Your Initial Appointment
Welcome to Hunter Coast Dermatology & Laser
If it is your first time visiting us at HCDL, welcome! We’re looking forward to helping you find tailored solutions for your skin concerns. Here are a few tips for your first visit with us…
How you can see us
Like most visits to see a specialist, you may be given a referral by a doctor indicating that you should see us.
You do not need a referral to see our specialists, however, a referral may enable you to claim a Medicare rebate after your visit. We recommend that you bring a copy of your referral with you on the day of your appointment so that we can process the Medicare rebate for you.
On the day of your appointment
To streamline your appointment, please bring a list of any medications you take and skin care products that you use, to allow us to provide you with the most appropriate care.
You may also like to bring the products you use to your appointment, or take photographs of cosmetics and skincare products that you use on the area of concern.
During your appointment
Consultation
At your appointment, our dermatologists will meet with you to discuss your skin concerns with you.
It is helpful for you to bring a brief timeline of your symptoms, including when symptoms first appeared, any times they have changed, and any times you have used a product or treatment on the area of concern.
It is also helpful to bring dated photographs of your skin concerns to your appointment, particularly if changes have occurred between when the photograph was taken and the time of your appointment.
Examination
To help you find a solution for your skin concerns, our dermatologists will conduct an examination. Depending on the condition and the location, this examination could involve the local area of your skin concern, or it may require a full skin examination (full skin check).
Please dress in loose comfortable clothing that is easy to remove, to ensure that the examination process can be made as smooth as possible.
Please avoid wearing makeup that covers the area of concern, so our dermatologists can conduct an appropriate examination. If you choose to wear makeup to your appointment, please be aware that it may be removed during the examination.
Tests & Screening
During your appointment, your dermatologist may need to conduct some tests. These may include:
Biopsies
Skin swabs
Scrapings of the lesion
Nail clippings
Hair pull and other tests as indicated
Please be aware that tests may incur an extra charge for the additional work of the pathology laboratory.
Prior to your visit with us, or during your consultation, you may be informed that surgery is required to best manage your condition. If urgent surgery is required, please inform the administration staff during the booking process so we can provide the best possible care. We advise that you request a quote upon booking if you require surgery.
Photography
Our dermatologists will often use photographs to document the problem(s), and may request to take photos during your appointment. These photos remain confidential between you and your dermatologist. Should you have any concerns about this process, your dermatologist would be happy to clarify these with you during your appointment. Link to Photography page.
Fees & Payments
As a private medical practice, we do not bulk bill. Payment is required on the day of your consultation/procedure. Additional procedures usually incur an additional charge. Lower rates are available patients with a pension card. Medicare provides a rebate for medical services and you need a valid referral to claim your rebate. If you require frequent medical care, outside of a hospital setting, we recommend you apply for the Medicare Safety Net.
Cancellation Policy
SMS reminders are sent prior to your appointment. Please respond YES or NO to the reminders.
Late cancellations or non-attendance will incur a fee. Patients who no longer require their appointment are kindly requested to cancel with a minimum of 24 hours notice.
Thank you for your understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Dermatologist?
Dermatologists are specialists of the skin, hair and nails. They have completed their medical training and then further specialist training with the Australasian College of Dermatologists (a Government approved provider of such specialist training).
What is the difference between a Hunter Coast Dermatology and a skin cancer clinic?
Dermatologists are extensively trained and highly skilled in the detection and management of melanoma and non melanoma skin cancers. After completing a University degree in Medicine, it takes an additional 8 years to become a Dermatologist. Dermatologists can only practice after they complete their training and pass rigorous examinations by the Australasian College of Dermatologists.
Skin cancer clinics are private centres run by non-specialist Doctors, who have not completed this training or the associated examinations. At HCDL, you will be seen by a Dermatologist for your skin checks and the management of any skin cancers.
Do I need a referral to see a Dermatologist?
You do not have to bring a referral to see a Dermatologist, however a referral is necessary to claim medicare rebates for your consultation and procedures. It also provides the Dermatologist with an avenue for clear communication between your Primary Doctor and Specialist.
You do not need a referral for a cosmetic consultation as there are no medicare rebates for most cosmetic procedures
How long does my referral last?
Your referral will last 12 months if it is from a General Practitioner.
Your referral will last 3 months if it from a Specialist
Where are you located?
HCDL is conveniently located at 95 Pacific Highway Charlestown, opposite Charlestown Square. We have lift access to our suite on Level 3.
If you are travelling by Public Transport, the closest train station is Cardiff station, where you may board a bus that will take you to Charlestown. Charlestown is a transport hub for buses.
Use the Transportnsw.info or Newcastletransport.info website to plan your trip.
Free on-site car parking is available for patients of HCDL.
Is there parking available at the rooms?
There is free undercover parking located within our building for HCDL patients. This parking is accessed from Frederick Street, just off the Pacific Highway. Follow the sign ‘Patient Parking for Hunter Coast Dermatology & Laser’. This will take you up a ramp and you may park in one of the car parks provided. A lift from the car park will take you directly to level 3, where you will find the practice.
Alternatively, free timed, street parking is available along-side the building and nearby streets. Charlestown Square is a large shopping centre conveniently located around 250m from our building and has undercover parking.
What is your cancellation policy?
SMS reminders are sent prior to your appointment. Please respond YES or NO to the reminders.
Late cancellations or non-attendance will incur a fee. Patients who no longer require their appointment are kindly requested to cancel with a minimum of 24 hours notice.
Thank you for your understanding.