Your Visit and FAQs
Please refer to News for updated instructions regarding Consultations and more.
What you need to bring
- Medicare card and Private health insurance information
- DVA card (Gold card) or Pension card
- Referral Letter from your GP or specialist
- Bring completed information form for you and your partner (if fertility referral)
- List of medications and allergies
- Relevant test results including pap smears, blood tests and ultrasound scans.
Please note that we prefer to perform our own ultrasound examinations as we are a specialist gynaecological ultrasound practice.
Your Referral
Your referral is essential if you wish to obtain the full specialist rebate from Medicare. A GP referral is valid for 12 months unless written by another specialist when it is only valid for 3 months. We will make every effort to keep you up to date with the status of your referral but would like you to recognize that it is your responsibility to ensure you have a valid and current referral.
When is the clinic open?
Surgery Hours:
Mon-Wed 9:00am-5:00pm
Thu-Fri 9:00am-2.30pm
Sat-Sun Closed
Mon-Wed 9:00am-5:00pm
Thu-Fri 9:00am-2.30pm
Sat-Sun Closed
How do I make an appointment?
Appointments can be made by calling 02 49573899
How long are the appointments?
Appointment times vary.
Initial consultation = 45 min
Follow up consultation = 30 mins
Does the practice Bulk Bill?
Our practice does not Bulk Bill. Payment options can be discussed when making your appointment.
What hospital does Dr Raymond operate at?
Dr Raymond operates at Newcastle Private Hospital, New Lambton Heights.
What happens if I have a problem after the surgery?
All patients booked for surgery have a preoperative visit with our practice nurse. She will cover a number of possible problems and advise how to avoid those in the first place. She also provides written information for your post operative care. We always encourage patients to call during office hours so that they can be promptly advised and seen if necessary.
What do I do if I need medical care after hours?
After hours medical care is always available to Dr Raymond’s current private patients, including post-operative patients. Contact details are provided prior to surgery and prior to discharge from hospital.
Does the clinic have availability for urgent appointments?
Yes, our clinic will always accommodate Doctors requests for all urgent appointments. It is best to have your GP or referring specialist fax an urgent referral or call Dr Raymond.
Does the practice have a reminder system for appointments?
Yes, a text message reminder will be sent 5 days prior to your appointment.
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash, Eftpos, Mastercard and Visa
Who do I contact if I have a complaint?
Complaints can be directed to Dr Steve Raymond either via email at reception@steveraymond.com.au, or with the Feedback Forms available in the waiting room.
What type of surgery does Dr Raymond perform?
Dr Raymond is a highly experienced advanced laparoscopic (keyhole) and vaginal surgeon. His main interest is laparoscopic surgery for Endometriosis, but he operates for all non cancerous gynaecological conditions.
Do you have same day appointments?
Same day appointments are not available however all urgent appointments will be considered.
How do patients receive their test results?
Results are usually discussed at a follow up consultation . All other tests results will be reported to the patient by our Practice Nurse.
What do I do if I need to ask Dr Raymond a question?
Dr Raymond will always make time to answer any urgent questions. Contact the reception staff on ph 4957 3899 or email reception@steveraymond.com.au All non-urgent queries can be managed by our Practice Nurse or discussed at your next consultation.
Does Dr Raymond do Skype or Facetime consultations?
Dr Raymond can do Skype of Facetime consultations for interstate or remote patients. Please call the practice on 02 4957 3899 to discuss.
Does the practice send reminders for Pap smears and Mirena IUCDs?
Yes, the practice will send reminders for repeat Pap Smears and Mirena IUCD replacement.
What if I have my period on the day of my appointment?
Most appointments and examinations will not be affected by the onset of bleeding. An exception to this would be a Pap Smear. If you are concerned call the office to see if your appointment needs to be rescheduled. Please be assured that such situations will be catered for in a sensitive manner.