About this Service
Iron Infusion at Brunswick Doctors Melbourne
Iron Deficiency Treatment
Iron infusions are an injectable treatment to boost iron levels in people with iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is common and can result from excessive blood loss or inadequate dietary iron intake. Some individuals are more prone to iron deficiency and may need regular monitoring and treatment.
If you suspect that you have low iron levels or cannot tolerate iron supplements, book an appointment with Dr Juliana Quay at Brunswick Doctors to discuss if an iron infusion is appropriate for you.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
Fatigue or exhaustion
Physical weakness
Lack of concentration
Pale skin
Dizziness
People at Risk of Iron Deficiency
Women (due to blood loss during menstruation)
Frequent blood donors
Vegans or vegetarians
People with an unbalanced diet
How to Improve your iron level?
If you suspect that you have low iron level, there are simple dietary changes you can make to improve your iron level gradually.
Here's a list of foods that are high in iron:
Spirulina (2 mg of iron per 1 tablespoon | 7g): Spirulina has a very high iron content based on volume. Get into the habit of adding spirulina powder to your morning smoothies or juice to easily boost your iron intake.
Lentil (6.6 mg of iron per cup, cooked) Among legumes, lentils have one of the highest iron content per cup. If you’re not a fan of legumes, try mixing lentils with rice to mask their texture and taste.
Spinach (6.4 mg of iron per cup, cooked) Cooked spinach allows for better iron absorption than raw spinach, and it's easier to consume in larger quantities. Keep frozen spinach on hand and add it to pestos or morning smoothies for a convenient boost.
Oatmeal (3.4 mg of iron per cup, cooked) Besides being a hearty breakfast, oats are also a great source of iron. Find creative ways to dress up your oatmeal to make it an enjoyable and nutritious treat!
Tips: Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better, while caffeine can block it. To get the most out of your iron-rich foods, pair them with fruits and veggies high in vitamin C, like oranges or bell peppers. Also, try to wait a little before having coffee or tea to let your body absorb the iron!
Benefits of Iron Infusion
If improving your diet and nutrition isn't enough to raise your iron levels, iron infusions are often recommended. The effects can start to show as early as 1-2 weeks. Here are some benefits of iron infusions compared to dietary changes:
Rapid Improvement: Iron infusions work faster than dietary adjustments, with noticeable results in just 1-2 weeks.
Effective for Severe Deficiency: If your iron deficiency is severe, infusions can quickly replenish your iron stores, offering a more immediate solution.
Bypasses Absorption Issues: For individuals with absorption problems, such as those with gastrointestinal conditions, iron infusions deliver iron directly into the bloodstream, avoiding the digestive system.
Convenient: Instead of long-term dietary changes or supplementation, a single infusion can significantly boost your iron levels.
Consultation, Procedure & Cost
1st Appointment: Consultation & Referral for Iron Studies
During the first appointment, you will discuss your symptoms and any concerns with the doctor. The doctor will arrange an iron studies blood test to determine your iron levels, which must be completed before the infusion. If you have had an iron study blood test recently (within the last few months), please inform our staff as you may not require this initial consultation.
2nd Appointment: Iron Infusion Procedure
A prescription for Ferinject® will be forwarded to you or a pharmacy before the appointment. Our friendly staff will instruct you to pick up the Ferinject® from a nearby pharmacy before you attend.
The iron infusion procedure typically takes 30-45 minutes, and you can expect to be in the clinic for about 60 minutes. The doctor will explain the process and ensure you are comfortable throughout the infusion. A thin needle will be placed into a vein, usually on the back of your hand or in your elbow crease, to deliver the infusion slowly. You should feel the full benefit of the infusion within 2-4 weeks.
Fee for Iron Infusion Procedure on Weekdays
Upfront fee: $232.9*
Medicare Rebate: $82.9
Out of Pocket: $150 (includes $20 equipment fee)
Fee for Iron Infusion Procedure on Weekends
Upfront fee: $369*
Medicare Rebate: $129
Out of Pocket: $240 (includes $20 equipment fee)
Fee for Ferinject®
Medicare Holder: $44
Private: $341
*Final fees are subject to change based on the actual consultation. We strive to keep out-of-pocket costs consistent. If you have private health insurance, consult your provider to see if they cover the injection.
3rd Appointment: Telehealth Follow-up
A telehealth follow-up appointment will be scheduled one week after the infusion. The doctor will provide you with a pathology form for a follow-up iron studies test to ensure the infusion has been effective.
Fees
The follow-up appointment will have no out-of-pocket cost for Medicare holders. If you are not a Medicare holder, you will need to pay the MBS fee for the appointment (~$39.10 - $52), which may be fully rebated if your insurance provider covers GP appointments.
Where Can I Get an Iron Infusion in Melbourne?
Brunswick Doctors offers iron infusions every Thursday and Sunday. Make an appointment with one of our doctors or speak to our friendly reception staff if you have any questions.