For patients
Patients are encouraged to bring relevant information, including referrals and previous investigation results, so the consultation can focus on clinical assessment.
A current GP or specialist referral is generally required for private consultation. Referrals are most helpful when they clearly state the clinical question and include relevant medical history, current medications, previous endoscopy, imaging, and pathology where available.
Patients should bring the referral, a medication list, any recent blood tests or imaging reports, previous endoscopy reports, hospital discharge summaries if relevant, and details of allergies or significant past medical history.
Preparation depends on the reason for review. Most initial consultations do not require fasting unless this has been specifically advised. If the appointment is primarily to discuss a procedure, existing investigation results are particularly helpful.
The consultation involves a review of symptoms, previous testing, medications, and medical history. This is followed by a discussion of further investigation, treatment, monitoring, or procedural assessment.
Yes. A valid GP or specialist referral is generally required for consultation and for Medicare rebate eligibility.
For standard consultation, no special preparation is usually needed unless the practice advises otherwise. If a procedure is being arranged, specific preparation instructions will be provided separately.
The appointment focuses on understanding the reason for referral, reviewing prior investigations, and deciding whether treatment, monitoring, or further testing is appropriate.
Procedures may be arranged through the most appropriate private or hospital-based pathway. Current private procedure locations include St Vincent's Private Hospital, Epworth Freemasons, Hobsons Bay Day Procedure Centre.
Second-opinion referrals are considered selectively where there is a clearly defined clinical question and relevant prior results are available.