What to expect at your consultation

When you come to see one of the Ophthalmologists at Chatswood Eye Specialists, you will initially be seen by an Orthoptist. An Orthoptist is a health care professional with university training specifically of the eye.

Your medical history

The Orthoptist will take a history from you, to ascertain any problems or concerns.  As part of this history taking they will also ask for a list of your current medications, any allergies to medication and family history of eye problems such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataract, strabismus, diabetes, melanoma, etc.

It is helpful if patients have checked with their blood relatives (parents, grandparents, siblings, uncles, aunts, cousins) prior to their appointment to see if they have had any previous eye problems as many eye conditions have a genetic  component to them.

Vision testing

Next your vision for both distance and reading will be check, so it is advisable for you to bring all currently glasses with you to your examination, followed by specific test depending on your presenting concern and consultation with the Ophthalmologist you are going to be examined by.  These include:

Having your pressures checked – which is a test for glaucoma.

Your eyes dilated – to enable the retina to be check for macular degeneration and retinal tears amongst other problems.  These drops will make your vision blurry for approximately 2 hours following your consultation and it is advisable for you to bring your sunglasses with you to help you cope with this afterwards.  Some patients prefer to either come by public transport or have a family member or friend drive them to their appointment.

Visual field tests – tests for visual field changes related to either glaucoma or neurological concerns.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – this test is used for looking in detail at the macula for any changes that can be caused by macula denegation, diabetic changes, macula hole and many other problems.  This test can also be used to examine the optic nerve as part of a glaucoma assessment.

Photos – often photos are taken to document the current status of your eye condition to allow for future comparison.  This is particular important with lesions, such as moles or naevus, of the eye, but can also be used to document changes with diabetes and glaucomatous changes to the optic nerve.

Once these initial tests have been performed you will then be seen by the Ophthalmologist.  Once the Ophthalmologist has examined you, often further tests and procedures are required.

We suggest that patients allow approximately 2 hours for their consultation.

Other information

Fees
We are a private medical clinic and therefore do not bulk bill. Full payment is expected at the time of your consultation or procedure. For your convenience payment can be made by Visa and Mastercard (preferred), or in special circumstances, cash. We can submit the Medicare claim online on your behalf providing your have a valid referral at the time of your appointment. Medicare may not provide a rebate for all services performed.

Additional Costs
Additional cost may arise if other tests or services are performed at the time of your consultation such a visual field tests, OCTs, photos, laser or minor procedures. These are in addition to the consultation fee. Those that are eligible for Medicare rebate will be submitted as part of your claim.
Pathology: Any pathology is sent away to third party companies and as such are billed directly to you from these companies such as Douglas Hanly Moir, Laverty or Histopath.

Private Health Insurance
Australian private health insurance usually don’t cover consulting fees at private specialist rooms. You can use this if you require any day surgery.

Cancellations
We have an extensive waiting list of patients waiting to be seen by the Ophthalmologists and in consideration for our other patients who may have an urgent need, if you wish to cancel or reschedule we kindly request that you provide us with at least 24 hour notice.

What to bring with you

• Referral letter
• Medicare card
• Pension or Veterans Affairs card (DVA) if applicable
• List of medications
• Glasses (both distance/driving and reading) or contact lenses (please bring a case for these)
• Sunglasses

Consultation duration

We suggest that patients allow approximately 2 hours for their consultation. Please note your eyes may require dilation, in which case it is not safe to drive immediately afterwards due to blurred vision and alternate travel arrangements may need to be made or you may enjoy a cuppa nearby.

Make an appointment

We are open Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm.

To make an appointment, please contact reception on (02) 9411 5000 during office hours.

NOTE: we are unable to take appointment bookings via email.