We understand that patients and referring doctors may have questions before attending an appointment or procedure. Below are answers to common enquiries about specialist care, referrals, billing, and what to expect.
Specialist Care
A gastroenterologist is a specialist physician trained in diagnosing and managing disorders of the digestive system and liver. This includes conditions affecting the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, liver and biliary system, and pancreas.
Gastroenterologists provide expert consultations, coordinate investigations, and perform advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as colonoscopy, gastroscopy, and capsule endoscopy.
A geriatrician is a specialist physician focused on the care of older adults, particularly those with complex or multiple medical conditions. Geriatricians aim to optimise health, independence, and quality of life through comprehensive geriatric assessment, medication review, memory and cognitive assessment, falls and frailty assessment, osteoporosis and chronic disease management, and care coordination across hospital, community, and aged care settings.
An Accredited Practising Dietitian provides evidence-based nutrition therapy to support medical treatment and long-term health outcomes. Dietitian consultations may help with gastrointestinal conditions, low FODMAP diet guidance, diabetes and cardiovascular health, weight management, and disordered eating and nutrition optimisation. Nutrition plans are individualised and aligned with your medical management.
Appointments & Referrals
Yes. We accept referred patients to ensure you are booked with the most appropriate specialist for your condition. A valid referral is required to access Medicare rebates for specialist consultations and procedures. Referrals may be provided by General Practitioners (GPs) or other medical specialists.
Under Medicare guidelines, GP referrals are typically valid for 12 months from the date of the first appointment. Specialist-to-specialist referrals are usually valid for 3 months unless otherwise specified. A new referral is required after expiry, if you are being seen for a new medical issue, or before repeat procedures if more than 12 months has passed.
Medicare provides a rebate for eligible specialist consultations and procedures when a valid referral is in place. The rebate does not cover the full consultation fee. Western Sydney Specialists operates as a private billing practice.
Our gastroenterologists offer No-Gap billing for all endoscopic procedures, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, haemorrhoid banding, ERCP, EUS, and EMR. If you have eligible private hospital cover, your procedure is typically fully covered under No-Gap arrangements, with specialist and anaesthetist fees billed directly to your health fund.
Procedures such as colonoscopy or gastroscopy are performed by experienced specialists using modern techniques. Typically you will receive preparation instructions prior, sedation is used for comfort, the specialist examines the digestive tract using a flexible camera, and biopsies or treatment may be performed during the same procedure if clinically indicated.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Your privacy is treated with the highest level of care and professionalism. Medical records are stored securely and managed according to Australian privacy legislation. Information is shared only with your referring doctor or other healthcare providers involved in your care, and only where appropriate. Your consent is obtained before sharing information whenever required.
More Information: Your first visit · Procedure preparation · Colonoscopy · Gastroscopy · Contact us.