Sydney Pain Clinic / For patients

Your first pain specialist appointment

A little preparation can make your first consultation easier. Use this guide to organise your questions, check the costs and confirm where you will be seen.

Do I need a referral?

For self-funded patients, a referral is needed only if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate under Services Australia’s rules. At Sydney Pain Clinic, all patients using third-party funding—including workers compensation (WorkCover), CTP/TAC, DVA and ADF—must supply a referral to attend under these arrangements.

Further reading: Services Australia — referrals for specialist treatment

How do I check consultation fees and rebates?

Call 02 8866 1393 or send an appointment enquiry before booking. Ask for the consultation fee, any expected Medicare rebate and the amount you would pay yourself. A consultation and a later procedure may have different costs.

What should I have ready for my first visit?

Once your booking is made, we will send a confirmation email. Please complete the intake form before your first visit. Its straightforward, guided questions help us prepare for an effective assessment and management plan. Have the following information ready for your appointment.

  • Your referral (if applicable), relevant investigation reports and previous specialist correspondence.
  • A current medicine list, including doses, allergies and any treatment you have already tried.
  • A short account of how pain affects your daily activities, sleep and work, and the goals you want to discuss.
  • The questions you want answered, plus any communication, interpreter or access needs.

Further reading: NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation — referral guide to chronic pain services

Which clinic will I attend?

Sydney Pain Clinic has consulting locations at Potts Point, Chatswood, Burwood and Westmead. Tell the team your preference and check your appointment confirmation for the clinician, exact address, time and arrival instructions. Contact the clinic before travelling if you need information about access.

Does a consultation include a procedure?

An appointment enquiry does not book a procedure. Assessment and treatment planning are individual. If a procedure is discussed, ask about its benefits, risks, alternatives, separate costs and where it would take place. Follow the treating team's specific preparation and travel instructions; do not assume that a procedure is performed at your consulting address.

When is my appointment confirmed?

Your appointment can be confirmed on the same day during a phone call with our staff. We will send a confirmation email once the booking is made.

Consulting locations

Check your appointment address

Your next step

Confirm the details

Our team can discuss the clinician, location and arrangements for your enquiry. An online enquiry does not confirm a booking.

Enquire about an appointment