Your first appointment

First: the referral

You need a current referral from your GP (12 months) or a specialist (3 months) to claim Medicare rebates for your consultation. Your GP can address it to Dr Rob Cooper. If you do not have one yet, you can still send an appointment request and the team will guide you; the referral just needs to arrive before your visit.

What to bring

• Your referral letter (if it has not already been sent to us)
• All imaging of the joint: X-rays, MRI, CT or ultrasound, with the reports. Recent imaging within the last 12 months is ideal; films on a disc or an online imaging link both work
• Medicare card, and private health fund / DVA / claim details if relevant
• A list of your medications and allergies
• Relevant letters or operation notes from previous specialists
• Shorts or loose clothing so the joint can be examined properly
• A support person is always welcome

What happens during the visit

New appointments run about 30 minutes; reviews about 15. We go through your story properly, examine the joint, and look at your imaging together on screen so you can see what I see. You leave with a diagnosis in plain English and a plan, which frequently does not involve surgery. If further imaging is needed, we organise it and follow up.

Fees + rebates

Consultation fees are confirmed when you book, and payment is taken on the day with Medicare rebates processed on the spot. [Fee schedule and payment methods TBC with the rooms.] If you are claiming through workers compensation, CTP or DVA, bring your claim and insurer details so billing goes to the right place.

Finding us

The map and address for Westmead Private Hospital are on the appointments page. Running late or need to reschedule? Just call; the team will sort it out.