Your Appointment

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What to expect at your initial appointment

At your appointment, an orthoptist will conduct various tests including checking your vision and eye pressure, sometimes taking photos, before you see the doctor. Eye drops will usually be administered to check your eye pressure or dilate your pupils.

A consultation can take up to 1 to 2 hours depending on the tests required and how busy the clinic is on the day.  

What to bring to your appointment?

  • You need a referral from your GP or optometrist to enable you to claim a rebate from Medicare. A referral is usually valid for 12 months.

  • Your distance and reading glasses, your last prescription report from your optometrist if you have one.

  • List of your medication and medical history.

  • List of previous eye history including the dates of any laser or surgery.

Driving after your appointment

Most patients will have a dilated exam with drops, so it is recommended that you are accompanied by a family member or friend, as driving is not recommended after dilation. We have on-site parking available for patients and this area can be used for the pick-up/drop-offs of patients.

Patient Feedback

We are keen to hear your feedback about any aspect of your care. Please use the feedback form in the waiting room or discuss with your doctors.

 Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my appointment take? +

Please be aware that you should allow 1-2 hours for your appointments with Dr Ye Chen. Most patients will have a dilated exam with drops so it is recommended that you are accompanied by a family member or friend, as driving is not recommended after dilation.

What should I bring to my initial appointment? +

Please bring the following items to your initial appointment:

  • A valid referral from your GP or optometrist
  • Your Medicare Card
  • Any current prescription glasses and/or contact lenses

Do I need a referral? +

Please make sure you have a valid referral letter addressed to Dr Ye Chen from your GP, optometrist, or another pphthalmologist/ specialist. To receive a Medicare rebate, covering part of the cost of your consultation and treatment, you need to have a valid referral from a doctor or an optometrist. If you are not eligible for Medicare, or do not wish to receive a Medicare rebate then a referral is not necessary.

How will I be billed? +

All payments are settled on the day of your appointment.

Consultations, tests & minor procedures:

Our billing is based on the services provided. Consultations, additional tests and procedures are billed separately. For most items, there is a Medicare rebate, covering part of the fee. Payment is expected in full, on the day of the appointment.

To be able to receive your Medicare rebate you have to present a valid referral from a doctor or an optometrist. Some items are not covered by Medicare.

Hospital based surgery:

If you undergo a surgical procedure in a hospital theatre, you may be billed for that through your health fund if you have private health insurance, or directly if you don't. In some cases, there are gaps between the health fund payment and the anaesthetist’s & surgeon's fees. We will inform you of the estimated costs prior to undertaking any hospital procedures.

What is your cancellation policy?

If an appointment is missed, cancelled or changed without 24 hour notice, you may be charged $50 cancellation fee.