Your Rheumatology Visit at BJC Health
To help you prepare for your first visit...
Questions to ask your Rheumatologist
Are there lifestyle measures I can institute?
Apart from medications, what else can I do to improve how I'm feeling?
How do I prevent damage to my joints?
What can I do to remain active and doing as much as I can?
Can you help me understand the pro's and con's of different treatment options that are available?
If there are medications that might help me, are there any side effects I should know about?
How do I obtain a referral?
A valid referral is required to consult with one of our Rheumatologists in order to be eligible for a Medicare rebate. A referral for a Rheumatologist can be obtained from your GP or from another specialist. A referral from a GP is valid for 12 months and a referral from a specialist is valid for 3 months.
If you have not already sent or uploaded your referral please forward a copy to doctor@bjchealth.com.au prior to your appointment.
A referral is not needed to see any of the Allied Health team.
Where do I park when I arrive?
Chatswood
- Paid street parking is available on Help Street and other surrounding streets. Please note that parking inspectors patrol the streets regularly.
- There are also many parking stations in the vicinity.
- If you are willing to walk 10 to 15 minutes, Westfield parking is now 2 to 4 hours free. They request you download an app to get the extra hours.
Parramatta
- Paid parking is available on Hunter Street and other surrounding streets. Please note that parking inspectors patrol the streets regularly.
- There is also the Justice Precinct Car Park which is directly across the road from the clinic. Click here for a full list of prices.
- If you are willing to walk 10 to 15 minutes, 3 hours free parking is available at Westfield Parramatta.
Do I need to be on time?
- Please be on time. We pride ourselves on being punctual but this only works if our patients arrive on time as well.
- Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your initial appointment to fill out any necessary paperwork.
- Should you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please inform us at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment.
- We deliver a professional service and respect your rights, dignity, privacy, feelings and cultural customs.
What do I bring to my appointment?
-
Your referral letter.
-
Any relevant X-rays and scans
-
Any relevant blood tests if available
-
Medicare card (Pensioner or Repatriation Card if applicable)
-
Claim number & details for Workers Compensation and Third Party claims
-
List of medications
-
Your Private health insurance card which will help process HICAPS claims and allow you to claim your rebate immediately.