FAQs
Hunter Valley Urology
Yes, it is highly recommended you have a current referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or another specialist.
A GP referral is preferred, as it allows us to communicate and coordinate your care with them. GP referrals are also valid for much longer (12 months) than specialist referrals (3 months), so even if you have a specialist referral, it is convenient to also obtain one from your GP.
A visit without a referral does not qualify for the medicare rebate and hinders communication and effective provision of care.
You will need to bring the following to your appointment:
- Your valid GP or specialist referral
- Medicare card and private health fund details
- DVA or pension card
- Imaging – X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans or MRIs
- Pathology – Blood or urine tests
- A list of your medications
- Hospital discharge summaries, if you were recently in hospital
After you have obtained your GP referral, please endeavour to make an appointment at your earliest convenience. We will do all we can to ensure you are seen promptly. If your condition is particularly urgent, Dr Beattie is happy to be contacted by your GP directly to discuss your care.
Please see our location information.
For hospital and parking information, please click on the links below to show you additional information for each of the hospitals:
When you make your appointment with our office, you will be quoted an estimation of fees which will be payable on the day of your appointment. The cost of the consultation may vary depending on whether the appointment is the initial consult or a follow up appointment.
A discount is available for pension card holders.
Dr Beattie operates at a number of public and private hospitals within the Hunter region. As such he is able to offer surgery within the public hospital system for patients without health insurance.
Dr Beattie will review your referral, and ask about your condition and general history, as well as review any imaging or pathology test results. You may be asked to undergo an examination. You may be required to have further tests arranged prior to any procedure.
Depending on your condition, you may be asked to have a full bladder on arrival, and be seen by our practice nurse prior to seeing Dr Beattie.
If you require an operation, Dr Beattie will explain your options and the risks involved. You will have time to ask any questions you may have.
You are welcome to bring family and friends to your appointment. Your medical history will be discussed, and a physical examination may be performed. If you are not comfortable with them being present for this, we request that you have them remain in the waiting room.
The hospital will be in contact with you to give specific instructions regarding fasting, and the time which you should arrive at the hospital.
If you are taking medications, particularly blood thinning or diabetic medications, or have other health issues, you may be required to see the pre-admission team and the anaesthetist prior to your operation, who will also give you instructions.
If you are having a procedure under general anaesthetic, and are not staying overnight in the hospital, for your own safety it is essential you have someone who can drive you home and stay with you overnight. If this is impossible to arrange, you must let us know prior, otherwise your procedure may be cancelled.
No, we do not offer telehealth consultations. In certain circumstances Dr Beattie may arrange to contact patients with their results.
Our office will be closed for Christmas this year from Saturday 14th December through to Sunday 5th January. Our first day back in the new year will be Monday 6th January 2025.
