An ophthalmologist specialises in diagnosing, managing and treating eye diseases, and is a qualified medical practitioner.
In order to have a consultation with an ophthalmologist, you will need to be referred by a GP or an optometrist.
An optometrist specialises in prescribing glasses and contact lenses, as well as screening for eye diseases, and can refer patients to an eye specialist/Ophthalmologist for further assessment and treatment.
As you may have dilating eye drops administered during your consultation, it is strongly recommended that you do not drive yourself home from your appointment with SA Eye Specialists.
This is because the effect of the eye drops can take up to two hours or more to wear off, and your vision may be affected until they do. It is also recommended that you bring a pair of sunglasses to wear on your way back home after your appointment.
As a paediatric eye specialists, our ophthalmologists will prescribe glasses for children who have been referred to us.
However, adults should consult with their optometrist to get a new or updated glasses prescription.
Consultations with SA Eye Specialists are not covered by private health insurance but part of the consultation fees will be covered by medicare.
If eye surgery is required, it is likely that your private health fund will cover the costs, although you may need to pay an excess depending on your fund and the level of coverage. Any fees that you are required to pay will be fully itemised and explained before you undergo any eye surgery procedure.
You will be required to pay the cost of your consultation or treatment in full at the time of your visit.
SA Eye Specialists will initiate and lodge your Medicare electronically on your behalf, and if you have registered your banking details with Medicare, your rebate will be transferred to your account within 48 hours.
For a complete assessment of your vision and eye concerns, your initial appointment may take up to two hours.
For any subsequent appointments, you will be advised at the time of booking as to how much time is expected to be required.
At your first SA Eye Specialist consultation, you will need to notify reception of your arrival and provide your contact information.
You will then meet with an orthoptist, nurse or ophthalmic assistant, who will undertake an initial assessment of your vision and eye pressure, and note the details of your medical history. These initial tests are to assist our ophthalmologists to have as full a picture of your vision and general health as possible.
You should bring the following with you to your first appointment with SA Eye Specialists:
Once you have obtained a referral from either your GP or optometrist, you should call our clinic (08) 8243 0900,
In order to best meet your needs, it is helpful if you can provide as much information as possible at the time of making your appointment. Once you have made an appointment, you will be sent a confirmation letter detailing how you can prepare and what you need to bring with you for your initial consultation.
All our Ophthalmologists consult as eye surgeons at public and private hospitals, as mentioned in their individual biographies.
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The team at SA Eye Specialsits are active members and fellows of multiple organisations including