Choosing a Specialist

Your GP will be able to recommend and refer you to a surgeon who can perform the procedure – either a general or colorectal surgeon.

You may be happy to accept the advice of your GP with regard to a specialist, or you may like to investigate your choices; either option is safe and valid.

In Australia, each medical speciality has a governing body to which the consultants belong. These are often good organisations to turn to for information about what you can expect from your medical specialist, and how to locate one in your area.

You can access the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons at surgeons.org, and the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australasia at cssanz.org.

Questions for your specialist may help you to understand your treatment, and, if necessary, decide on a doctor. Practical issues you may also like to consider are which hospital(s) a particular doctor operates from, and what their fees are.

To find out which surgeons participate in our Medicover no-gap or known-gap* arrangement:

*Participation in HCF’s medical gap initiative is at the doctor’s discretion. We can’t guarantee all doctors will participate in our gap arrangements for all members or services. Where you will incur any out-of-pocket costs the doctor(s) should advise you of these costs and obtain your consent to charge you so you can make an informed decision before going ahead with the procedure. Members are encouraged to confirm with their doctor(s) whether they will use HCF’s medical gap initiatives for their treatment.

questions for your specialist

Before opting for surgery get the facts about the procedure and what's right for you.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.