 Jun
• DR LEO ZELLER – 15 May, 12 Jun, 07 Aug

All other specialties

Clinical Neuropsychologist

BRISBANE

• MS NICOLE SKEA – 13 Apr, 11 May, 15 Jun

MELBOURNE

• DR ROBERT BOURKE – 27 Mar, 24 Apr, 29 May

Clinical Neuropsychologist, Clinical Psychologist

BRISBANE

• MS MICHELE HUNTER – 13 Mar, 15 May, 14 Aug

Clinical Neuropsychologist, Neuropsychologist

HOBART

• DR SIGRID DENEHEY – 13 Mar, 10 Apr, 22 May

Clinical Psychologist

Virtual

• DR GRANT BLAKE – 01 Jun, 06 Jul, 03 Aug

WESTERN QLD

• DR GRANT BLAKE – 01 Jun, 06 Jul, 03 Aug

ENT

Virtual

• DR SHARON KELLY – 23 Jun, 09 Jul, 06 Aug

BRISBANE

• DR SHARON KELLY – 23 Jun, 21 Jul, 18 Aug

HOBART

• DR SHARON KELLY – 20 Mar, 23 Mar, 25 May

General Surgeon

Virtual

• DR GAMAL MOUSA – 27 Mar, 24 Apr, 29 May

BRISBANE

• DR DAVID WILKINSON – 28 Apr, 26 May, 23 Jun

NORTHERN QLD

• DR GAMAL MOUSA – 27 Mar, 24 Apr, 29 May

General Surgeon, Colorectal Surgeon

Virtual

• DR MICHAEL MAR FAN – 08 Apr, 20 May, 03 Jun

BRISBANE

• DR MICHAEL MAR FAN – 08 Apr, 20 May, 03 Jun

Neurologist

Virtual

• DR BALAJI KALBAND – 20 Mar, 16 Apr, 15 May
• A/PROF ARMAN SABET – 12 Jun, 10 Jul, 14 Aug

BRISBANE

• A/PROF ARMAN SABET – 27 Mar

GOLD COAST

• A/PROF ARMAN SABET – 12 Jun, 10 Jul, 14 Aug

Neuropsychologist

HOBART

• MS CAITLIN FOLEY – 20 Mar, 17 Apr, 29 May

Neuropsychologist, Clinical Neuropsychologist

SUNSHINE COAST

• DR SIMONE SHAW – 20 Apr, 25 May, 27 Jul

Neurosurgeon

Virtual

• DR ALI ALAVI – 27 Mar, 24 Apr, 08 May
• DR PETER YEE CHIUNG GAN – 13 Apr, 04 May, 15 Jun
• DR DAVID JOHNSON – 27 Apr, 11 May, 01 Jun

BRISBANE

• DR ALI ALAVI – 08 May, 05 Jun, 31 Jul
• DR DAVID JOHNSON – 27 Apr, 11 May, 01 Jun

HOBART

• DR ALI ALAVI – 22 Apr, 18 May, 15 Jun

NORTH WEST TAS

• DR ALI ALAVI – 07 Oct

Occupational Physician

Virtual

• DR JACK DALE – 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May
• DR GARY DAVISON – 23 Mar, 30 Mar, 02 Apr
• DR JANE MUIR – 19 Mar, 29 Apr, 29 May
• DR STEPHANIE WAN – 26 Mar, 30 Apr, 21 May

BRISBANE

• DR JACK DALE – 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May
• DR HELENA HURST – 16 Mar, 20 Apr, 18 May
• DR KALESH SEEVNARAIN – 23 Apr, 21 May, 23 Jun
• DR STEPHANIE WAN – 26 Mar, 30 Apr, 14 May
• DR CLARE WOOD – 16 Mar, 20 Apr, 01 May

HOBART

• DR JACK DALE – 01 Jun, 01 Jul, 26 Aug
• DR GARY DAVISON – 23 Mar, 24 Mar, 20 Apr
• DR RAJIB GHOSH – 31 Mar
• DR JANE MUIR – 16 Apr, 14 May, 12 Jun

NORTH TAS

• DR JACK DALE – 31 Jul, 28 Aug, 25 Sep
• DR JANE MUIR – 27 May, 28 May

SYDNEY

• DR JANE MUIR – 19 Mar, 08 Apr, 11 May

Occupational Therapist

Virtual

• MS MADALEEN KROGH – 26 Mar, 29 Apr, 18 May
• MR NATHAN MOBLEY-GUAZZO – 26 Mar, 24 Apr, 08 May

BRISBANE

• MS MADALEEN KROGH – 27 Mar, 10 Apr, 21 May
• MR NATHAN MOBLEY-GUAZZO – 19 Mar

Pain Physician, Neurosurgeon

Virtual

• DR ANANTHABABU SADASIVAN – 20 Apr

HOBART

• DR ANANTHABABU SADASIVAN – 28 May, 20 Jul, 14 Sep

NORTH TAS

• DR ANANTHABABU SADASIVAN – 22 Jun, 17 Aug, 12 Oct

Plastic Surgeon And Reconstructive Surgeon

Virtual

• DR DAMON THOMAS – 28 Apr, 12 May, 16 Jun

BRISBANE

• DR PAUL BELT – 21 Apr, 05 May, 09 Jun

MELBOURNE

• DR DAMON THOMAS – 28 Apr, 26 May, 24 Jun

Psychologist, Clinical Neuropsychologist

GOLD COAST

• MS NICOLE PRENDERGAST – 06 Apr, 01 Jun, 03 Aug

Rehabilitation Physician

Virtual

• DR SABA ASIF – 25 Mar, 01 Apr, 27 May
• DR VAIDYA BALA – 07 Apr, 19 May, 02 Jun
• DR PEI HUANG – 24 Apr, 22 May, 19 Jun

BRISBANE

• DR PEI HUANG – 08 May, 05 Jun, 17 Jul

Respiratory Physician, Sleep Physician

Virtual

• DR NIALL CAIN – 25 Mar, 15 Apr, 27 May

Rheumatologist

Virtual

• DR PHILLIP VECCHIO – 24 Mar, 07 Apr, 12 May

BRISBANE

• DR PHILLIP VECCHIO – 24 Mar, 14 Apr, 12 May

The post March IME Availability appeared first on Red Health.

Areas of Expertise

Dr Bourke provides expert assessment and clinical input in areas including:

Get to Know Dr Bourke

We asked Dr Bourke a few questions to get to know the person behind the profession:

Connect with Dr Robert Bourke

To book an appointment with Dr Robert Bourke, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

Dr Robert Bourke’s CV Extract

This is a short extract of 28/05/2025. For Dr Bourke’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Dr Robert Bourke  appeared first on Red Health.

We are pleased to introduce Dr Sherol Hanna, Consultant Psychiatrist, as the newest addition to our Referral Network. With a passion for holistic, patient-centred care and extensive experience across both inpatient and outpatient settings, Dr Hanna brings deep clinical insight and a warm, compassionate approach to her practice.

Professional Background

Dr Hanna’s journey into psychiatry began after her internship, when a locum placement confirmed her calling to the field. Since then, she has built a rich career working across diverse clinical populations and settings. She has held consultant roles in private practice at Epworth Clinic and The Melbourne Clinic, as well as serving as a Consultation Liaison Psychiatrist at Brunswick Private Hospital and John Fawkner Private Hospital.

Her locum work has also taken her across Australia, from youth inpatient units at Dandenong Hospital to regional services at Mildura Base Hospital. Earlier in her career, Dr Hanna trained extensively as an Advanced Trainee and Psychiatry Registrar, gaining experience in old age psychiatry, eating disorders, homelessness outreach, and acute inpatient care.

Dr Hanna offers limited online consultations. You can check her availability through our Red Health Online (RHO) platform or by contacting our Client Experience team.

Areas of Expertise

Dr Hanna provides expert assessment and clinical input in areas including:

Get to Know Dr Hanna

We asked Dr Hanna a few questions to get to know the person behind the profession:

Connect with Dr Sherol Hanna

To book an appointment with Dr Sherol Hanna, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

Dr Sherol Hanna’s CV Extract

This is a short extract of 28/05/2025. For Dr Hanna’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Dr Sherol Hanna appeared first on Red Health.

We are pleased to introduce Ms Nicole Skea, Clinical Neuropsychologist, as the newest addition to our Referral Network. With a genuine passion for people, deep clinical insight, and a lived understanding of patient-centred care, Ms Skea brings a compassionate and evidence-based approach to neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation.

Professional Background

Ms Skea’s journey into neuropsychology was sparked during her undergraduate studies, where early exposure to the discipline ignited a fascination with the complex relationship between the brain and behaviour. Her love for connecting with people, paired with the structured, evidence-informed nature of neuropsychology, cemented her career path.

Over the years, she has worked extensively across diverse clinical populations and settings, from mild cognitive concerns to severe acquired brain injuries. Her work is guided by precision, empathy, and a commitment to delivering assessments and reports that are timely, accessible, and tailored to each individual’s needs.

Ms Skea offers limited face-to-face consultations in Brisbane. You can check her availability through our Red Health Online (RHO) platform or by contacting our Client Experience team.

Areas of Expertise

Ms Skea provides expert assessment and clinical input in areas including:

• Traumatic brain injury and stroke
• Cognitive rehabilitation
• Memory and attention difficulties
• Functional assessments and diagnostic clarification
• Medico-legal reporting and capacity assessments
  

Her person-first philosophy is grounded in a belief that well-executed neuropsychological assessments can provide clarity, confidence, and direction for both clients and their broader care teams.

Notable Achievements

• Extensive experience in cognitive rehabilitation for severe traumatic brain injuries
• Uses innovative, tech-based strategies to support clients’ independence and daily functioning

Get to Know Ms Skea

We asked Ms Skea a few questions to get to know the person behind the profession:

Connect with Ms Skea

To book an appointment with Ms Nicole Skea, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

Ms Nicole Skea’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, of 28/05/2025. For Ms Skea’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Ms Nicole Skea appeared first on Red Health.

We are thrilled to welcome A/Prof Paul Harvie, Orthopaedic Surgeon, to our growing network of specialists. Known for his pragmatic, thoughtful approach and his deep experience across surgical and academic settings, A/Prof Harvie brings a unique blend of technical precision, lived clinical insight, and genuine humanity to the field of orthopaedics.

Professional Background

A/Prof Harvie’s path into orthopaedics wasn’t a straight one, but that’s part of what makes his perspective so valuable. Initially pursuing cardiac surgery, his early training took him from Oxford to the prestigious Royal Brompton Hospital in London. However, a week into the role, he realised his true calling lay elsewhere: in orthopaedic surgery.

As cardiac surgery positions became increasingly scarce, A/Prof Harvie moved into orthopaedics with the support of his mentors and went on to complete several years of research at Oxford before fully committing to the specialty. Today, his practice is characterised by both a surgeon’s precision and an engineer’s analytical mind, backed by the broad foundation of his original engineering degree. You can check his availability through our Red Health Online (RHO) platform or by contacting our Client Experience team.

Areas of Expertise

A/Prof Harvie brings expert clinical and surgical input across:

• Complex orthopaedic trauma
• Joint reconstruction and arthroplasty
• Functional musculoskeletal assessments
• Post-injury rehabilitation planning
• Academic and clinical mentoring

His deep understanding of both surgical practice and systemic healthcare challenges makes him an invaluable contributor to patient outcomes and interdisciplinary care teams

Notable Achievements

• Transitioned from engineering to medicine, entering medical school at age 26
• Completed surgical training in leading UK centres including Oxford and London
• Brings a research-informed, outcome-driven focus to clinical orthopaedics

Get to Know A/Prof Harvie

We sat down with A/Prof Harvie to explore the person behind the professional:

Q1: Why Orthopaedic Surgery?
“Honestly, it wasn’t my first choice—I originally wanted to be a cardiac surgeon. But after starting training at the Royal Brompton, I realised it just wasn’t for me. I went back to my mentors in Oxford, and they were incredibly supportive. The timing was a blessing, really—within a few years, many cardiac trainees were told there were no jobs available. Switching to orthopaedics opened up a fulfilling path I might never have found otherwise.”

Q2: Career Highlight?
“Getting into medical school at 26 after an engineering degree. It took me a while, but that journey gave me a wider lens than some others in the field. The crossover between analytical problem-solving and hands-on clinical care is where I’ve found my sweet spot.”

Q3: What do you enjoy outside of work?
“I go fishing. My dad used to go fishing, so I used to go with him when I was young. I don’t keep anything at all—put most back. People still say, “No, you’re still hurting the fish.” And my wife always wants me to keep the fish that I catch, but I think I’ve kept maybe five fish in ten years.

We’ve got some great scenery down here, and some of the fishing is a challenge. You target a species—for example, we’ve got kingfish. It took me seven years and two weeks before I caught my first one, and I actually lost one trying to get it in the net..”

Q4: Dream Dinner Guest?
“John McEnroe. Because I grew up watching him play, and I thought he was an absolute legend. He changed the sport. He challenged authority, which I sometimes do on occasion, and he could back most of what he said with expertise. And he’s still on TV, and when you hear him talk, people respect what he says. He’s not afraid to tell the truth or offend. He doesn’t pull punches. And he’s got a few other facets—he plays guitar in a rock band. I’ve always found him really interesting to listen to and talk to. No pretensions about himself. Just a very interesting person.”

Bonus Questions

Pineapple on pizza?
“I’ll eat anything, but I don’t think I’ve ever bought a pizza with pineapple on it. I’m more of a seafood person. Like, if my wife says she’s going out with the girls, I go, “Great!” Not because she’s gone, but because I can cook what I want— Seafood pizza with prawn, chilli, garlic—lots of chilli. I’m happy.

But if someone gave me a pizza with pineapple on it, I’d eat it. It just wouldn’t be my first choice.”

Cats or dogs?
“I’ve always had cats—my first lived to 19. But since moving to Australia, we haven’t had pets. We travel a lot, and cats aren’t quite as popular here.”

Summer or winter?
“Summer, no question. I was a teenage lifeguard, love the sea, and Tassie’s weather suits me. We head to Port Douglas most years, and I’ve got some legendary tan lines to prove it!”

Connect with A/Prof Harvie

To book an appointment with A/Prof Harvie, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

A/Prof Paul Harvie’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, Oct 22. For A/Prof Harvie’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to A/Prof Paul Harvie appeared first on Red Health.

We are pleased to introduce Dr Jane Muir, Occupational and Environmental Physician (OEP), as a valued member of our Referral Network. With a foundation in emergency services and a passion for preventative care, Dr Muir brings a diverse and highly specialised skillset to our occupational medicine offering.

Professional Background

Dr Muir’s career in occupational and environmental medicine began in a unique setting, providing emergency health services to workers on remote oil rigs. This experience ignited her interest in the broad scope of occupational medicine, which spans public health, toxicology, preventative medicine, policy advocacy, and workplace health and safety.

Dr Muir holds Fellowship qualifications and has been recognised with both the Dean Southgate and Ramazzini Prizes during her training. She has represented the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) in discussions with parliament and policymakers on critical health issues affecting workers, such as silicosis.

Dr Muir is available for telehealth assessments and offers limited face-to-face consultations. You can check her availability through Red Health Online (RHO) or by contacting our Client Experience team.

Areas of Expertise

Dr Muir provides assessment and management in the following areas:

• Occupational health and safety
• Workplace injury prevention
• Environmental and toxicological exposures
• Policy development and advocacy
• Fitness for duty and return-to-work assessments
  

Her practice includes collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, from individual workers and managers to C-suite executives, regulators, and policymakers.

Notable Achievements

• Awarded both the Dean Southgate and Ramazzini Prizes during her fellowship training.
• Represented the RACP in advocating for the health of workers affected by silicosis at the parliamentary level.

Get to Know Dr Muir

We had the pleasure of asking Dr Muir some personal and professional questions to give you insight into her passion and expertise:

We asked Dr Muir a few questions to get to know the person behind the profession:

Connect with Dr Muir

To book an appointment with Dr Jane Muir, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

Dr Jane Muir’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, correct as of 28/05/2025. For Dr Muir’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Dr Jane Muir appeared first on Red Health.

We are pleased to introduce Dr Ali Kalhor, an experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon, as a valued member of our Referral Network. Based in Brisbane, Dr Kalhor brings extensive clinical and surgical expertise in upper limb, lower limb, and sports-related orthopaedic conditions.

Professional Background

Dr Kalhor holds a Fellowship from the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with subspecialty training in upper limb and knee surgery. He also holds a Doctorate in Medicine, a Master of Engineering, and a degree in Anatomy. He has held consultant roles in both public and private hospitals across Queensland.

Dr Kalhor is available for video link assessments and offers limited face-to-face consultations in Brisbane. You can check his availability through our Red Health Online (RHO) platform or by contacting our Client Experience team.

Areas of Expertise

Dr Kalhor provides assessment and treatment for orthopaedic conditions involving:

His particular interest lies in upper limb and shoulder surgery.

Notable Achievements

Dr Kalhor completed his Upper Limb and Knee Sports Fellowship at Canberra Orthopaedic Hospital and has worked as an Orthopaedic Consultant at several major hospitals, including the Prince Charles Hospital and QEII Hospital.

Get to Know Dr Kalhor

We had the pleasure of asking Dr Kalhor some personal and professional questions to give you insight into his passion and expertise:

Q1: Why Orthopaedic surgery? “Growing up, I was always surrounded by adults who were fixing things—mechanics, builders, problem-solvers. That early exposure sparked my curiosity and enthusiasm for understanding how things worked. Later, in high school, I discovered a deep fascination with science. Orthopaedic surgery became the perfect intersection of those two passions: mechanical precision and biological understanding.”

Q2: Career Highlight? “One of the highlights of my career was a trip overseas where I had the chance to learn a muscle-sparing approach to shoulder replacement—an opportunity that came from simply being in the right place at the right time. Since then, I’ve refined and developed this technique further, and I now perform it in a unique, safe, and highly effective way.”

Q3: Hobbies and Interests? “Outside of work, I enjoy fishing, engaging in research, and spending quality time with my children.”

Q4: Dream Dinner Guest? “If I could share one more dinner with anyone, it would be my grandmother. There’s so much I’ve learned—both directly and indirectly—from her, and I’d love the chance to tell her that.”

Bonus question:
What is something surprising about you? “In addition to my clinical and medicolegal work, I also run a not-for-profit organisation called Chocolate and Wine, which helps fund the construction of schools in developing countries—a cause close to my heart”

Do you prefer cats or dogs? “While I’ve always been more of a cat person, a late-onset allergy has put that on hold.”

Which season speaks to you, summer or winter? “I’m an avid fan of winter and winter sports.”

Does pineapple ever grace your pizzas? “I stand firmly by one rule: no pineapple on pizza.”

Connect with Dr Kalhor

To book an appointment with Dr Ali Kalhor, visit Red Health Online (RHO) or contact our Client Experience team at 1300 100 733.

Dr Ali Kalhor’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, correct as of 10/01/2025. For Dr Ali Kalhor’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Dr Ali Kalhor appeared first on Red Health.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common issue among office workers, often leading to discomfort, reduced productivity and in some cases, workplace injury claims. A recent study, shared in Comcare’s Workplace Research Monthly, explored whether a targeted exercise program could prevent or alleviate CTS symptoms. In this edition of our Request for Comment series, Red Health’s expert specialists provide their insights—examining whether these findings translate into real-world clinical practice and medico-legal considerations.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. This nerve passes through the carpal tunnel – a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments. When pressure is placed on the median nerve, it can result in numbness, tingling, weakness or pain in the hand and fingers, particularly the thumb, index and middle fingers. 

Common causes of CTS include repetitive hand movements, prolonged wrist flexion or extension, poor ergonomics and underlying health conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Office workers, especially those who spend long hours typing or using a computer mouse, are particularly at risk of developing CTS. Left untreated, the condition can worsen over time, potentially leading to decreased hand function and chronic discomfort. 

What Did the Study Find?

The study assessed the effectiveness of an 8-week exercise protocol for office workers experiencing hand and wrist pain associated with CTS. Participants were divided into two groups: one performing seven specific hand and wrist exercises at least three times a week and the other serving as a control group.

Key findings included:

• Improved grip and pinch strength in those who completed the exercise program
• No significant reduction in pain levels, suggesting that pain management requires additional interventions
• General improvement in hand function, but not a cure for CTS itself

While the study highlighted some functional benefits, it raised an important question: do these findings actually impact clinical practice and medico-legal assessments?

What Do Red Health Experts Say?

To gain a deeper understanding, we asked three leading Red Health specialists on our Referral Network to weigh in.

• Dr Damon Thomas (Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon)
• Dr Vaidya Bala (Consultant Rehabilitation Physician)
• Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran (Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon)

Dr Damon Thomas – Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr Thomas found the study’s conclusions unsurprising and largely irrelevant to clinical practice. He pointed out that the results confirm a basic principle: strength training increases muscle strength—but this does not necessarily translate to reduced CTS symptoms.

His stance is clear: this study would not change his approach to treating CTS patients, nor does it influence his medico-legal opinions. In his view, the findings offer no meaningful evidence for recommending exercise as a standalone treatment for CTS.

Full Response from Dr Damon Thomas – Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

RH: Is the information presented in the study surprising based on your clinical experience?

Dr Damon Thomas: The findings of the study provide very little relevance to clinical practise. The main findings are that strength exercises increase the strength of the forearm and hand. This is pretty logical for any part of the body and has no specificity for the hand only. There is no definite change in carpal tunnel symptoms, just an increase in strength. These findings are not surprising, essentially strength exercises increase strength. There is no suggestion of any symptomatic improvement in carpal tunnel which is not surprising.

RH: Does the study change the way you approach clinical duties? What about medico-legal opinion?

Dr Damon Thomas: No, the study has no relevance to clinical practise. I would not recommend it as a therapeutic modality and would not recommend it for any medico legal related cases.

Dr Vaidya Bala – Rehabilitation Physician

Dr Bala raised concerns about the study’s methodology and title, arguing that it should focus on progression rather than prevention, given that participants already had CTS symptoms. While he supports exercise for office workers, he emphasises that the prescription of forearm exercise does not prevent all upper limb musculoskeletal conditions—it only improves certain functional abilities, including the hand.

From a medico-legal perspective, he believes that while workplace exercise programs have general value, they are not a primary preventive measure for CTS-related claims.

Full Response from Dr Vaidya Bala – Consultant Rehabilitation Physician

Dr Vaidya Bala: Article Key Points

1. Objective:
   • The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a preventive exercise protocol for hand and wrist pain among office workers with symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).
2. Methodology:
   • Participants: 62 office workers with hand and wrist pain.
   • Groups: 49 participants performed the exercise protocol (exercise group), and 13 did not (non-exercise group).
   • Duration: The exercise program lasted 8 weeks, with participants advised to perform exercises at least 3 times a week.
   • Exercises: The program included 7 specific exercises targeting the hand and wrist.
   • Assessment: Physical parameters (hand grip and pinch grip strength) and questionnaires (Visual Analog Scale for pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptom Severity Scale, and Functional Status Scale) were used to evaluate effectiveness before and after the intervention.
3. Results:
   • Hand Grip Strength: Significant improvement in the right hand grip strength in the exercise group.
   • Pinch Grip Strength: Significant improvement in both hands in the exercise group.
   • Functional Performance: Significant improvement in both groups, but more pronounced in the exercise group.
   • Pain Levels: No significant change in pain intensity, suggesting a complex etiology of pain perception.
4. Conclusions:
   • Regular preventive exercises can increase forearm muscle strength and improve functional hand performance in office workers with CTS symptoms.
   • The exercises did not significantly affect pain levels, indicating that pain management may require additional or alternative interventions.

Dr Vaidya Bala: Summary Expert Opinion

Dr Vaidya Bala:

1. The study participant were diagnosed to have CTS based only on clinical examination and nerve conduction study (NCS) was not used. The gold standard tool for diagnosis is NCS.
2. The title of the article states”Prevention exercise for CTS” but the subjects included in the study were already diagnosed with CTS. So it should be titled ‘Progression of CTS from early stages of CTS”
3. In principle, I am in support for exercise prescription for all admin staff

RH: Is the information presented in the study surprising based on your clinical experience?

Dr Vaidya Bala: Not surprising but the methodology and title should be changed as it does not clearly describe the intent as to what they are preventing with exercise.

RH: Does the study change the way you approach clinical duties? What about medico-legal opinion?

Dr Vaidya Bala: I am in support of exercise prescription for all admin staff for forearm exercise in general but it does not prevent all musculoskeletal degenerative disease of the upper limb but merely functions of the hand. In general, all admin staff should be given upper limb exercise.

Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran – Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr Vijaysegaran echoed similar sentiments, stating that while exercise improves strength, it does not reduce CTS-related pain. He even noted that, in his experience, overuse and repetitive strain could worsen CTS symptoms.

His conclusion? The study does not influence his clinical or medico-legal approach. He continues to advocate for evidence-based strategies rather than generic exercise programs when assessing workplace injuries.

Full Response from Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran – Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran: Summary Expert Opinion

Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran: This is an interesting study, but the conclusion really isn’t something that’s going to change clinical practice all too much. The main conclusion of the study to me is:

In office workers with symptoms of early carpal tunnel syndrome who perform a preventive exercise program regularly, an increase in forearm muscle strength is observed with no change to the level of pain.

The study’s findings clearly demonstrate as their primary outcome measure a change to forearm strength rather than a change to the symptoms of carpal tunnel. The conclusion thus has nothing to do with carpal tunnel as such, rather much more to do with forearm strength alone. I’m sure if this study had been done in a general patient population and not a cohort of patient with carpal tunnel only, the findings would have been similar.

RH: Is the information presented in the study surprising based on your clinical experience?

Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran: Not at all! Based on my clinical (and personal!) experience, exercise helps muscle to grow and become stronger, and this is all that this study shows. Pain in carpal tunnel syndrome is not improved by exercise in my experience, and this study confirms this with no change in pain levels, and this was the only outcome measure that was studied as a surrogate marker for symptoms of carpal tunnel in this study. Anecdotally, I find that overuse and overexertion in fact worsens carpal tunnel syndrome.

RH: Does the study change the way you approach clinical duties? What about medico-legal opinion?

Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran: This study will not change my clinical practice or medicolegal opinion at all, apart from generally continuing to encourage patients/clients who wish to build strength and be healthy to stay active and exercise regularly.

Comparing Expert Insights

The responses from Dr Thomas and Dr Bala illustrate the diversity of medical opinion surrounding CTS management. Dr Thomas is firm about the clinical relevance of exercise for CTS symptom relief, while Dr Bala acknowledges its value for functional improvement but cautions against overstating its preventive potential. Dr Vijaysegaran reinforces that strength gains do not equate to pain relief, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.

This range of perspectives underscores the importance of individualised patient care and highlights the complexities involved in medico-legal evaluations. It also demonstrates how Red Health’s multidisciplinary approach ensures balanced and comprehensive assessments.

The Medico-Legal Perspective: Why This Matters

For legal and insurance professionals handling workplace injury claims, it’s critical to distinguish between:

• Functional improvements (e.g., increased strength)
• Genuine symptomatic relief (e.g., reduced pain, improved nerve function)

While workplace exercise programs can be beneficial, they should not replace comprehensive injury management strategies, proper ergonomic interventions, or, in relevant matters, independent medico-legal assessments. Red Health’s experts provide evidence-based opinions to ensure accurate evaluations of workplace injury claims.

Final Thoughts: What Should Workplaces Do?

While this study contributes to the broader conversation about workplace health, it does not provide strong enough evidence to redefine CTS management. The varied responses from Red Health’s experts reveal the complexity of treating CTS and highlight the importance of evidence based, individualised care.

Key Takeaways: 

• Preventative exercises may improve functional abilities but are not a standalone solution for CTS. 
• Pain relief and overall symptom management require a multifaceted approach, including ergonomic adjustments and medical interventions. 
• In medico-legal contexts, functional improvement should not be misconstructed as a symptomatic relief or injury resolution. 

What Should Workplaces Do? 

Employers should focus on a well-rounded approach, including:

• Ergonomic adjustments to prevent strain
• Workplace wellness initiatives that go beyond exercise
• Access to independent medical assessments to ensure fair injury claims

At Red Health, we work with specialists across multiple disciplines to provide trusted, independent medico-legal opinions. If you’re handling a workplace injury case, our experts can help assess the true impact and validity of claims.

Dr Damon Thomas’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, correct as of 18/10/2024. For Dr Thomas’s full CV, please contact us.

Dr Vaidya Bala’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, correct as of 18/10/2024. For Dr Bala’s full CV, please contact us.

Dr Praveen Vijaysegaran’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, correct as of 18/10/2024. For Dr Vijaysegaran’s full CV, please contact us.

The post Request For Comment – Effects of Exercise on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome appeared first on Red Health.

Areas of Expertise

Her particular interest lies in General Adult and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Eating Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, PTSD, Psychotherapy, and Perinatal Psychiatry.

Notable Achievements

Dr Agrawal has gained extensive experience in inpatient and community mental health settings. She has worked as a Staff Specialist and Registrar Psychiatrist at Central Queensland Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Service (CQMHAODS), where she managed patients with complex psychiatric conditions. Her roles have involved working closely with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, patient-centred care.

Before her move to Australia, Dr Agrawal built a strong foundation in psychiatry through her work in India. She served as a Consultant at Ayushman Hospital & Research Centre and as an Assistant Professor/Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry at Santosh Medical College, where she was actively involved in teaching and mentoring medical students. Her professional journey includes experience in consultation-liaison psychiatry, mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal psychiatry, and community mental health services.

She has contributed significantly to improving mental health services and continues to focus on delivering high-quality psychiatric care in both public and private settings.

Get to Know Dr Agrawal

We had the pleasure of asking Dr Agrawal some personal and professional questions to gain insight into her passion and expertise:

Q1: Why Psychiatry?

“Growing up and during my training, I was really attracted to psychiatry because you actually get to connect with your patients.

Rather than just sitting and talking about symptoms and then prescribing medications, I liked that human connection—getting to know the person, talking to them, seeing them over time, and understanding them. 

And the satisfaction it gave when things got better, especially in India, where it’s such a family-driven culture. When a patient comes to us, they come with their whole family—four or five people at least. So you get a lot of history, you understand what’s going on from different perspectives. And when the person gets better, the whole family gets better. You see how everyone is in a better space because that one person is doing well, and all the relationships improve. That really made me choose psychiatry over the other specialties.”

Q2: Career Highlight?

“Probably coming to Australia and making the change from the public to the private sector. It was kind of an impulsive decision when I look back. I had been working in the public sector for seven and a half years, and then I decided to make the change and cut ties completely. But it opened me up to a lot of different aspects of psychiatry, which I always craved.”

Q3: Hobbies and Interests?

“If my children let me have some free time!  But in my free time, I like to spend time with them and take them out for walks. And as a family, we love travelling.

Where was your most recent holiday?

“We went to Europe last year. We had a really nice trip—we went to Austria and spent a couple of weeks in different places there. We also visited Budapest and Prague. It was really nice. 

And when my mum came last December, we took her to New Zealand for a week.”

Q4: Dream Dinner Guest?

“Ruskin Bond — an Indian author who used to write beautiful children’s books.

His stories were always in our school curriculum. Just reading them used to transport you into that hilly, foggy, cold world. I lived in Delhi, which was super hot, so I always imagined how nice it would be to live in the hills. His stories somehow resonate with my childhood. 

So if I ever got the chance, I’d love to sit down with him and say thank you for making my childhood a happy place. “

Bonus Questions – What is something surprising about you?
“I don’t like chocolate! People always give me a second look when I say that. My husband loves it, so he’s not happy about it either.”

Dr Aanchal Agrawal’s CV Extract

This is a short extract, correct as of 10/03/2025. For Dr Aanchal Agrawal’s full CV, please contact us.

The post A Warm Welcome to Dr Aanchal Agrawal appeared first on Red Health.