Who is a Gastroenterologist?
A gastroenterologist is a physician who has specialized knowledge and skill regarding problems of the digestive system. Digestive organs include the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine and colon, as well as the liver, pancreas and gall bladder.
What are the common problems evaluated by a gastroenterologist?
Common conditions include:
What should I bring with me when I come for a scheduled office appointment?
- Medicare card or Veteran Affairs card
- Referral letter from your family doctor
- Private insurance details
Are my medical records kept private and confidential?
Your medical file is handled with the utmost respect for your privacy. Our staff are bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment. Personal information is handled in accordance with this practice's privacy policy and consistent with the privacy legislation. Ordinarily we will not release the contents of your medical file without your consent.
What should I expect during first visit?
At your first trip to the gastroenterologist, the doctor will ask you a series of questions regarding your symptoms. He may do a physical examination. He will then explain the possible causes of your symptoms and discuss specific investigations that you may need (such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy), and explain the possible risks involved. You will then have your investigations booked. After you have had the investigations, he will then discuss your diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What are the fees?
Dr. Lidums participates in the "gap cover" schemes of the private health funds. Therefore there is no gap charge. The only extra costs will be if you have an excess on your health fund policy. |
