Patients

Each patient and procedure is unique. The information provided is a general guideline only. You will be provided with detailed instructions during your consultation if surgery is required.

• A valid referral from a GP or other medical practitioner
• Please know the relevant provider of radiology scans such as MRI, CT, x-rays or etc. We will need to ensure your doctor can view this online.
• A list of medications
• Method of payment

Medicare rebates apply to most consultations and some procedures. Where possible, rebates are processed electronically on your behalf.

At One Brain and Spine, we believe in clear, upfront communication about all fees. Our team will guide you through costs, rebates, and insurance coverage so you always know what to expect.

Consultation Fees

• Consultation fees are confirmed at the time of booking.
• Full payment is required on the day of your appointment.
• Medicare rebates apply if you have a valid Medicare card and referral.
• Pension card holders receive a discounted consultation fee.
• Private health insurance does not contribute to consultation fees.

Current Consultation Fees

• Initial consultation: $400
  
  • Extended consultation: $500‍
  • Medicare rebate applies with a valid referral‍
• Review consultation: $280 ‍
  
  • Medicare rebate applies with a valid referral

Payment methods accepted: EFTPOS, credit card, or cash.

* Please note fees may be subject to change. Private health funds do not contribute to consultation fees.

If you hold private hospital cover, please check the level of your private cover.  Your insurer may contribute to the cost of your surgery, hospital stay, and related services. We can provide item numbers and written estimates to help you confirm your level of cover.

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For detailed information about surgical fees for private patients, please contact One Brain and Spine directly.

Our surgeons typically follow the AMA schedule of fees. The exact out-of-pocket cost depends on:

• The type of surgery
• The complexity of the procedure

Payment is required prior to surgery.

One Brain and Spine surgeons generally do not participate in “no-gap” or “known-gap” schemes.

Hospital Excess

Your private health insurer may require you to pay an excess when you are admitted to hospital.

There may also be additional out of pocket costs during the hospital admission for anaesthetic, radiology, pathology and/or pharmacy services.

WorkCover and TAC Patients

• Some, but not all, One Brain and Spine surgeons accept WorkCover and TAC patients.
• Patients are required to pay the consultation fees on the day of review.  You will be provided with a receipt which can be submitted to WorkCover/TAC.
• All procedures must be approved by the relevant authority before surgery can be booked.
• Up-front payment on the day of surgery may apply, with reimbursement claimed directly from WorkCover or TAC.
• Once approved, patients generally do not have out-of-pocket costs.

DVA Patients

Patients covered under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs do not pay out-of-pocket fees for approved procedures.

Self-Funded Patients

One Brain and Spine welcomes self-funded patients who do not have private health insurance. If you choose to proceed without insurance, we will provide a clear, itemised quote that outlines all expected costs — including surgical fees, anaesthetic fees, hospital charges, and any equipment or implant costs. This ensures you have a full understanding of the total cost before making any decisions. Our team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way.

*Please note not all patients will quality for self-funded surgery

• Personal items including clothing, toiletries, shoes, glasses and chargers for your devices
• Please leave your valuables, like jewellery, at home
• Radiology scans (X-ray, MRI, CT scan) if instructed by your doctor

You will receive detailed instructions before your operation, which will include admission time and location within the hospital.

As a general rule, you will be required to fast (not eat or drink anything) for a least 6 hours before the surgery. Specific fasting instruction will be provided when surgery is booked.‍

In most cases blood thinning medications such as Warfarin, Plavix and Eliquis will need to be stopped before surgery. When you stop this medication will depend on its indication, the type of surgery you are having and the specific medication. If you are on blood thinning medication please make sure your doctor and the rooms are aware of this. You will be provided with information regarding medication cessation at the time of surgery booking.

There are several other medications that may need to be ceased prior to surgery. If these are identified during consultation with your doctor, you may be required to see a perioperative physician prior to surgery.

The duration varies depending on the procedure and your personal needs. On average:

• Brain tumour surgery: 3-5 days
• Brain aneurysm surgery: 3-5 days
• Brain AVM surgery: 5-7 days
• Cerebral bypass surgery: 3-5 days
• Microvascular decompression (trigeminal neuralgia): 2-3 days
• Microdiscectomy: 1-2 days
• Laminectomy: 2-5 days
• Anterior cervical fusion: 1-2 days
• Lumbar fusion: 2-5 days
• Pituitary tumour surgery:
• Carpal tunnel or ulnar nerve decompression: day case

Following surgery, you will receive clear guidance on:

• Pain management
• Wound care and dressing changes
• Activity restrictions and safe movement
• Physiotherapy or rehabilitation
• Return-to-work and driving timelines
• Follow-up appointments

Your doctor will discuss expected recovery milestones and answer any questions you may have.

Our doctors work in a multidisciplinary environment. They will see you regularly during your admission. A perioperative physician will also be involved in your care to oversee medication management and any other medical issues that may arise. Other specialists are available within the hospital if required.

A team of allied health professionals are available to assist in your recovery following surgery.

A post-operative pain management regime will be decided upon by your doctor, the anaesthetist and the perioperative physician in consultation with you.

When it’s time for discharge home, the hospital's pharmacist will provide you with the necessary medications.

There will be a post-operative appointment 4-6 weeks after surgery. You will be provided with these details when your surgery is booked. If you don’t have an appointment by your discharge date, please contact the One Brain and Spine office to arrange this.