About us

The Neuro-Immunology Clinical Research, Education and Support Service (N-CRESS) has expert knowledge and interest in multiple sclerosis (MS).

We also treat related diseases that are caused by changes to immunity (such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and myasthenia gravis).

This is a specialty called Neuroimmunology.

Our service is staffed by neurologists and nurses.

We support research and are involved in many clinical trials.

We work closely with other services, general practice, local community, national and international partners.

Our services

We provide support, education and information to patients in hospital with:

• a new diagnosis of MS
• symptoms or issues relating to MS
• other disorders of immunity affecting the nervous system
• treatment-related concerns or side effects

We consult with patients and staff on:

• Management and treatment of MS
• Management and treatment of other disorders of immunity affecting the nervous system
• Management of bladder and bowel problems due to these conditions
• The conduct of clinical trials

Our clinics

We run the following clinics:

• Neuroimmunology Clinic
• Neuroimmunology Research Clinic
• Neuroimmunology Nurse-led Clinic

Find out more about clinic times and bookings in Specialist Clinics.

Related services

• Nerve & brain conditions

  We care for and treat people for diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles.

• Diagnosing brain, nerve & muscle disorders

  We provide tests to help your doctor find problems related to your brain, your brain's blood supply, nerves and muscles.

• Ambulatory care

  Our Ambulatory Care Centre (ACC) is a day treatment and infusion centre.

• Hospital in the home

  We care for you in your own home.

• X-ray, MRI & ultrasound scans

  We take pictures of the inside of your body to help your doctor work out what is wrong and how to treat you.

• Disability liaison

  We support people with disability to use hospital services and access the care and treatment they need.

Referrals

For patients

You need a referral from your GP, specialist or health care provider to access our service.

For health professionals

Address referrals to Prof Richard Macdonell, Director of Neurology to N-CRESS.

Send your referral by:

Fax: 03 9496 2153

Email: ncress@austin.org.au

Results of prior blood tests and assessments and copies of imaging reports eg. MRI are helpful when included in your referral.

A request for an admission indicates a high degree of medical urgency. These requests should be directed to the Neurology Registrar on call via the Austin switchboard on 03 9496 5000)

Phone: 03 9496 3705 (during business hours)

After hours, call the Austin switchboard on 03 9496 5000

Contact us

N-CRESS

Phone: 03 9496 3705

Fax: 03 9496 2153

Email: ncress@austin.org.au

Open hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Manager

Belinda Bardsley

Location

Occupational Therapy Building
Austin Hospital
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg VIC

View location map

Postal address

Neurology Department
Austin Hospital
PO Box 5555
Heidelberg VIC 3084
Australia