An Orthopaedic surgeon is a specialist medical practitioner that treats disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This includes both surgical and non-surgical treatment.

Orthopaedic surgeons undergo extensive training totalling approximately 17 years in order to be qualified. They are registered as specialists with AHRPA and are fellows of both the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS) and the Australian Orthopaedic Assosciation (AOA)

Prior to seeing Dr Spelman you must obtain a referral from your GP. This is to ensure that all correspondence and ongoing management can be managed in a collaborative format, improving your outcomes. This will also allow you to claim the medicare rebate available for specialist appointments.

You will need to bring all available radiology scans (x-rays, CT or MRI) as well as any relevant blood tests to your appointment.

Your initial consult will typically be a 15-30 minute appointment depending on the complexity of your condition. Dr Spelman will take a detailed history, followed by clinical examination and review of all relevant investigations.

After this Dr Spelman will explain your diagnosis in detail and answer any of your questions. there may be additional referrals or scans required and these will be organised on the day.

Private health insurance in Australia is complex. There are a multitude of different providers who all have varying levels of cover available.

Private health care does not cover the cost of seeing a surgeon. If you require surgery then the private health insurer will cover a portion of Dr Spelman's fee and the Anaesthetist's fee. The insurer will cover the cost of you hospital stay as well as implants required for the surgery.

It is your responsibility to confirm with your health insurer if your surgery is covered under your current plan, and to obtain a quote from your insurer for out of pocket costs.

Surgery can be a daunting experience. Dr Spelman's staff will guide you through the process of getting ready for surgery including the paperwork, liaising with private health insurance, and arranging admission times for hospital.

For information specific to your surgery please see the patient information page or ask Dr Spelman directly.