Your First Visit

A prepared patient should consider the following points.

WHAT TO BRING

Things you need for an initial appointment include:

  • Family Medical History

  • Travel Plans

  • Medicare or DVA information

  • Private Insurance Details

  • Referral Letter

  • Medical History

  • Radiology & Pathology Reports

  • List of Medications & Allergies

APPOINTMENTS TIMING

Before you make an appointment please consider the following:

  • The best time to visit your gynaecologist is one week after your menstrual period as you may require a pap smear which cannot be obtained if you are menstruating. 

  • Avoid douching or using vaginal creams at least three days before your appointment.

  • It is important to be as relaxed as possible during any examination. Try taking deep slow breaths, relax and think of something pleasant. 

  • Prepare a list of questions you want to ask your doctor about your sexual and reproductive health. It’s easy to forget what you wanted to discuss once you are at the appointment.

Please plan your appointment appropriately or reschedule if necessary.

What happens during your first visit?

During your first visit you and Dr Cook will discuss general health, past history, family history, gynecologic history, sexual health, and lifestyle

It is important to be honest as it provides Dr Cook with valuable information needed to assess and properly treat you.

We want you to feel free to discuss openly any questions or voice any concerns you may have without reluctance or hesitation, as anything dealing with your health is of extreme importance.

The Pelvic Examination

Dr Cook may need to perform an examination. This may involve

  • breast examination to look for any abnormal masses or discharge

  • pelvic exam to assess for the presence of any abnormalities both externally and internally

How Long Will The Appointment Be?  

As a guide please consider the average duration as being:

  • Initial Consultation

  • Pap Smear

  • Follow Up Appointments

Can I bring a friend?

Dr Cook.

Can you arrange an interpreter?

An interpreter can arrange upon request, typically this is done online. Please let us know at the time of making the appointment

PAyment

Dr Cook's practice is a private service provider, this means typically payment in full is expected at the time of the appointment. Patients are then able to claim some of the fees back from Medicare if they have a referral letter.

A percentage of the fee may also be claimed from your private health insurance company. Please talk with our reception for further clarification of what is involved