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Information for patients

You may be curious about what will happen when you come to visit our practice as a patient. Rest assured that your care is at the top of our priorities, and we strive to keep you well informed and involved in all decisions that are made in the course of your treatment.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. If you have any queries not addressed here, please email or ring us.

Do I need a referral?

No, it is not mandatory, but it is preferable to have a valid referral. A referral is a letter from your GP or other health practitioner stating that you require the care of a vascular surgeon or vascular specialist. A referral facilitates good communication between your doctors to help us look after you more effectively. A valid referral also gives you eligibility for a Medicare rebate which will reduce the out-of-pocket expense for your consultation.

Can I get an urgent appointment?

Our staff make a best effort to allocate appointments with the appropriate level of urgency based on the information available to us at the time. If you feel you need your appointment to be made more urgent, please ring us to discuss your situation.

What will happen at my first consultation?

Dr Kwok will talk to you to understand your problem and how it affects you, and then conduct a clinical examination. He will thoroughly assess the available relevant documentation and test results. He will then provide a detailed explanation of his opinion and the recommended next steps. There may be a need for further tests to obtain additional information to guide and inform your care. There may be the option for you to undergo an operation or procedure to improve your condition.

If I visit you, will I be told I need an operation?

This is far from being a certainty. Based on the findings of your clinical assessment and relevant tests, Dr Kwok will give you his professional opinion on the best treatment plan, as well as any alternative options you may wish to consider. There will often be a choice between conservative management (non-surgical treatment) and one or more procedural options. You will be closely guided through the decision-making process, and the decision is always yours.

Why do I need follow-up appointments and scans?

Many people with vascular conditions need periodic long-term follow-up to ensure durability of their treatment and for early detection of new problems. For example, after surgery on your arteries, periodic ultrasound scans and clinical reviews are strongly recommended so that any new narrowing in your arteries can be detected and addressed before the problem becomes too complex.

What should I do if I cannot make my appointment?

Please ring us as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment. This allows us to allocate your timeslot to another person who needs care. If you do not attend your appointment, or cancel it on the actual day of the appointment, a late cancellation fee will be payable.