FAQs

What should I bring with me when I come for a scheduled appointment?

On the day of consultation or procedure, you should bring the following information as applicable to you:

• Name and contact details of your next-of-kin and a second local contact person
• Name and contact details of your General Practitioner
• Medicare card
• Department of Veterans' Affairs card
• Pension card
• Health Care card
• Safety Net or Concession card
• Private health insurance membership card
• Health history and a list of current medications

Are my records kept private and confidential?

Your medical records are handled with the utmost respect for your privacy. Our staff are bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment. See our Privacy Policy.

Do I need a medical referral to make an appointment?

Yes, you will need to see your GP who will provide you with a referral letter to see a Specialist. This is to ensure the Specialist you are seeing is appropriate for you and your condition.

How can my GP help?

Before seeing any medical Specialist, it is preferable that you talk to your own GP who can discuss your condition with you. Your GP will provide you with a referral letter to take to the Specialist. You will need to take this letter on the day of consult with the Specialist. 

If Specialist care is required, your GP can help choose the Specialist best suited to your needs. Your GP can also provide relevant information about your health to the Specialist to ensure the best care is made possible

How long will I be at the centre on the day of my procedures?

You will be expected to stay approximately 3-4 hours from your appointment time to the time you go home. We have provided estimated timeframes on the Admissions page.

Please note that your appointment time does not reflect your procedure time.

The person taking you home will be called approximately 30 minutes prior to your discharge time.

Please be aware that you maybe required to remain at the Centre for more than 3 hours as Endoscopy is a diagnostic test and there may be delays in theatre times.

What is an Endoscopist?

An Endoscopist is a doctor who has specialised training in endoscopic procedures of the digestive tract, including upper gastrointestinal endoscopy such as a gastroscopy and colonoscopy. 

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist in the area of digestive disease. In Australia, these specialists are members of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and have also undergone extensive training in gastrointestinal endoscopy. As well as providing endoscopy services, specialist gastroenterologists offer consultations in the following areas of digestive health:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux
• Liver disease and Hepatitis including Interferon, Ribavirin, Boceprevir, Telaprevir and Entecavir therapy
• Chronic Diarrhoea and Constipation
• Pancreatic Diseases
• Coeliac Disease