Your appointment (outpatients)

Your outpatient appointment is to see a specialist about your condition without being admitted into hospital. You may have an outpatient appointment before and/or after your admission to hospital.

Requesting an appointment

To get an outpatient appointment, your doctor needs to send a referral to the hospital. The hospital will send you a letter either offering an appointment or advising that your name has been placed on a wait list.

Your letter will advise you on the clinic you are required to attend and how to prepare for your appointment. If your condition changes or you are concerned about your health before the date of your appointment, please contact your doctor.

Your appointment

When you arrive, register your attendance at the reception desk with your appointment letter. While we always try to ensure that clinics run on time, due to unavoidable delays there may be a 1-2 hour wait to see a specialist.

At your first appointment your doctor or health professional will discuss your concerns, and healthcare plan. You may require an examination or further tests. Your doctor or health professional will advise you if you require further appointments.

Being seen as a public or private patient

On your first appointment, you will be asked if you would like to be seen as a public or private patient.

Medication

The hospital pharmacy is located on ground level of the hospital. You are welcome to use your own community pharmacy, however, some medications may not be on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and you may have to pay extra for these.

What to bring with you

Each time you visit us

• Your Medicare card
• Private health insurance card (if you want to use it)
• Health Care Card and/or concession card (if you have one)
• Current medications (prescription, over the counter and herbal medicine)
• Relevant x-rays, scans or any other test results or reports
• Glasses, hearing and mobility aids

For an outpatient or clinic appointment

• Your appointment letter
• Any special items listed on your letter
• WorkCover claim number (if relevant)
• Refreshments and something to drink while you wait