Getting Ready for Your Rheumatology Appointment

A valid referral is required to consult with one of our Rheumatologists in order to be eligible for a Medicare rebate. A referral for a Rheumatologist can be obtained from your GP or from another specialist. A referral from a GP is valid for 12 months and a referral from a specialist is valid for 3 months.

• Your referral letter

• Any relevant X-rays, scans and investigations

• Any relevant blood tests if available

• Medicare card or DVA card (if applicable)

• Claim number and details for Workers Compensation and Third Party claims

• List of medications 

Chatswood

Paid street parking is available on Help Street and other surrounding streets. Please note that parking inspectors patrol the streets regularly. There are also many parking stations in the vicinity. If you are willing to walk 10 to 15 minutes, Westfield parking is now 2 to 4 hours free. They request you download an app to get the extra hours.

Parramatta

Paid parking is available on Hunter Street and other surrounding streets. Please note that parking inspectors patrol the streets regularly. There is also the Justice Precinct Car Park directly across the road from the clinic. If you are willing to walk 10 to 15 minutes, 3 hours free parking is available at Westfield Parramatta.

Bondi Junction

There is paid street parking but this can be limited. For 2 hours of free parking, Westfield Bondi Junction Shopping Centre is only 350 metres away. 2 hour free council parking also exists in the area, as well as paid parking areas, including East Gate Car Park for 1 hour free parking.

Please be on time. We pride ourselves on being punctual, but this only works if our patients arrive on time as well. Should you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please inform us at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. We deliver a professional service and respect your rights, dignity, privacy, feelings and cultural customs.

No. Your Rheumatologist will only know which tests (if any) are appropriate once they've met with you, reviewed your medical history, and completed an assessment. This ensures that any investigations ordered are accurate and relevant to your situation. If tests are needed, your Rheumatologist will arrange them after your initial consultation.

First appointments typically run for 30 to 45 minutes, as your Rheumatologist needs time to review your history, discuss your symptoms in detail, and begin building a plan with you.

Yes. Many patients find it helpful to have a family member or friend with them, particularly for a first visit where there's often a lot of information to take in.

Here is a short video that will outline what you can expect in your first appointment with a Rheumatologist. 

Your Rheumatologist will let you know if any tests are needed and roughly how long results might take. A letter summarising your visit is usually sent to your referring doctor. If a review appointment is needed, your Rheumatologist will discuss this with you.