For patients

You've been referred —
here's what happens next

You don't need to do anything right now. We'll contact you directly once we've reviewed your referral.

You need a referral from your GP or practice nurse

We can't accept self-referrals. Every patient must be referred by a GP or practice nurse before we can arrange an appointment.

Please don't phone us for an appointment

We review every referral in order of clinical priority, and we contact every patient once the cardiologists have decided which tests are appropriate. If your symptoms change or you're worried in the meantime, please speak to your GP.

Your journey

What to expect, step by step

Knowing what's coming makes the whole thing less daunting. Here's what happens, from referral to results.

  1. 1

    Your GP sends a referral

    Your GP or practice nurse writes to us with your symptoms and medical history. Nothing is needed from you at this stage.

  2. 2

    A cardiologist reviews your referral

    One of our cardiologists reads your referral, assesses how urgent it is, and decides which consultation or tests suit you best.

  3. 3

    We contact you directly

    We'll be in touch to arrange your next steps and let you know all the details of your appointment, including how to prepare. Depending on clinical priority, you may be placed on a waiting list rather than given a date straight away.

  4. 4

    Your appointments

    Your appointment or test will either be at our clinic in Richmond or at Nelson Hospital. Depending on your referral this may be a consultation, one or more tests, or both. You're welcome to bring someone with you.

  5. 5

    Your results

    We'll go through your results with you, either at the same visit or at a follow-up. A written report always goes to your GP.

Practical information

Before your appointment

What should I bring?

A list of your current medications, and any previous test results or ECGs you have.

Can I bring someone?

Yes, and we encourage it — a second pair of ears helps. Let us know when we book you in.

How long will it take?

A consultation usually takes 30–60 minutes. Some tests take longer — we'll tell you what to plan for.

Should I stop my medications?

No — keep taking everything as usual unless your GP or our team specifically tells you otherwise.

What should I wear?

Something comfortable. For an echocardiogram or treadmill test you may need to undress to the waist, so a loose top is easiest.

What will it cost?

It depends on your cover and which tests you need. We'll be clear about costs when we contact you to book.

Funding your care

Insurance and self-funding

However your care is funded, a referral from your GP or practice nurse is still required. We can't accept self-referrals.

We are a Southern Cross Affiliated Provider. If you're a Southern Cross member, we'll arrange your pre-approval for you.

If you have insurance

It's worth checking with your insurer that you're covered and have authorisation to see us. If you're with Southern Cross, just give us your policy number and we'll arrange your pre-approval for you.

If you're not covered by insurance

Many people self-fund a test such as a 24-hour ECG or echocardiogram for reassurance. We'll tell you what it costs upfront.

Common questions

Frequently asked

If your question isn't here, our team is happy to help.

Contact us
  • We contact every patient once their referral has been reviewed. If you're worried about a change in your health in the meantime, please contact your GP rather than the clinic.
  • Our cardiologists have different areas of expertise, so one may be better suited to your particular problem than another. That's usually what decides who you see. If you have a preference and it's appropriate for your condition, let us know when we contact you and we'll do our best to accommodate it.
  • For many follow-ups and results discussions, yes. Tests always need you to come in. All you need is a phone or a device with internet — no apps or special software. If travel is difficult, contact us to discuss options.
  • Always. We send a written report to your GP after every appointment — they remain your primary healthcare provider and we work alongside them.

Still have a question?

Our team is here to help with anything about your appointment, your tests, or getting here.

Contact us See our tests