Question 1

Do I need a referral from a General Practitioner?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A referral from a GP (or specialist) is a requirement under Medicare. We would also like
to keep your GP informed about your management plan and subsequent progress.

Question 2

How soon can I have an initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

Usually 1-2 weeks.

Question 3

How soon can I have surgery?

Accepted Answer

Some conditions will require further work-up and investigations, whilst others do not. Once all work-up is complete, the surgery will be scheduled according to urgency. Urgent surgery will take place in 1 week, whilst non-urgent surgery will take place in 2-3 weeks.

Question 4

What will the follow up be?

Accepted Answer

The follow-up appointment will be made by your surgeon before discharge. It will usually be 3-4 weeks after surgery.

Question 5

Is after-hours care provided?

Accepted Answer

Your will receive post-discharge information before leaving the hospital, which has detailed instructions of what to do if you have any concern, including after-hours care.

Question 6

How long before I can drive again?

Accepted Answer

Usually 1 week.
This depends on the specific procedure. However, after most laparoscopic operations patients may expect to drive again once they are comfortable and able to wear the seat belt, and able to react in an emergency situation without limitation (ie emergency braking, twisting/turning).

Question 7

Do I need Private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

No, you can have surgery as a self-funded patient. You will have additional costs for the hospital including theatre and bed fees that the health fund usually covers.

Though unlikely, if a self-funding patient has a complication from surgery and requires re-operation, ICU or extended length of stay they may require transfer to a Public Hospital for financial reasons.

It is preferable that patients have private health insurance, though there is a 12-month waiting period after joining to allow access to this.

Question 8

How can I find out if my health fund will cover my hospital costs?

Accepted Answer

An informed financial consent will be obtained prior to your surgery. Contact your health fund and quote the MBS item number and check if the specific operation is covered by your policy.

Question 9

When can I start exercising again after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Walking is encouraged early post-surgery and thereafter, on a regular basis to increase your physical activity level.

Aerobic activities such as brisk walking, stationary biking, elliptical machines, etc. may be engaged 2 weeks after surgery and are limited generally by the degree of discomfort that these activities cause.

Activities that are more strenuous or that involve lifting weights are generally safe 4 weeks following surgery and you are given clearance by the surgeon.