Frequently Asked Questions

Book a Standard Consultation (15 minutes) for one straightforward concern. Choose a Long Consultation (30 minutes) for multiple concerns, complex conditions or more detailed assessment and management.

Consultations extending beyond 20 minutes are charged at the Long Consultation rate. See our Fees page for consultation fees, Medicare rebates and out-of-pocket costs.

Yes, but please choose a Long Consultation if you have multiple issues to discuss. Your practitioner may recommend another appointment if more time is needed.

Please bring your Medicare card or relevant health cover information, a current list of medicines, recent investigation results and any relevant specialist letters. Bring a written list of questions if helpful.

Your practitioner may recommend pathology, imaging or other investigations depending on your symptoms and examination. Tests are arranged when clinically appropriate and their costs may vary.

Yes, new prescriptions can be considered during an in-person consultation following a clinical assessment. Some medicines have special prescribing requirements. Read our Prescriptions page for details.

Yes. Your practitioner can assess whether a specialist referral is appropriate. Separate requirements may apply to public hospital outpatient referrals. See our Specialist Referrals page.

General consultations may attract an out-of-pocket cost. Certain services or appointment types are bulk billed where applicable. Please review our Fees page for current charges and rebate information.

Some diagnostic tests or procedures carry separate fees. Where an additional procedure fee applies, your practitioner will explain the cost and seek your consent before proceeding.

Remote consultations may be available to eligible existing patients for suitable concerns, subject to Medicare rules and the practitioner's assessment. Some conditions and medications require an in-person visit.

Yes. GPs provide ongoing treatment and monitoring for many chronic conditions and can consider a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan where eligible. Visit our Chronic Care Plans page.

General consultation bookings are not an emergency service. For serious symptoms such as severe chest pain, significant breathing difficulty or stroke symptoms, call Triple Zero (000).

Existing patients may be eligible for a telephone consultation to renew an established medication. Your GP may require an in-person review, recent investigations or other monitoring. Prescriptions are never automatic.

No. DC Medical Centre requires an in-person consultation for new medications. A practitioner will assess the condition, medical history, benefits and risks before considering treatment.

Brief (8 minutes) may be suitable for a straightforward repeat or follow-up. Standard (15 minutes) is recommended for a new medication or a more detailed review. Video and telephone appointments are available for appropriate established-patient concerns, but not for restricted medicines under our practice policy.

Our telehealth exclusions include Schedule 8 medicines, medications requiring PBS authority prescriptions, weight-loss medicines such as Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy, and controlled medicines such as stimulants, opioids, benzodiazepines and sleeping tablets. Please review the examples in the restricted-medications section above.

Possibly, following an in-person assessment, receipt of appropriate specialist correspondence and any NSW Health approval required for your circumstances. Continuing a medicine previously prescribed elsewhere is not guaranteed.

Straightforward applications may be processed within approximately 2–3 business days. New patients should allow up to one month for record collection, clinical assessment and any required approval. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Ask your psychiatrist or specialist to address the letter to your intended treating GP at DC Medical Centre. It should clearly describe the diagnosis, medicine, dose and recommended ongoing management.

DC Medical Centre generally uses electronic prescriptions (eScripts). When a prescription is issued after your consultation, a secure prescription token is sent by SMS to your nominated mobile number. You can present the token to your pharmacy.

Contact the practice or your dispensing pharmacy for advice. Depending on the prescription and its status, the token may be retrievable or a new clinical review may be necessary. Do not assume that a duplicate prescription can be issued automatically.

Some medicines require blood tests, blood pressure measurements or other monitoring. Your practitioner may defer prescribing until the required safety information is available.

No. All medicines are prescribed only when clinically appropriate and in accordance with applicable requirements. Your GP may recommend another treatment, specialist review or follow-up instead.

Consultation charges vary by appointment type and Medicare eligibility. See our Fees page for consultation fees, available Medicare rebates and out-of-pocket costs.

Yes. A Brief appointment may be appropriate if you already see that specialist for the same ongoing condition and need a routine renewed referral. Your GP may recommend a longer or in-person review if reassessment is needed.

Book a Standard in-person consultation so your GP can assess the new problem, identify an appropriate specialty and document the clinical reason for referral. Complex concerns may require more time.

Existing patients may be eligible for a Telephone or Video consultation for a straightforward repeat referral when clinically appropriate. New specialist referrals generally require an in-person assessment at DC Medical Centre. Medicare telehealth eligibility requirements also apply.

Generally yes, for community-based specialist care. A referral addressed to one doctor can usually be presented to another appropriately qualified specialist in the same specialty. Hospital clinic and administrative requirements can differ.

Usually 12 months from the first specialist consultation under the referral. A GP may specify a longer or indefinite period when clinically appropriate. A new medical issue generally requires a new referral.

Fees vary widely by specialty and provider. Some initial private specialist appointments cost approximately $200–$400, although others can cost more. Ask the specialist for the full fee, applicable Medicare rebate and out-of-pocket cost before booking.

Eligible patients receiving publicly funded outpatient care generally do not pay for the consultation. Costs can depend on eligibility, election as a public or private patient, and the specific service. Confirm directly with the hospital.

A referral may take several weeks to be processed and clinics can take longer to communicate an appointment. A 2–4 week period is only a planning guide. For progress or waiting times, contact the receiving clinic directly.

Contact your specialist’s rooms to confirm whether a renewed referral is needed. If so, arrange a GP consultation before your next specialist appointment. Referrals cannot be backdated.

A referral submitted to one public outpatient clinic is not automatically transferred to another hospital. A separate referral or submission may be needed depending on the receiving service.

Yes. Please tell your GP which services you want to pursue. DC Medical Centre ordinarily issues separate referrals to the nominated public clinic and private specialist.

Sometimes a repeat referral can be issued after reviewing available records. For new symptoms or when clinical reassessment is needed, your GP may require an in-person examination, investigations or additional information before referring.

Book a GP review promptly if your symptoms worsen so your care and referral urgency can be reassessed. For severe or life-threatening symptoms, call Triple Zero (000) or attend an emergency department.

Your GP will assess whether you have a mental health condition for which a structured treatment plan is clinically appropriate. Eligibility for Medicare rebates also depends on Medicare requirements. See Services Australia for further information.

Yes. DC Medical Centre bulk bills eligible Mental Health Care Plan consultations. If the booking system displays a gap fee warning, you may disregard it for an eligible care plan appointment.

Eligible patients can generally receive Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual Better Access treatment sessions per calendar year across eligible providers. Group services have separate limits. An initial referral commonly covers up to six sessions, with a review needed before additional sessions are referred.

No. Mental Health Treatment Plans do not automatically expire, including at 12 months. They can be updated as your needs change. A new plan is generally not prepared within 12 months of the preceding one unless exceptional circumstances apply; this is not a strict 365-day minimum. Your referral covers a specified number of treatment sessions and may need renewing.

No. Your Medicare entitlement of up to 10 individual sessions resets on 1 January, but your existing Mental Health Treatment Plan does not expire or restart automatically. A new referral or review may be required when a referral course has been completed, rather than a new plan.

Yes, you can discuss your preferred psychologist with your GP. Before booking, check that the psychologist offers Medicare-rebatable services, is accepting new patients and can accept your referral.

Not necessarily. DC Medical Centre bulk bills eligible plan consultations, but psychologists set their own fees. Medicare rebates may cover part of the psychologist's charge, leaving a gap payment. Confirm the cost with the psychologist before attending.

A face-to-face appointment is recommended for an initial assessment at DC Medical Centre. Telehealth eligibility and the appropriateness of remote assessment depend on the type of service, Medicare rules and your practitioner's clinical judgement.

Your GP will discuss your concerns, relevant medical and mental health history, symptoms, wellbeing, treatment goals and suitable care options. Where appropriate, they may prepare a plan and arrange a referral.

If there is immediate danger, call 000 or attend an emergency department. For crisis support in Australia, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. A routine care plan appointment is not an emergency service.

No new Mental Health Treatment Plan is automatically required. For example, if you received five eligible sessions last year and five this year, you may still have five Medicare-subsidised individual sessions remaining this calendar year. If you have finished the sessions authorised by your referral, your GP can assess your progress and, where appropriate, provide a further referral under the existing plan.

No. The 10 individual-session annual Medicare limit applies across eligible Better Access providers and referrals, including sessions claimed under an earlier plan. A new plan or referral cannot increase that annual limit. You can generally access further Medicare-subsidised individual sessions from 1 January next year, provided you have an appropriate referral and continue to meet the eligibility rules. You may still attend additional privately paid sessions this year.

No. The plan does not have a lifetime allowance of 10 sessions. Ten is the annual Medicare individual-session limit, not the number of sessions permitted under one plan. Your GP may continue to manage and review your existing plan and issue further referrals when clinically appropriate and when you have annual Medicare sessions available.

Not an absolute one. The MBS guidance says a new plan should generally not be prepared within 12 months of the last plan unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as a significant change in your mental health. Usually the existing plan should be reviewed or updated instead. Twelve months is not always identical to 365 days.

Your GP will discuss your medical history, weight goals, eating and activity patterns, sleep, current medications and relevant health conditions. They may assess your BMI, waist measurement, blood pressure and the need for further investigations.

No. DC Medical Centre requires all appointments for prescribing or renewing GLP-1 and related weight management injections to be conducted in person, including ongoing prescriptions.

Yes. DC Medical Centre requires an up-to-date height and weight measurement at every appointment involving these medications, to help document BMI and monitor treatment. Other measurements or tests may also be needed.

Generally not for weight loss. Our practitioners do not prescribe GLP-1 or related medicines for cosmetic weight reduction in patients with a normal BMI, unless another appropriate clinical indication applies. Prescribing is always subject to an individual medical assessment.

For many Australian-approved weight management medicines, adult indications include an initial BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with a qualifying weight-related health condition. This does not guarantee a prescription, and eligibility varies by medicine and clinical indication.

No. These are different brands and products with different approved uses. Wegovy contains semaglutide, Mounjaro contains tirzepatide (a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist), and Ozempic contains semaglutide but is primarily approved for type 2 diabetes in Australia.

Your practitioner may recommend investigations, such as blood glucose or HbA1c, lipids, liver or kidney tests, depending on your health history, symptoms and proposed treatment. Not every patient needs the same tests.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and abdominal discomfort can occur. More serious problems are possible. Seek prompt medical advice for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting or symptoms of dehydration.

Weight management medicines may be unsuitable during pregnancy and while planning pregnancy. Tell your practitioner if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to conceive so they can discuss medicine-specific precautions and stopping periods.

Treatment duration varies. Your practitioner will review benefits, side effects, health goals and weight changes over time. Weight management often needs ongoing nutrition, activity and behavioural support, whether or not medication is used.

Medicine costs and PBS eligibility vary by product, indication and the patient's circumstances. A private prescription may be required and consultation fees may also apply. Check the current costs with your practitioner and pharmacy.

Choose a Standard Consultation (15 minutes) for a straightforward follow-up or a single concern, or a Long Consultation (30 minutes) for an initial or complex weight management assessment, multiple issues or a more detailed treatment discussion. An in-person appointment is essential for any GLP-1 prescription request.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is HIV-prevention medication for people who do not have HIV and may be exposed to it. Your GP can discuss your circumstances, eligibility, treatment options and required testing.

Book a Standard Consultation (15 minutes) for an initial PrEP assessment or a more detailed discussion. A Brief Consultation (8 minutes) may suit a straightforward ongoing prescription review after the required tests have been completed and your GP confirms it is appropriate.

Yes. An appropriate HIV test is essential before starting PrEP, along with other baseline screening such as kidney function, hepatitis B and C assessment, and STI testing as clinically indicated. Your GP will determine the tests needed.

For routine oral PrEP, follow-up HIV and STI testing is generally required every three months. Kidney function is assessed at baseline, at around three months and usually at least every six months thereafter, with frequency tailored to individual risk factors and the PrEP regimen.

Your GP may be unable to renew oral PrEP without current HIV testing and any other required monitoring. Arrange your pathology before your repeat appointment so results can be reviewed.

No. PrEP is medication used before potential HIV exposure to reduce risk. PEP is an urgent short course of medication after a possible exposure and must be started within 72 hours. If you may have been exposed, seek urgent care rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

Seek urgent medical assessment now through an emergency department, sexual health clinic or an appropriate urgent service. PEP works best when started as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, and must begin within 72 hours.

No. PrEP prevents HIV when used correctly, but it does not prevent infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea or syphilis. STI testing, vaccination and other prevention measures remain important.

On-demand oral PrEP may be suitable for certain patients after individual assessment, but it is not suitable for everyone and the on-demand regimen is not TGA-approved. Do not switch from daily to on-demand dosing without advice from a qualified prescriber.

ASHM is the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine. It publishes the Australian PrEP Guidelines, which provide evidence-based recommendations on assessment, prescribing, testing and follow-up.

The correct advice depends on your regimen, timing, possible exposure and how long you have been taking PrEP. Contact your prescriber promptly for individual advice; a recent potential exposure may need urgent PEP assessment.

Eligible patients may receive PBS-subsidised PrEP, but medication costs, Medicare eligibility and any consultation or pathology fees depend on individual circumstances. Check your eligibility and our current consultation fees before booking.

Tell your GP about fever, rash, sore throat, swollen glands or other symptoms following a possible exposure. Additional testing or specialist assessment may be needed before PrEP can safely be started.

Consultations and treatment that are payable under workers compensation should be billed through that system, rather than claimed through Medicare. Your practitioner and reception can discuss the appropriate billing pathway.

When your insurer and claim details are confirmed and the service is covered, DC Medical Centre can bill your insurer directly, normally leaving no out-of-pocket cost for the payable consultation. A claim number alone does not guarantee coverage.

You may still attend for assessment, but you will be invoiced at the applicable SIRA rates while insurer arrangements are unresolved. Keep your invoice and receipt and ask your insurer about reimbursement if your claim is accepted.

If the insurer declines liability or refuses to cover a particular service, you may be responsible for the account. Speak with reception about billing and contact the insurer or the Independent Review Office if you dispute the decision.

Choose Standard (15 minutes) for a straightforward existing claim review, or Long (30 minutes) for an initial injury assessment, complex concerns or Certificate of Capacity discussion. Your practitioner may recommend additional time.

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. The employer generally must notify its insurer within 48 hours; the insurer can then provide a claim number. Ask your employer for its insurer details and give the claim number to our reception team when available.

It is the NSW workers compensation medical certificate describing your injury, treatment, functional limitations and current ability to work. It helps guide rehabilitation, appropriate duties and insurer decisions.

Your practitioner must complete an appropriate clinical assessment before certifying work capacity. An in-person review may be required, especially for a new injury or when an examination is needed.

The usual maximum is 28 days. A longer period requires specific clinical reasons. Arrange review before expiry if you need ongoing certification or support.

Yes. If clinically appropriate, the doctor can document capacity for some work and describe restrictions, suitable duties, hours and days rather than certifying no capacity at all.

Your nominated treating doctor can issue and review certificates. For relevant conditions, a SIRA-approved treating physiotherapist or psychologist may issue some subsequent certificates using the designated form.

Eligible treatment may be covered, but some services need prior insurer approval. Ask the insurer and your practitioner about authorisation before arranging non-urgent investigations or treatment.

Book a prompt medical review so your care and capacity can be reassessed. If symptoms are severe or life-threatening, call Triple Zero (000) or attend an emergency department.

No appointment is needed for routine pathology collections at DC Medical Centre. Some specialised tests have specific collection times or preparation requirements, so call reception first if unsure.

You need a valid pathology request from a GP or another authorised healthcare professional. You do not need a separate appointment with a DC Medical Centre GP if you already have an acceptable request.

Please bring the request form so our collection team can confirm it can be processed through Laverty at this location. Some specialised tests may require a different collection site.

Specimens are collected at DC Medical Centre. Laverty Pathology transports and analyses samples in its laboratory network; laboratory testing is not performed by DC Medical Centre.

If your test requires fasting, the usual instruction is approximately 8–12 hours with plain water only. Follow your specific request and Laverty instructions; not every glucose or cholesterol test requires fasting.

Plain water is usually encouraged. Do not change or stop medication without medical advice, especially if you take diabetes medications or insulin.

Routine blood tests, urine tests, selected swabs and stool specimen collection are among the services supported. Availability depends on the test, equipment and collection requirements; call reception for unusual tests.

Eligible tests may be bulk billed where Medicare requirements and the pathology provider’s billing rules are met. Fees can apply where Medicare requirements are not met or the pathology provider privately bills the service. If you do not have Medicare, provide your private health insurance details to reception for inclusion on your request.

Please provide your private health insurance details to reception so they can be included on the pathology request. Coverage varies by policy and type of test. If you receive an invoice, contact your insurer to discuss whether the service is covered, how to claim and how to pay the account. Contact Laverty or Healius for invoice-specific queries.

The pathology provider may issue an account if Medicare does not cover the test, eligibility criteria are not met or the test is privately billed. Contact Laverty or Healius directly using the information on your invoice.

Results are generally sent to the requesting practitioner, who reviews them and arranges any necessary follow-up. Ask your requesting practitioner how and when to obtain your results.

The requesting practitioner should review your results and arrange any necessary follow-up. If you have concerning symptoms or have not received an expected result, contact your practitioner. Significant abnormalities may require prompt medical assessment.

Many tests can be performed, but fasting and preparation instructions may differ. Seek individual advice before fasting or changing medication.

'.htmlspecialchars($faq[1], ENT_QUOTES, 'UTF-8').'

Book a Standard (15-minute) consultation for a particular spot or concern. Let reception know if you want a broader examination or have multiple issues; extra time or a follow-up appointment may be needed.

Yes. Your GP can examine a new or changing mole and decide whether monitoring, biopsy, removal or specialist referral is appropriate.

Your GP discusses your medical and skin history and examines the areas of concern. A dermatoscope may be used. The extent of the skin examination depends on your circumstances and consultation time.

No. Some melanomas and other skin cancers may not have obvious ABCDE changes. Any persistent, new, changing, bleeding or non-healing lesion should be assessed.

Your practitioner may recommend a biopsy or excision when clinically appropriate. Whether it can be performed at the practice and during the same visit depends on the lesion, equipment, practitioner and appointment availability.

Additional procedure, dressing or pathology fees may apply. Your practitioner will explain the procedure and known additional practice charges and seek your informed consent before proceeding. Ask about any potential separate pathology charges.

Not necessarily. You may need a separate procedural appointment or referral. Your GP will explain the safest and most appropriate next step.

Turnaround times vary by laboratory and sample. Your practice will explain how results are communicated and when to follow up. Do not assume that no news means a normal result.

Yes. Your GP can assess whether a dermatologist or another specialist is appropriate and provide a referral where clinically indicated.

There is no universal skin-check interval for all Australians. Your doctor can recommend a schedule based on personal and family history, sun exposure, immune status and findings.

Tell your GP. Previous melanoma, certain family histories and other risk factors may affect your recommended monitoring and specialist referral plan.

Make a note of any new or changing spots, when they changed and any symptoms. Wear clothing that allows access to the area of concern, and tell your doctor about previous skin cancers and any medications.

Medicare may provide a rebate for eligible GP consultations or procedures, depending on the relevant MBS item and circumstances. There is no single Medicare-funded national routine skin screening program. Ask the practice about fees and rebates.

Protect yourself from excess ultraviolet radiation, know your skin and seek prompt medical review of new or changing lesions. Sun protection measures include shade, clothing, hats, sunglasses and appropriate sunscreen.

Yes. Book a Standard (15-minute) consultation for a routine vaccination or to check which vaccines are due. Complex catch-up plans, multiple concerns or special medical circumstances may require additional time. Contact reception beforehand to confirm the required vaccine is available.

Vaccines listed on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) are supplied free to eligible patients at the recommended ages. Eligibility is linked to Medicare entitlement. A consultation or administration fee may still apply depending on the service and circumstances.

No. Each funded vaccine has specific criteria such as age, pregnancy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status, medical risk factors or catch-up eligibility. Vaccines outside those criteria may need to be purchased privately.

The NIP covers scheduled childhood and adolescent vaccines and selected vaccines for pregnant people, older adults, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and those with certain medical risk conditions. Vaccine names and eligibility can change: use the official NIP schedule linked above.

A catch-up schedule is an individual plan for doses missed or delayed. Your GP reviews your vaccination history, age and health circumstances, then works out which doses are required and the minimum intervals between them.

Eligible people under 20 may receive NIP-funded catch-up vaccines for missed childhood vaccinations; the funded antigens vary by age. HPV catch-up is funded through age 25. Refugees and humanitarian entrants aged 20 and over may receive specified catch-up vaccines, with HPV funded through age 25. Other NSW programs can also apply.

Yes, adults may benefit from catching up on missed doses. Whether the vaccines are government-funded depends on the specific program, vaccine and eligibility criteria; people outside a funded program may have to pay.

We can review available Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) records, previous medical records and overseas or school vaccination documents. Missing or uncertain records may require an individual catch-up plan.

NSW Health funds selected vaccinations for additional eligible groups, including some hepatitis B priority groups and specific exposure or risk-based programs. The exact criteria and ordering arrangements vary. Consult the NSW additional funded vaccines page linked above.

It may be funded under the NIP or NSW programs if you meet specific criteria. NSW has additional eligibility groups such as household or sexual contacts of hepatitis B cases and some people with certain health or exposure risks. Healthcare employment, study or travel alone does not automatically qualify for NSW-funded vaccine.

Many are, for defined groups under the NIP or NSW arrangements. Funding differs by age, pregnancy status, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status and medical risk. Check the current schedule and ask your GP to confirm eligibility.

Often yes, depending on which vaccines are required, your medical history and relevant immunisation guidance. Your clinician will discuss timing, safety and any follow-up doses.

Common effects include soreness at the injection site, tiredness or a mild fever. Serious allergic reactions are rare. Your clinician will discuss the relevant vaccine information, and patients are normally observed after vaccination. For severe symptoms seek urgent medical care.

Vaccination providers are required to report administered NIP and other relevant vaccines to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR), subject to applicable reporting rules. You can usually access your immunisation history through Medicare online services or myGov.

You may be charged for the privately supplied vaccine as well as any applicable consultation or administration fee. Please discuss the total expected cost with reception before receiving a privately funded vaccine and see our Fees page for practice consultation fees.

Travel vaccines and personalised travel advice are covered by our Travel Vaccinations service. Vaccine availability, prescription requirements and costs differ from routine NIP vaccines. Please arrange a travel consultation in advance.

Book a Standard Consultation (15 minutes) for travel vaccine advice and assessment. Let reception know your destination and departure date, as complex itineraries or several vaccines may require follow-up appointments.

Ideally book at least 6–8 weeks before departure, particularly if you need a vaccine series. If you are leaving sooner, book as soon as possible because some protection may still be achievable.

Recommendations depend on your destinations, itinerary, season, length of stay, accommodation, activities, previous vaccinations and medical history. Check the Vaccine Hub travel map before your appointment, then confirm the appropriate plan with your GP.

Vaccines supplied specifically for overseas travel are generally not provided free under government travel vaccination programs. A routine immunisation might nevertheless be funded if you independently meet National Immunisation Program or NSW eligibility criteria. Consultation charges and vaccine prices are separate.

See our Fees page under travel vaccinations for vaccine prices and consultation costs. Please confirm current availability and the total cost with reception before attending.

Not currently. We expect to offer yellow fever vaccination in the near future, but availability and authorisation must be confirmed with reception. For imminent travel, arrange vaccination through an approved yellow fever vaccination centre rather than relying on future availability.

Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry, including for travel from or transit through certain countries. Requirements vary and change. Yellow fever vaccination must be given at an approved centre to issue the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis.

Some vaccines can be given together, but others require more than one dose or specific intervals. Your GP will check timing, suitability, stock and whether follow-up appointments are needed.

Possibly. Visiting friends or relatives can involve substantial exposure to local infections, even if you know the destination well. Your GP can assess your itinerary and existing immunity.

Malaria prevention usually focuses on mosquito-bite precautions and sometimes prescription antimalarial medication rather than routine travel vaccination. Your GP can discuss appropriate prevention for your destinations.

Some vaccines, particularly live vaccines, may be unsuitable or require specialist assessment in pregnancy or immunosuppression. Tell your GP about pregnancy, plans to conceive, medicines and relevant health conditions before vaccination.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a quick test that records the electrical activity of your heart through adhesive electrodes placed on your skin.

Your GP may recommend an ECG when assessing palpitations, dizziness, fainting episodes, an irregular pulse, certain medication effects or other cardiac concerns. The need for testing depends on your symptoms and examination.

Select the appointment type ECG using our booking link. Our team performs the recording and arranges a cardiologist report. We also accept requests from external practitioners.

No. An ECG only detects electrical signals from your heart; it does not send electricity into your body. Removing adhesive stickers may cause minor discomfort or temporary skin irritation.

There is usually no special preparation. Wear clothing that allows access to your chest, bring a list of medications and any previous cardiac reports, and avoid applying heavy creams or oils to areas where electrodes will be attached.

Electrodes need contact with skin on the chest and limbs. You may be asked to adjust or remove upper-body clothing. Staff will explain the process and provide privacy and appropriate draping.

The recording itself takes only a few minutes, although attaching electrodes, preparing the skin and reviewing the findings take longer. Please book the dedicated ECG appointment using our online booking link.

Fasting is not usually required for a resting ECG. Do not stop prescribed medication unless your treating practitioner has advised you to do so.

Although the recording is completed at your appointment, it is sent to a cardiologist for a formal written report. Please allow time for reporting and follow-up with your treating or requesting practitioner; the report is included in the ECG fee.

No. A resting ECG captures a short period of your heart's electrical activity. Intermittent rhythm problems may not appear during the recording, and some heart conditions require other investigations.

No. A resting ECG records a brief snapshot of electrical activity. A Holter monitor records electrical activity over a longer period. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound that assesses heart structures and function.

The ECG costs $50 for Medicare card holders, including the cardiologist's written report. There is no Medicare rebate for this ECG fee, so the full $50 is payable. If you have questions about your applicable fee, please confirm with reception before booking. See our Fees page for more information.

Discuss the reason for testing when booking. Your GP must decide whether an ECG is clinically indicated and whether additional assessments, reports or fees are required.

Use our online booking link and select the appointment type Holter. Please arrange your availability for two practice visits: fitting and removal approximately 24 hours later. Reception can confirm the return time.

The total Holter monitoring fee is $70. There is no Medicare rebate for this fee. The charge includes fitting and removing the device and the cardiologist's written report.

Yes. We fit the ALTO Holter at your first visit. You wear it for 24 hours, including overnight, and return to DC Medical Centre approximately 24 hours later for staff to remove the device.

Yes. We accept Holter monitoring requests from external practitioners. Bring the request form to your fitting visit and provide the referring practitioner's details so the report can be forwarded appropriately.

A Holter monitor is a portable device that continuously records the electrical activity of your heart while you go about your normal daily routine. It can help detect rhythm changes not captured during a brief ECG.

ALTO is a small, lightweight, lead-free wearable monitor attached to the chest. Most people can continue ordinary daily activities while wearing it.

The ALTO monitor is shower-resistant, unlike some older Holter devices. Follow the fitting team's instructions for showering, and avoid swimming, bathing, submerging the device or loosening its attachment.

Yes. The monitor should remain attached during sleep so the full recording can be completed. Try not to dislodge the device.

You can mark an event on the ALTO device by double-tapping it when symptoms occur. You may also be asked to record the time, symptoms and activity in a diary to help the cardiologist interpret the recording.

Contact reception promptly for instructions. Avoid trying to repair or reposition the device yourself unless the fitting team has shown you how.

Shower before your visit, wear loose two-piece clothing and avoid lotions, oils or powders on the chest. Bring any referral and your medication list. Some skin preparation may be needed for secure attachment.

After the monitor is removed, the data is submitted for analysis and formal reporting by a cardiologist. Your treating or referring practitioner can review the completed report with you. Reporting time can vary, so confirm follow-up arrangements with the practice.

No. A Holter records heart rhythm during the monitored period and may not capture symptoms that happen less frequently. Your practitioner may recommend further tests based on your history and symptoms.

An ECG records a brief snapshot of heart electrical activity, whereas a Holter continuously records that activity across a longer period, typically 24 hours at our practice.

Seek emergency help by calling 000 for serious symptoms. A Holter monitor is a recording device, not an emergency alert or real-time monitoring service. Do not wait for the device to be removed or the report to be completed.

No. You can book directly with our nursing team for an ear syringing appointment.

The ear irrigation service costs $40. Please ask reception if other consultation or assessment fees could apply.

Our nursing team performs irrigation using the Projet 101 ear irrigator, after checking whether the procedure is suitable.

Softening drops may improve removal. Ask a pharmacist or clinician which product is suitable and follow its instructions. Do not use drops if you suspect a perforated eardrum unless a clinician advises you to.

You may feel water movement or pressure. Tell the nurse immediately if you experience pain, dizziness or discomfort.

Irrigation is often unsuitable if you have a perforated eardrum, grommets, certain previous ear surgeries, an active infection or other ear problems. Tell the nurse your history before treatment.

Not all wax can be removed safely in one visit. You may be advised to continue softening treatment, see a GP or seek specialist removal.

Possible complications include temporary dizziness, pain, ear canal irritation, infection, bleeding and, rarely, eardrum injury or hearing changes.

Avoid inserting cotton buds or other objects into your ear canal; they can push wax deeper or cause injury.

Book a GP assessment rather than assuming your ear is blocked by wax. Sudden hearing loss, severe pain, discharge or significant dizziness need prompt medical evaluation.

Select Iron Infusion using the online /book link.

The procedure fee is $180, excluding the medication that you must supply from your pharmacy.

Yes. Bring your practitioner's referral confirming indication, prescribed iron product and dose.

Bring recent full blood count, EUC and iron studies including ferritin, Hb, creatinine and eGFR.

Yes. Bring Ferinject, Monofer or the other iron preparation specifically prescribed for you, stored as directed.

IV iron requires an appropriate clinical indication supported by laboratory investigations. Iron overload and anaemia unrelated to iron deficiency can make it unsuitable.

Pregnancy (the example clinic referral specifies treatment only beyond 16 weeks' gestation, although your prescriber and our clinical team must assess suitability individually), and active infection require careful clinician review; treatment may be deferred.

Yes. Severe reactions are uncommon but potentially serious. Staff monitor you during treatment and for at least 30 minutes afterward.

Tell staff immediately about pain, swelling or burning around the cannula. Iron leakage may cause long-lasting skin staining.

Yes. Ferric carboxymaltose can cause hypophosphataemia, particularly with repeat doses or underlying risk factors. Discuss persistent fatigue, weakness or bone pain with a doctor.

Your prescriber will arrange follow-up blood tests based on your clinical situation, often in the following weeks.

Yes. Missing documents or medication, an unsafe clinical history or an unsuitable dose may mean the infusion cannot proceed.

Book a Standard Consultation (15 minutes), or a Video Consultation if clinically appropriate. An in-person examination may still be required.

A video consultation may be suitable if your GP can make an adequate clinical assessment. A certificate is not guaranteed, and the GP may require an in-person review.

No. We cannot backdate the date a certificate is issued. A GP may, at their clinical discretion, describe an earlier period of illness if there is adequate evidence; this is not guaranteed.

If your university requires its own form, download it from your university website and print it to bring to your appointment, or email it to reception@dcmedical.com.au in advance.

Not necessarily. Universities may require a specific template, supporting details or submission deadlines. Check your institution's instructions before your appointment.

Your GP can assess your health and decide whether a certificate confirming incapacity for work is appropriate. An appointment does not guarantee a certificate.

Your GP may assess whether supporting medical evidence for carer's leave is appropriate. Additional information or an examination of the person requiring care may be necessary.

Medical certificates generally need not disclose a detailed diagnosis without your consent. Your GP will provide clinically appropriate information while respecting your privacy.

Your GP determines the clinically supported period of incapacity. The length of a certificate cannot be guaranteed before an assessment.

Yes. Depending on your employment arrangements, your employer can request reasonable evidence for a single day or even part of a day of sick leave.

Standard consultation fees apply. See our Fees page for current rates; Medicare eligibility and the consultation type may affect rebates.

They may contact the practice to verify a document's authenticity, but medical information remains confidential and will not be shared without an appropriate basis or consent.

Choose a Standard Consultation (15 minutes), Long Consultation (30 minutes), or Video Consultation. Longer or complex concerns may require additional time or an in-person examination.

No. DC Medical Centre charges its standard private consultation fees. You pay the practice and then submit a claim to your OSHC insurer for any eligible benefit.

Yes. Our team can help you understand the claiming process and provide the receipt or supporting details you need. Your insurer decides the benefit and whether your claim is approved.

Reimbursement depends on your plan and the service billed. Basic OSHC generally provides a benefit towards eligible GP visits, but it may not cover our full private fee. Contact your insurer to confirm your benefit.

Most international students are not eligible for Medicare. Your OSHC membership details are generally used when you make a claim. Some students have additional Medicare eligibility through reciprocal arrangements.

Some eligible video consultations may be claimable, depending on the insurer, the service and any telehealth requirements. Confirm your cover with your OSHC provider before booking.

Bring your OSHC membership information or digital card, identification, relevant medical records, medication details and a payment method.

Basic OSHC commonly includes benefits towards GP consultations, eligible hospital services, ambulance and certain prescription medications. Your own policy determines exclusions, benefit limits and gap payments.

Some medically necessary pathology and imaging services may attract OSHC benefits. Check eligibility and any out-of-pocket costs directly with the test provider and your insurer.

Basic OSHC generally does not cover routine dental, optical or physiotherapy. Separate extras coverage may be available depending on your policy.

Contact the insurer and ask why. Our reception team can help identify the consultation receipt or service information needed, but cannot guarantee reimbursement or override insurer decisions.

Yes, subject to assessment. If your university requires its own template, download it from its website and bring a printed copy or email it to reception@dcmedical.com.au before your appointment.

Yes. Patients with valid reciprocal Medicare eligibility can choose the appointment appropriate to their health concern. We do not require a special reciprocal-healthcare appointment type.

At DC Medical Centre, people with a valid reciprocal Medicare card are treated under the same practice billing arrangements as other Medicare card holders, subject to the service being covered by their entitlement.

No. Residency, visas, length of stay and country-specific agreement conditions matter. Services Australia determines eligibility.

Generally no. Under the Irish agreement, the usual visitor entitlement is for eligible public hospital care and certain medicines rather than out-of-hospital GP Medicare benefits.

Temporary visitors generally do not receive a card under the New Zealand RHCA, and ordinary out-of-hospital GP care is not covered by that agreement. New Zealand citizens who meet separate Medicare enrolment rules may be eligible.

Visit the official Services Australia Medicare enrolment form (MS004) page and follow its instructions. Some applicants may be eligible to enrol online instead.

Do not assume it will renew automatically. Check the expiry date and arrange re-enrolment or an extension with Services Australia before your entitlement ends if you remain eligible. The MS004 process supports extensions and re-enrolment.

Contact Medicare on 132 011 to check the status. Processing may take time, or Services Australia may need further documents or clarification.

Depending on your agreement, Services Australia may require your passport, current visa, proof of overseas residence and insurance or other supporting documents.

No. RHCAs generally concern medically necessary treatment under the particular agreement. They do not automatically cover private hospital treatment, dental care, ambulance transport or planned treatment.

The agreements have specific time limits; for example, coverage for many eligible visitors from Italy or Malta is limited to six months after arrival. Check the applicable country guidance.

The practice may need to charge the applicable private fee without a Medicare rebate. Check eligibility with Services Australia and ask reception about fees.

Yes. You can take a valid imaging request to a diagnostic imaging provider of your choice, including one not named on the form, provided it offers the examination.

No. Imaging is performed by independent radiology providers. Our clinicians may issue clinically appropriate imaging requests and review results.

Each imaging provider sets its own prices and bulk-billing policies. Contact providers directly for an itemised quote and ask whether a Medicare rebate applies.

No. Medicare eligibility for MRI depends on the scan, clinical indication, requester, provider and equipment. Ask the radiology practice to confirm a rebate and out-of-pocket amount before booking.

We typically receive a report between the next day and five business days after imaging. This is an estimate, not a guaranteed timeframe.

When DC Medical Centre receives your report, we generally send a message asking you to book an appointment to discuss your results. Urgent findings may require a different response.

If you have not heard from us within one week after your imaging was completed, contact reception. We can follow up with the provider if your report has not arrived.

Yes, where a clinical review is indicated. Please follow the message from the practice to arrange the appropriate follow-up.

Preparation depends on the examination. Some ultrasounds or CT studies require fasting, drinking water or other steps. Follow the imaging provider's instructions.

Tell them about pregnancy or possible pregnancy, implants or pacemakers, kidney conditions, allergies, previous contrast reactions and relevant medicines, as applicable.

X-rays image structures using ionising radiation; ultrasound uses sound waves; CT produces detailed cross-sectional X-ray images; MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves.

Under Medicare diagnostic imaging request rules, requests generally do not expire before the service is performed, but the provider may need updated clinical information if circumstances have changed.

Absolutely. Our directory is for convenience only, not a preferred-provider or compulsory list. You can call around to compare location, appointments and prices.

No. Imaging providers independently manage their appointments, pricing, testing and report preparation. We can chase a missing report when notified.

No. DC Medical Centre does not charge you to complete our records request process. Your previous practice may have its own policies or charges for supplying records.

Complete our medical records transfer form using the link on this page. We then send a request to your previous practice on your behalf.

Normally, we will request your records once you submit the form. The previous provider might contact you to confirm consent or request further details.

Timing depends on how quickly your previous practice responds, whether consent and identification are complete, and the size of the file. We cannot guarantee a fixed timeframe.

The previous practice may provide an appropriate clinical summary or relevant records for continuity of care. If more information is needed, we can follow up with the provider.

Transfer information can include relevant medical history, current medicines, allergies, immunisations, recent test results and important clinical correspondence, depending on what your previous practice provides.

Where suitable secure clinical messaging or another secure transfer method is available, practices can share records electronically. Your previous practice determines its available methods.

Complete the form with the practice's former name and details, if known. We may need to identify the current custodian of the records before a request can progress.

A parent, guardian or authorised representative may be able to make a request, but authority and the patient's privacy rights must be verified. Additional consent may be required.

Yes. Please bring any medication list, recent results or important medical information you already have so your clinician can provide safe care while we wait.

Contact reception so we can check whether your request was received and, where appropriate, follow up with the previous practice.

No. My Health Record may hold useful shared documents, but it is not necessarily a complete copy of your previous GP's clinical record. A separate transfer may still be helpful.

No. We only consider continuation of existing ADHD treatment initiated by your treating specialist. We do not currently offer ADHD diagnosis or initiation of medication.

Book a Long Consultation (30 minutes), in person, for ADHD medication continuation. After the initial in-person review and any required approval, we recommend a Standard (15-minute) or Video (15-minute) Consultation for subsequent prescriptions. Telephone appointments are not suitable.

Ask your psychiatrist or treating specialist to address the shared-care or authorisation letter to your intended GP at DC Medical Centre. It should set out your diagnosis, medication, dose and ongoing management recommendations.

Possibly. Your GP will assess your history, specialist recommendations and monitoring requirements, and must obtain any individual NSW Health approval required before taking over treatment. Continuation is never guaranteed.

Where individual NSW Health approval is required, your GP submits an application through SafeScript NSW. The GP must also be clinically willing and appropriately authorised to continue prescribing.

Straightforward applications may take about 2–3 business days. New patients should allow up to one month for records review, clinical assessment and approval where required. These are estimates, not guaranteed processing times.

A Video Consultation may be used for subsequent prescriptions after the initial in-person assessment and any necessary approval, at the treating GP’s discretion. Telephone consultations and the routine telehealth repeat-prescription queue cannot be used for stimulant prescriptions.

Any change is subject to the GP's clinical judgement, the specialist's management plan and the applicable authorisation. More substantial changes may require a review by your treating specialist.

Bring the specialist letter addressed to your intended GP, diagnostic and treatment records, current medicines and doses, prescription history, and any relevant monitoring information.

Your GP may check blood pressure, pulse, weight, sleep, mental health, side effects and other clinical factors during treatment reviews.

No. Prescribing is at the GP's discretion and subject to regulatory requirements. If a prescription is issued, DC Medical Centre generally sends an electronic prescription token by SMS.

The fee depends on the consultation and your eligibility. Please check our Fees page and book a Long Consultation (30 minutes), in person.

Yes. DC Medical Centre sends a text message when we receive results for investigations requested by our practitioners, whether the results are normal or abnormal. The message invites you to book a follow-up consultation.

Blood test results typically take 2–5 days. Some specialised tests may take longer. If seven days have passed since collection and you have not received our text, please contact the practice.

Imaging reports typically take 3–7 days. If seven days have passed since the scan and you have not received our text, please contact the practice so we can follow up with the imaging provider.

No. We send text messages for both normal and abnormal results. The message is part of our standard results process and invites you to discuss the report with a practitioner.

Yes. The text message invites you to rebook either an in-person or telehealth consultation, depending on what is clinically appropriate.

You can join our telehealth queue and select ‘email’ as your preferred way to receive results. The practitioner will decide whether the report can safely be released without a consultation. If approved, we will email it to you.

Email reception@dcmedical.com.au to request copies of previous results held by DC Medical Centre. We will be happy to assist, subject to appropriate identity and privacy checks.

Our automatic results messaging process applies only to investigations requested by a DC Medical Centre practitioner. If another practitioner requested your test, please follow up with them. If you are moving practices, book an in-person consultation to discuss the results.

Please contact the practice if seven days have passed since your blood test or scan. A result may not have reached us and we may need to contact the pathology or imaging provider.

Reception can help locate or request results, but clinical interpretation and decisions about releasing a report without an appointment are made by the practitioner.

Do not delay seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen. For serious or life-threatening symptoms, call 000 or attend an emergency department.