We treat anyone with a finger, hand, wrist or arm injury, or a condition such as arthritis. Our patients range from toddlers to the elderly.
Here are some of the most common things we get asked. If you can’t find the question you’re looking for, please give us a call.
Who do you treat?
Do I need a referral to come to the Hand Therapy Centre?
I just need a splint, do I need to make an appointment?
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Is parking available at the clinic?
Can I claim on my private health insurance?
How long is a consultation?
What if my case is urgent?
Can I see a therapist closer to home?
Are you a NDIS registered provider?
Do I need a referral to come to the Hand Therapy Centre?
Private patients don’t need a referral to come and see us. However, post-surgical patients generally have a referral from their surgeon.
If you’re claiming through WorkCover, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) or the Enhanced Primary Care Plan, you’ll need a referral from your doctor. Please note that pre-approval of your consultation and/or treatment is generally required under WorkCover.
I just need a splint, do I need to make an appointment?
We do our best to accommodate patients on the day, but we do prefer it if you schedule an appointment. If your condition is urgent, please let reception know at the time of booking.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
- Your referral, x-rays, doctors’ reports, and other investigations that have been completed.
- Billing or claim details you may have, such as your WorkCover claim number or your Department of Veterans’ Affairs card.
Don’t remove any dressings or bandages applied during surgery, unless instructed to do so by your surgeon. If you get your dressings wet prior to your appointment with us, please call and we can arrange to see you sooner.
Is parking available at the clinic?
New Lambton
Parking is available for $3 per hour in the car park outside the Newcastle Private Medical Suites. There’s also paid car parking available in NPH and Car Park 6 of the John Hunter Hospital. Both are just a short walk away.
East Maitland
There’s parking at the rear of the clinic via Myra Street. Victoria Street train station is only a short walk away.
Can I claim on my private health insurance?
Yes. If you have Extras Cover, your appointment is claimable under occupational therapy or physiotherapy, depending on the therapist you see. The rebate you receive depends on your level of cover. We offer HICAPS for on-the-spot claims.
Splints can’t be claimed on HICAPS. However, if custom made, we can provide you with a letter for your health fund.
How long is a consultation?
Initial consultations are booked in for 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your injury. Post-operative consultations, where possible, are booked during your surgeon’s clinic time. This helps improve communication during the rehabilitation process.
The frequency of your appointments will depend on several things. These include how far away you live, whether you have a splint or wound that needs reviewing, your injury, and how well you’re progressing.
What if my case is urgent?
If your referral is urgent, please notify reception when you’re booking your appointment. Generally, urgent cases are related to significant ligament injuries.
Can I see a therapist closer to home?
Because our clinic services a large regional area, we have offices in both Newcastle and East Maitland. If you live outside of the Hunter, we’ll do our best to find an experienced hand therapist closer to home and liaise with them to provide a smooth transition.
Are you a NDIS registered provider?
No, we are currently not registered under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.