How long is the wait to see the eye doctor?
We can usually see you within a couple of weeks. Urgent appointments are also available on the day if your GP or optometrist specifically requests it.
Do I need a referral?
You need a current referral at the time of your consultation in order to receive your Medicare rebate. Referrals are usually valid for 12 months before a new referral is required. If you do not have a Medicare card, or you do not have a referral, the Doctor can still see you but you will not receive the Medicare rebate.
How much is the consultation, rebate etc?
We can provide a basic estimate before you have the consultation. However, there may be additional investigations that are required at the time of the consultation that will influence the final cost.
Where is surgery performed?
Some minor procedures are able to be carried out in our procedure room but the majority of procedures are done at Tweed Day Surgery in Boyd Street Tweed Heads -  https://tweeddaysurgery.com.au/
Do you have a public waiting list?

Our doctors do not do public waitlist surgery, however they are able to refer you to the public waitlist doctor

Where can I park?
There is all day parking along Scott Street.
How do I get there?

We are within walking distance of major bus stops in Coolangatta and Tweed Heads. If you are a Veteran and require transport please contact our reception staff who will be happy to assist in arranging Department of Veteran Affairs transport for you. Our reception staff are also happy to call a taxi or Community Transport for transport home for any patients requiring it.

Do you charge a Gap fee for surgery?
No. We charge no Gap fee. Gap is the fee that some surgeons charge you over and above what they receive from your health fund. The health fund generally agrees to pay a certain fee for a surgical procedure. Many surgeons charge a higher fee than what the health fund will reimburse, and this additional fee is called the Gap. It represents the gap between what your health fund is prepared to pay and what the surgeon charges. The patient has to pay the Gap. Our policy is to bill your health fund directly. We charge no Gap. You may have to pay an excess to your health fund depending on the policy, but this is an arrangement with your fund and the fee goes to the fund, not the surgeon.
Do I get any money back from Medicare or my health fund?
Medicare will normally provide a reimbursement. The extent of the reimbursement will increase if you have reached the Medicare safety net threshold. (link https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/medicare/medicare-safety-nets ) Health funds generally do not cover medical care that takes place in a doctor’s consulting rooms. They cover treatment provided in hospital and the details will depend on your fund and level of cover.
Is there a pensioner discount?
Yes, pensioners receive a discount.
Will the fee be the same for my next appointment?

Subsequent consultations (follow up visits) are charged less than initial consultations. However, the cost of the consultation will depend on any investigations that are required in your management. It is not possible to reliably anticipate what will be required at a follow up consultation.

Do you see children?

For minor conditions only. We are unable to operate on paediatric patients at the Tweed Day Surgery and are likely to refer you to another facility.

Do you have wheelchair access?

There is a 10 minute Drop off Zone right out the front of our building with a ramp directly from the footpath to reception.

Do use see wheelchair patients that do not transfer?

No, we do not have a hoist and without transferring the patient we are unable to perform a satisfactory assessment.

How long will I be here?

We suggest allowing at least one hour for your visit, which includes vision assessment and investigations before you see the doctor.  If a visual field test is required it may take longer.  We appreciated that everyone’s time is valuable and make every effort to minimise your time at our clinic, however, please be aware that urgent cases arise from time-to-time and may delay your appointment.

Will I be able to drive home?

During your visit your eyes may need to be dilated. If this does occur it is recommended that you do not drive for several hours after your appointment. Dilation will make your eyes light sensitive and your vision blurry. For this reason, it is a good idea to ask a family member or friend to accompany you to your appointment so you don’t have to drive. Our receptionists will be happy to organise a taxi to take you home. Public transport is also accessible with a two minute walk from the Eye Care Clinic.

Do you take cash or cheque?
Cash, cheque and Eftpos are all acceptable methods of payment.
Can I take the bill? Pay later?
We prefer payment on the day. There is also a same day discount.
Can I make a deposit directly into your account?
At present we do not have this facility.
Do you bulk bill?
We do not bulk bill.

Want to make an appointment or ask a question?

Get in touch with our friendly team