What happens once I send my referral into Ambulatory Care?
Once we receive your referral ( whether by email, fax, hand delivered or e-referral) we will register this into our system as received. It is then screened by our Senior Nursing team to ensure it is allocated to the most appropriate clinic, and then triaged by the appropriate Consultant. Once it has been accepted it is then given a level of urgency, we call these Category 1 ( to be seen within 30 days), Category 2 ( to be seen within 90 days) and Category 3 ( to be seen within 365 days). We will then let you know the outcome of this either by phone or by letter. This normally takes up to 2 weeks so please allow time for us to process before calling.
If the referral does not meet the criteria for the clinic then it will be returned to your GP with a request for further information, and you will also receive a letter notifying you of this.
How long should I allow for my appointment?
We recommend that you put aside at least 3-4 hours for your appointment, we will do our best to minimise the wait but plan for the full 4 hours.
What do I do if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
Please call the clinic number listed above as soon as you can to update your appointment, as this will allow us to support another patient in this time slot.
What if I have COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms?
Patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 may still be able to attend their appointment if there is clinical urgency, however, please call the Ambulatory Care Centre to check before you attend. This is to ensure the clinic can take appropriate precauations. If your appointment is not urgent, we will reschedule for you to a more suitable date post infection.
Can transport be organised?
Royal North Shore does not have transport options but we encourage you to discuss these needs with your referring practitioner
What if I need a wheelchair when I arrive?
Please ask the main reception of the hospital as you enter the main doors if a wheelchair is needed and they will organise this for you.
Is there a cost?
There is no cost for Medicare patients, if you do not have Medicare a charge will be applied to your appointment that will need to be paid at time of appointment
What if I am on a waiting list and I get worse?
If your symptoms worse and you are concerned, please seek advice from your GP who will send a new referral if needed with the updated information for us to retriage
Can I bring a carer with me to the appointment?
Yes you can.
What if I need an interpreter?
Please let us know at time of booking, if you would like to add an interpreter to your booking please call the clinic number and this can be booked for you.
I am having my appointment via Telehealth and I cant find the link that was sent to me?
Please call the clinic and they can resend for you so that you can attend your appointment online.
