Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A current referral addressed to our rooms, or to one of our specialists by name, is required before an appointment can be arranged. A valid referral is also required for a Medicare rebate on specialist consultations.
What is an infectious diseases physician?
An infectious diseases physician is a specialist physician who has completed general physician training and then advanced training in infection, holding Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. They assess and manage infections that are complex, severe, recurrent, caused by resistant organisms, or occurring in patients whose immune system is compromised. They also advise on the safe and effective use of antibiotics.
How is that different from seeing my GP?
Your GP manages the great majority of infections, and most people never need to see an infectious diseases physician. Referral becomes useful when the diagnosis is unclear, when standard treatment has not worked, when an organism is resistant, when a prosthesis or implanted device is involved, or when an infection keeps returning.
Where will I be seen?
Consultations take place at the Mater Private Hospital Gold Coast Specialist Suites, Ground Floor, 14 Hill Street, Southport. Our physicians also see inpatients referred within Gold Coast hospitals.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring your referral, your Medicare card and any private health fund details, a list of your current medications, details of any antibiotic allergies and what happened when you reacted, and copies or details of recent blood tests, swab or culture results, and imaging.
What happens at the first appointment?
The physician will take a detailed history, examine you, and review your previous results. Further tests are often needed before treatment can be finalised — a precise microbiological diagnosis is central to treating infection well. You will be given a plan, and your referring doctor will receive a letter.
Do you see children?
No. Our physicians see adult patients. Children should be referred to a paediatric infectious diseases service.
How long will treatment last?
This varies considerably. Some infections are treated in days, while bone, joint and endocardial infections often require weeks to months of therapy. Your physician will discuss the expected duration and the plan for review.
What are the fees?
Fees vary by appointment type and by physician. Please contact our rooms on 07 5530 0770 for current fee information and an estimate of any out-of-pocket cost before your appointment.
I think I have a serious infection right now — what should I do?
This website is not a substitute for urgent care. If you are unwell with a high fever, confusion, a rapidly spreading or severely painful area of skin, or you feel very unwell, go to an emergency department or call 000.