Frequently Asked Questions

An Ophthalmologist is an eye specialist (specialist doctor) who specialises in diagnosis and surgical or medical treatment of diseases of the eye. Ophthalmology training equips eye specialists to provide the full spectrum of eye care, including the prescription of glasses and contact lenses, medical treatment and complex microsurgery.

In Australia and New Zealand, an ophthalmologist is required to have undertaken a minimum of 12 years of training, including:

• 5 years at a medical school, graduating with a degree in medicine,
• 2 years (minimum) as a newly qualified doctor undertaking basic medical training,
• 5 years of ophthalmic specialist training and successful completion of examinations set by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).

To see an eye specialist at Wollongong Eye Specialists Centre, all you need to do is call 02 4227 6388 and make an appointment. Please remember that you will require a referral from your Optometrist or General Practitioner. You or your referrer may send this referral to us prior to the day of your appointment by:

Email: reception@wescentre.com.au

Postal: PO Box 5488, Wollongong NSW 2520

Fax to: 02 4227 6399

The time of your examination will depend on the condition of your eye but it would be wise to allow at least 90 minutes for your appointment.

• A referral letter from your GP or Optometrist. In order to receive a rebate from Medicare you must bring a current referral. Referrals usually last for 12 months if from a GP /Optometrist or 3 months if from a Specialist Doctor
• Your current glasses (even if you don't feel they are beneficial)
• Medicare card, Pension Card (if you have one) or DVA card (if you have one)
• Details of any medications you take either prescription or over the counter
• Details of any previous eye conditions or eye operations you may have had
• Sunglasses, as you will be sensitive to light after dilating eye drops have been used

• It is a good idea to get another person that can drive to come with you to the appointment as your vision may be a bit blurry and you will be sensitive to the sunlight so you may not be able to drive yourself home after the appointment
• If you wear contact lenses please bring your contact lens case and some solution to put them in as you will need to remove them for the exam and also bring your glasses
• For patients who are coming for Cataracts or refractive surgery please do NOT wear contact lenses for at least a week prior to the appointment

If you experience sudden increase in floaters or flashes or these symptoms increase quite suddenly, then you should consult our eye specialist to ensure that you do not have a serious eye problem.

Pull your lower lid down to make a pocket for the drop and then squeeze the bottle gently to release the required number of drops ensuring that the bottle does not touch your lower lid or eye. Close your eyes without squeezing them and keep them closed for around 30 seconds to allow the medication to stay in contact with the eye for longer. Lightly blot any excess medication away with a clean tissue while your eyes are shut.

Yes, South Coast Eye Specialists do participate in Medicare. Our receptionists will endeavour to inform you of any costs associated with any procedure you might be required to undertake at the time of booking your appointment.

Yes, you can find a copy of a form on our website by clicking here. You may print a copy of this form, complete it and bring it with you. Alternatively, you can fill the form when you arrive to see your eye specialist.