For Patients
For Patients
Everything you need to know before, during, and after your visit to Northern Eye Consultants.
Making an Appointment
To make an appointment with one of our specialist ophthalmologists, you will need a referral from your general practitioner (GP) or optometrist. This is required to access the Medicare rebate for your consultation.
Once you have your referral, please contact our reception team by phone or by completing the contact form on our website. Our staff will assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.
GP referrals are valid for 12 months from the date of issue for a single course of treatment.
Optometrist referrals are valid for 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
How long will I wait for an appointment?
Can I request a specific doctor?
Can I bring someone with me?
Is the practice accessible?
What to Bring
Your Referral Letter
From your GP or optometrist — you can also ask them to fax it to us in advance.
Medicare Card
Required for Medicare rebate processing.
Private Health Insurance Card
If applicable, for any in-hospital procedures.
Concession / DVA Card
If you hold a Healthcare Card, Pension Card, or DVA card, please bring it.
Glasses & Contact Lenses
Bring all your current glasses (reading and distance) and any contact lenses you wear.
Medication List
A current list of all medications, including eye drops, vitamins, and supplements.
Previous Eye Records
Any previous eye test results, OCT scans, or other eye records if available.
A Support Person
Recommended if you are having eye drops that dilate your pupils, as your ability to drive can be impacted for 4–6 hours afterward.
Your First Visit
Please allow at least 1–2 hours for your first visit, as a comprehensive initial eye assessment takes time. In many cases, your pupils will be dilated with eye drops to allow thorough examination of the back of your eye. Dilation lasts approximately 4–6 hours and will temporarily affect your near vision and make your eyes sensitive to light.
Arrival & Registration
Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete registration paperwork and provide your Medicare and referral details.
Preliminary Testing
Our ophthalmic nurses and orthoptists will perform a series of assessments including vision testing, eye pressure measurement, and imaging.
Dilation (if required)
Eye drops may be instilled to dilate your pupils for a thorough examination of the retina and optic nerve.
Consultation
Your ophthalmologist will review all test results, examine your eyes, and discuss findings, diagnosis, and any recommended treatment or ongoing management.
Next Steps
Our reception team will assist you with follow-up appointments, referrals, and any necessary arrangements before you leave.
Important: Driving after dilation
If you are having dilating eye drops, your ability to drive can be impacted for 4–6 hours afterward. It would be beneficial to arrange for someone to drive you home.
Fees & Billing
Our fees reflect the complexity and time involved in specialist ophthalmology consultations. We will always inform you of any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment. A gap fee (the difference between our fee and the Medicare rebate) may apply.
For some procedures and follow-up visits, bulk billing or reduced fees may apply. Please contact our reception team to discuss fees for your specific situation.
Consultation Fees
Out-of-pocket fees apply for most consultations. We will inform you of the expected gap at the time of booking.
Medicare Rebate
A Medicare rebate is available for eligible patients who hold a valid referral. Your rebate will be processed at the time of payment.
Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance may cover fees for in-hospital procedures. Please contact your insurer for details of your cover.
DVA Patients
We welcome DVA Gold and White card holders. Please advise our reception at the time of booking.
For all fee enquiries, please contact our reception on 03 9466 8822.
Privacy Policy
Northern Eye Consultants is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
We collect personal and health information to provide you with appropriate medical care. This includes your name, contact details, Medicare number, referral information, and clinical records relating to your eye health.
How we use your information
- To provide and manage your ophthalmic care
- To communicate with your referring doctor or optometrist
- For billing and Medicare claiming purposes
- To comply with legal and regulatory obligations
- For practice quality improvement activities
Accessing your records
You have the right to request access to your medical records held by our practice. Please contact our reception team to make such a request. Fees may apply for record retrieval.
Contact us about privacy
If you have any concerns about the handling of your personal information, please contact our Privacy Officer at the practice. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).